DPA Microphones 2011C Compact Twin Diaphragm Cardioid Mic

The DPA 2011C Compact Twin Diaphragm Cardioid Microphone is a high performance directional condenser mic that delivers exceptional clarity, impressive SPL handling and a natural, musical tone in a compact format. Bridging the gap between DPA pencil condensers and their renowned lavalier range, it is ideal for engineers who need premium sound quality in tight spaces on stage, in the studio or on location.

At the heart of the 2011C is DPA’s Twin Diaphragm capsule technology, which offers a well balanced, detailed sound with excellent off axis rejection. Whether you are close miking drums, guitar amps, brass, strings or using it as a spot mic in an orchestral setup, the 2011C maintains focus and definition while keeping spill under control. Its compact body makes placement straightforward, even in dense setups or discreet live sound applications.

Engineered to withstand extremely high sound pressure levels with very low distortion, the 2011C is built for demanding professional use. It handles peaks up to 153 dB SPL, with a wide dynamic range and low self noise, so you can capture everything from delicate nuances to aggressive transients without the mic folding under pressure. The cardioid pattern and carefully tuned frequency response give a natural, open sound that sits easily in a mix with minimal EQ.

With a robust, matte black finish and standard XLR connectivity, the 2011C integrates seamlessly into any professional signal chain. It is powered via standard 48 V phantom power and uses DPA’s Active Drive output stage for excellent common mode rejection and stable performance over long cable runs, making it a reliable choice for touring rigs, broadcast environments and studio installations alike.

Twin Diaphragm Clarity

The 2011C uses a pre polarised condenser capsule with DPA’s Twin Diaphragm design to deliver a clear, balanced and highly detailed sound. This technology captures the nuance and character of the source while keeping the tonality smooth and natural, so instruments sound like themselves without harshness or hype.

Compact, Easy Placement

With a slim 19 mm diameter and short body length, the 2011C is easy to position in tight spaces on crowded stages, drum kits or orchestral pits. The compact format helps you find the sweet spot quickly, even when stands and hardware are competing for space around the source.

Handles Extreme SPL

Capable of handling up to 153 dB SPL peak with low distortion, the 2011C is perfectly suited to loud sources such as snare drums, toms, brass sections and guitar cabinets. You can place it confidently close to the source and still retain punch, definition and transient detail without unwanted breakup.

Low Noise, Wide Dynamic Range

With a typical self noise of just 20 dB(A) and a dynamic range of around 117 dB, the 2011C captures both quiet passages and powerful peaks cleanly. This wide operating window makes it versatile across many applications, from subtle acoustic instruments to high energy live sound reinforcement.

• Twin Diaphragm Cardioid Capsule - The pre polarised Twin Diaphragm condenser capsule delivers a well balanced, detailed cardioid response that bridges the sonic character of DPA’s pencil and lavalier microphones, giving you natural, musical results on a wide range of sources.
• Compact Pencil Style Housing - A slim 19 mm diameter and compact length make the 2011C easy to position where space is limited, allowing precise placement on drums, amps, acoustic instruments and in complex live or studio setups.
• High SPL Handling with Low Distortion - With less than 1 percent THD at 134 dB SPL RMS and a maximum SPL of 153 dB peak, the 2011C can cope with very loud sources while maintaining clarity, punch and transient accuracy.
• Active Drive Balanced Output - The impedance balanced Active Drive output and > 60 dB common mode rejection ensure stable performance over long cable runs, reduced interference and reliable integration into professional phantom powered XLR based systems.

General

• Microphone Type: Pre polarised condenser
• Capsule: Twin Diaphragm
• Directional Pattern: Cardioid
• Principle of Operation: Pressure gradient with interference tube
• Colour: Matte black

Audio Performance

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Effective Frequency Range (±2 dB, at 30 cm): 50 Hz - 17 kHz with 3 dB soft boost at 12 kHz
• Sensitivity (nominal, ±2 dB at 1 kHz): 10 mV/Pa; -40 dB re. 1 V/Pa
• Equivalent Noise Level, A weighted: Typical 20 dB(A) re. 20 µPa (max. 23 dB(A))
• Equivalent Noise Level, ITU R BS.468 4: Typical 33 dB (max. 36 dB)
• THD: < 1 percent at 134 dB SPL RMS, 137 dB SPL peak
• Dynamic Range: Typical 117 dB
• Max SPL (THD 10 percent): 153 dB SPL peak
• Maximum Output Voltage, RMS: > 5 V
• Switchable Attenuator: 0 dB / -20 dB

Connectivity and Power

• Connector: XLR 3M (Pin 1 shield, Pin 2 signal + phase, Pin 3 - phase)
• Rated Output Impedance: 200 Ω
• Cable Drive Capability: 100 m (328 ft)
• Output Balance Principle: Impedance balancing with Active Drive
• Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR): > 60 dB
• Power Supply: P48 phantom power (for full performance)
• Current Consumption: 2.8 mA
• Polarity: +V at pin 2 for positive sound pressure

Physical

• Weight: 164 g (5.8 oz)
• Microphone Diameter: 19 mm (0.75 in)
• Microphone Length: 198 mm (7.8 in)
• Temperature Range: -40°C to 45°C (-40°F to 113°F)
• Relative Humidity: Up to 90 percent
• Sensitivity Selection Tolerance (at 1 kHz): ±1.5 dB