The sE Electronics DynaCaster DCM8 is a front-addressed cardioid dynamic microphone for broadcast and studio work. It has a built-in DYNAMITE preamp, and its capsule is based on sE's V Series dynamic mics. It suits podcasters, streamers and broadcasters, and also vocal and instrument recording.
-
Built-in DYNAMITE preamp: switch it in for +30 dB of clean gain from 48V phantom power, or leave it off to run the mic fully passive
-
Six tone settings: two recessed switches give separate low and high trims, from bass cut to presence boost
-
Internal shock absorption: a patented system inside the body, so no external shockmount is needed
-
Three-layer pop filter: removable for cleaning, with a black external windscreen in the box
-
Integrated mount: a wide swivel range, with the XLR socket in the mounting point for tidy cabling
-
All-metal build: heavily shielded against electrical interference, with a gold-plated XLR connector
The onboard preamp addresses a familiar problem with dynamic broadcast mics: interface and mixer preamps can get noisy when you turn them up high. sE recommends keeping the DYNAMITE stage on whenever phantom power is available. Switch it off only if the input still clips with the gain at minimum. The preamp needs 48V phantom power over an XLR-to-XLR cable, because phantom power does not pass through TRS.
The low trim switch is flat in its centre position. Pushed down, it reduces boominess and proximity effect when you work close to the mic. Pushed up, it adds a slight low boost. The high trim is flat in its down position, adds a slight high boost in the centre and lifts the presence range in the up position. Together they let you match the mic to different voices and sources without reaching for EQ.
The XLR socket sits in the mounting point, which keeps the mic low-profile on camera and the cable out of the way. sE says it fits broadcast boom arms. The DCM8 is not limited to speech: it also works on singing, acoustic instruments and guitar amps.