DPA 4488 CORE Directional Headset Microphone

Product overview

The DPA 4488 CORE is a directional (cardioid) headset microphone that combines DPA's renowned 5 mm capsule with CORE by DPA technology and a secure, durable and flexible one-size-fits-all headset, for theatre, broadcast, house of worship and conferencing.

It offers an open and natural sound, ideal for both spoken word and vocal performance, with excellent off-axis rejection in high-SPL situations. It efficiently suppresses distant sound sources, which makes it perfect for demanding live performance environments where background noise and feedback are concerns.

The bass response is designed for optimal linearity at 2 to 3 cm (1 in) from the sound source, so the bass roll-off becomes relatively prominent at a greater distance: a paramount factor in rejecting background noise and avoiding feedback.

The 4488 CORE combines DPA's well-known 5 mm cardioid capsule with CORE by DPA technology and is offered with the MicroDot connector for use with DPA adapters, or terminated terminated in 3-pin LEMO, TA4F Mini-XLR or Mini-Jack, in black, brown or beige.

Key features

• CORE by DPA technology with DPA's well-known 5 mm cardioid capsule
• Excellent off-axis rejection: suppresses distant sources, background noise and feedback
• Bass response optimised for 2 to 3 cm from the mouth
• One size fits all head sizes and shapes
• Comfortable 3-point grip: above, below and behind the ear
• Easily adjustable frame size, boom length and placement
• 90° adjustable cable guide keeps the cable out of sight
• Non-reflective PVD surface on headset frame, boom and capsule
• MicroDot connector, or 3-pin LEMO, TA4F Mini-XLR and Mini-Jack terminations

Headset construction

The stainless steel frame has a thin, extremely durable Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coating that tolerates high temperatures and resists impact and abrasion, with a simple adjustment mechanism for quick resizing. The 3-point ear grip adds a support area behind the ear, so the headset sits securely even in jostling situations and stays comfortable over long periods. The headset can also be customised on site to suit individual performers.

The 2-way boom extends, shortens and pivots up and down at a fixed point below the ear, so it reaches the corner of the smile without bending. An anti-rotating shape and a sliding lock hold it in place, and the boom can be moved from the right to the left side. A service connector at the end of the boom pole lets boom and cable be replaced independently.

The cable guide at the back of the frame slides from side to side, out of camera view, and keeps the cable free of boom movement. The Ø 1.6 mm cable is extremely rugged, does not tangle and has an aramid-reinforced inner core. Cable, capsule and boom design ensure immunity to noisy wireless devices.

Made for

• Live vocal performance
• Spoken word
• Theatre and broadcast
• House of worship and conferencing
• Loud stages where background noise and feedback are concerns

In the box

• 4488 CORE directional headset microphone with the chosen termination

DPA 4488 CORE: frequently asked questions

Where should the 4488 be placed?

Because of its directional characteristics, placement is essential: the low-frequency level changes with the distance to the mouth. Mount the microphone 2 to 3 cm (1 in) from the corner of the mouth for optimal sound quality.

Why choose a directional headset?

The 4488 efficiently suppresses distant sound sources and gives excellent off-axis rejection in high-SPL situations, which helps against background noise and feedback on demanding live stages.

Can it handle loud singing?

Yes. The 4488 CORE handles 134 dB SPL RMS at under 1 % THD and 144 dB SPL peak maximum.

Will it fit every performer?

The one-size-fits-all frame adjusts quickly, the 3-point ear grip holds it securely, and the boom can be moved to either side.

Which connectors are available?

The MicroDot connector for use with DPA adapters, or terminated in 3-pin LEMO, TA4F Mini-XLR or Mini-Jack.

Where can I buy the DPA 4488 CORE in India?

The DPA 4488 CORE is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Live vocal performance

Live sound teams on loud stages with monitors.

Connections

Setup

1. Expand the frame, place it on the head and adjust it to size.
2. Set the boom so the capsule sits 2 to 3 cm from the corner of the mouth.
3. Route the cable through the 90° cable guide down the performer's back.
4. Connect to the transmitter and set the gain for full singing level.

Tip: The bass roll-off at greater distance helps reject background noise and avoid feedback.

Workflow 2: Theatre musicals

Theatre sound teams miking performers who speak and sing.

Connections

Setup

1. Choose the colour that suits the performer.
2. Fit the headset and lock the boom position with the sliding lock.
3. Check the sound for both dialogue and songs.

Tip: Excellent off-axis rejection in high-SPL situations.

Workflow 3: House of worship

Worship teams with speakers and worship leaders near loudspeakers.

Connections

Setup

1. Fit the one-size-fits-all frame.
2. Place the capsule 2 to 3 cm from the corner of the mouth.
3. Raise the gain step by step while listening for feedback.

Tip: The directional capsule efficiently suppresses distant sound sources.

Workflow 4: Broadcast and conferencing

Broadcast and event teams miking presenters.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the MicroDot connector to the DPA XLR adapter.
2. Switch on P48 phantom power at the input.
3. Slide the cable guide away from the camera and set the gain.

Tip: Cable runs up to 300 m are possible with the XLR adapter.

Workflow 5: Switching the boom side

Technicians preparing headsets for different performers.

Connections

Setup

1. Detach the boom pole from the ear grip by gently pulling it down.
2. Move the cable to the other side of the cable guide.
3. Reattach the boom on the other side until it clicks.
4. Release the sliding lock, turn the boom pole 180° and lock it again.

Tip: Check the 2 - 3 cm distance to the mouth again after moving the boom.

Workflow 6: Service and long-term care

Rental houses and venues maintaining headset stocks.

Connections

Setup

1. Slide back the plastic cover of the service connector at the end of the boom pole.
2. Replace the boom or the cable independently if needed.
3. Slide the cover back over the gold-plated contacts.

Tip: The PVD-coated stainless steel frame resists impact and abrasion.