Ljones has started using the 4088 traditionally used as a headset mic for vocal applications - for his fiddle when playing live with the Andreas Skeie Ljones band, but turning the microphone boom around so that it points towards the instrument. He has found its cardioid characteristics mean the mic is much less sensitive to feedback when sharing a stage with other amplified instruments, and it can be used with his wireless transmitter to allow free movement on stage.
"I achieved some great results during tests of the 4088 with DPA's Norwegian distributor Lyd-Systemer, and this has become my favourite performing microphone ever since," he says. "The 4088 is specially designed for singing and speech and is usually pointed towards the mouth, so I had to make some simple adjustments, turning it towards the violin instead. I always use it with the foam windscreen to protect my violin and to avoid picking up breathing sounds. This is the best microphone on the market for bands striving for a natural sound, who at the same time want the instrument to be heard above others on stage. I have also used it on the flute with great results, and believe it's the perfect solution for other soloists such as clarinet, oboe, sax, etc."
Ljones also uses a DPA 4021 compact cardioid mic with the VH4000 microphone holder for violins, and has just ordered a second 4021 with stereo mount. "This is the best mic ever made for an acoustic string instrument, and as it can't be used with wireless equipment it's perfect for when I don't need to run around on stage." he enthuses. "When I want a perfect recording of my violins, a string quartet or a small choir I use both my 4021s with DPA's stereo holder to get the perfect balance. We also use the 4021s to record samples for Andreas Ljones Band compositions. For large-scale samples, such as a church organ or an orchestra, we borrow a pair of 4006s omnidirectional mics, which are next on my DPA shopping list!"
(Lee Baldock)
