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An introduction to Universal Audio SP-1 Pencil Microphones Standard Pair, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Record instruments and live performances in stereo with pristine fidelity using our SP-1 pair, a classic small-diaphragm condenser set featuring Hemisphere mic modeling
— Universal Audio official site
What is SP-1 Pencil Microphones Standard Pair?
The SP-1 is a matched pair of small-diaphragm (pencil-style) condenser microphones from Universal Audio, made for stereo recording. It is aimed at sources where you want to capture the room and the instrument together, such as acoustic guitar, piano, drum overheads, percussion and horns.
The headline feature is Hemisphere mic modeling. With the included Hemisphere Mic Collection software, the capsule's sound can be switched among five characters modeled on well-known small-diaphragm condensers from AKG and Neumann. UA says it uses the same family of technology as its Sphere microphones.
UA describes the modeling as going beyond simple EQ curves: filter, proximity and axis (the angle to the source) can all be adjusted. The idea is that you can try a different texture after recording without buying more microphones.
UA states that the SP-1 pair and the software work with or without UA hardware, so owners of other interfaces can use them too. The body has a retro finish, and the company describes the build as road-worthy for both stage and studio.
Matched stereo pair
Two small-diaphragm condensers arrive together with a stereo T-bar and stand mounts, so you can try coincident or spaced stereo setups right away.
Five microphone models
Hemisphere includes the SD-54, SD-56, SD-84, SD-86 and SD-451 models, each based on a small-diaphragm condenser from AKG or Neumann according to UA. This may help when you want to compare textures on the same performance.
Filter, proximity and axis control
According to UA, the modeling covers filtering, proximity effect and off-axis behavior as well as tone. After placing the mics, you can fine-tune the result in the software.
High SPL handling
The maximum SPL is listed as 142 dB SPL at 1% THD, a spec that suits loud placements such as drum overheads or near a snare.
Works without UA hardware
UA says the pair and software work with or without UA hardware. Plug them into any interface's XLR inputs with 48 V phantom power to start recording.
Small and light
The spec sheet lists about 125 g and 128 mm by 23.5 mm per mic, which may suit carrying to gigs or placing in tight rooms.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Small-diaphragm condenser (pair) |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency range | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | -38.0 (12.6 mV) ref 1 V at 1 Pa, 1 kHz |
| Output impedance | 200 ohms |
| Recommended load | Greater than 2 kohms |
| Output connector | 3-pin XLR male |
| Max SPL | 142 dB SPL (1% THD) |
| Phantom power | 48 VDC |
| Dimensions | 128 mm long, 23.5 mm diameter |
| Weight | approx. 125 g each |
What is included and system requirements
- Two SP-1 microphones
- Two mic stand mounts
- Stereo T-bar
- Two foam windscreens
- Two 5/8-inch to 3/8-inch thread adapters
- Hemisphere Mic Collection software (described as included on the official page)
How to use it
- Mount the two mics on the stand mounts or the stereo T-bar and place them in front of the source.
- Connect each mic with an XLR cable to two mic inputs on your audio interface.
- Turn on 48 V phantom power on the interface.
- Match the two input levels and set gain so the signal does not clip.
- Insert the Hemisphere plug-in on the recorded tracks and choose a mic model.
- Adjust filter, proximity and axis settings while listening.
- If needed, move the mics slightly and compare the models again.
Acoustic guitar or piano
It may suit recording the whole resonance of an instrument in stereo. You could also switch mic models after recording to find the texture that fits the song.
Drum overheads
Its high SPL rating and small body may make it practical above cymbals, and a stereo pair gives a base for a wide drum image.
Percussion and horns at home
It may be worth trying for hand percussion or horns recorded in stereo together with some of the room.
Taking it to a gig
Being light and described as road-worthy, it may also work for recording small live venues.
Who it may suit
- People who record instruments in stereo often and do not want to keep buying extra mics.
- Owners of any interface (not only UA) who want to try small-diaphragm condensers.
- Those recording drums, guitar or piano who want room to change the tone afterward.
- Anyone looking for a light, rugged small-diaphragm pair for both stage and home.
Good to know before you buy
- 48 V phantom power is required, so you need an interface with two mic inputs.
- The modeling depends on the Hemisphere software; check UA's current page for supported systems.
- This is a two-mic Standard Pair, not a single-mic purchase.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See SP-1 Pencil Microphones Standard Pair on the product page
Sources: uaudio.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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