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Mods for the SP1

  • OktavaModOktavaMod
    Michael Joly’s “Hidden ‘84 Mod” alters the SP1’s stock capsule mounting and grille to reduce diffraction and “eshiness,” removes two layers of headbasket screening to reduce muddying reflections, and upgrades key electronic components. Results include tighter, deeper bass, reduced midrange phase shift, improved HF and transient response.
  • Audio UpgradesAudio Upgrades
    Jim Williams’ mod for the SP1 upgrades most of the components in the audio path, including the FET, resulting in a significantly-improved LF response (down to 20 Hz), cleaner highs, and more open, clear sound throughout the mic’s frequency range.

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CardioidMCA SP1

Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Although billed as a large-diaphragm microphone, the SP1 has a small-diaphragm capsule — in fact, the same capsule as the MXL 603 pencil condenser. It is a no-frills, Chinese-made microphone that performs exceptionally well despite its ~$40 street price and “stylish” blister packaging.

MCA SP-1 Circuit BoardMCA SP-1 Circuit Board

The strength of this mic is twofold: one, the small-diameter capsule is considered to be excellent, with smooth midrange and an extended but not peaky high end. It was modeled after the Neumann KM-84 capsule. The same capsule turns up in the Nady SCM-800, the MXL 603S, and MXL 990. In both the SP1 and 990, the capsule is mounted within a brass baffle ring (which affects the cardioid pattern).

Second, the transformerless amplifier circuit is a good copy of an excellent Schoeps design, and is built with discrete components (see images).

It is a favorite of mic designer Terry Setter; see his review from Tape Op in the sidebar. It is also a favorite modding platform for pro modders and hobbyists alike; see the list of mods in the sidebar.

The schematic for another mod can be found in the “micbuilders” group on Yahoo; see the “GenChinaMod.pdf” file in the Zapnspark folder. (You would need to join the group to access this file.)

The MCA SP1 is also known as: SP-1.

Specifications

Frequency Response - CardioidClick Graph to Compare!
SP1 Cardioid Frequency Response Chart
Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Cardioid (n/a mV/Pa; 30 - 20,000 Hz)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Diaphragm diameter: 16.75mm
Capsule diameter: 20.5mm
 200 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 135 dB
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
n/a n/a n/a
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Requires phantom power
  • Phantom voltage: 48v

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