The DPA d:facto 4018V Handheld Condenser Microphone delivers true studio-quality vocal performance on stage, combining DPA’s world-renowned condenser capsule technology with the reliability and control demanded by live sound professionals.
Built around the highly regarded 4018 capsule, the d:facto 4018V or "Softboost" microphone offers exceptional clarity, natural vocal presence, and outstanding consistency from whisper-quiet passages to powerful, high-SPL performances. It’s a microphone designed for artists and engineers who refuse to compromise between sonic accuracy and stage-ready durability. The 4018V is referred to as the "Softboost" Microphone because of it's presence lift allowing vocals to cut through a mix. Featuring a supercardioid pickup pattern, the 4018V provides excellent isolation and high gain before feedback, making it ideal for loud stages, in-ear monitor setups, and demanding touring environments. Its linear off-axis response ensures natural tone even when performers move on or off the mic, while advanced internal shock mounting dramatically reduces handling noise. Compatible with a wide range of popular wireless systems via interchangeable adapters, the d:facto 4018V offers unmatched flexibility, pristine sound, and the unmistakable refinement DPA microphones are known for.
4018V vs 4018VL: Which Version Makes Sense For You?
There are two versions of the d:facto 4018 microphone: the 4018V and the 4018VL. Both mics are part of DPA’s high-end d:facto series with the same excellent supercardioid design, strong off-axis rejection, low handling noise, and very high SPL handling for live vocals. The key difference is their frequency response tuning: the 4018V has a gentle high-end presence boost (about +3 dB around 12 kHz) that helps vocals cut through a mix and translates well over less-than-ideal speakers (like broadcast/TV systems). The 4018VL is ultra-flat and extremely neutral, giving engineers a clean, uncolored sound that’s ideal when you want full control in mixing or prefer the most faithful reproduction of the voice. So if you want vocals that stand out naturally onstage or in broadcast without heavy EQ, the 4018V is often preferred; if you want maximum neutrality and flexibility in shaping your sound, the 4018VL version is the better choice.
DPA d:facto 4018V Handheld Condenser Microphone Features
-
Premium handheld condenser microphone built around the DPA 4018 capsule
-
Studio-quality vocal clarity and natural, transparent sound
-
Supercardioid polar pattern for excellent isolation and gain before feedback
-
Smooth, linear off-axis response for consistent tone during performer movement
-
High SPL handling for powerful vocals without distortion
-
Advanced internal shock mounting minimizes handling and stage noise
- Modular design compatible with leading wireless systems via interchangeable adapters
- Robust construction designed for professional touring and live performance
- Ideal for lead vocals, spoken word, broadcast, and high-end live sound applications
DPA d:facto 4018V Handheld Condenser Microphone Specifications
- Microphone Type: Handheld condenser
- Capsule: DPA 4018
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 158 dB SPL (before clipping)
- Sensitivity: 5 mV/Pa
- Equivalent Noise Level: 24 dB(A)
- Dynamic Range: 134 dB
- Power Requirement: Phantom power
- Finish: Matte black
DPA d:facto 4018V Handheld Condenser Microphone Includes
- DPA d:facto 4018V Handheld Condenser Microphone
- Microphone Pouch
- Manufacturer Warranty
2 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
-
Most natural vocals.
Feb 22nd 2016Void of ridiculous proximity effects, this microphone does great in reproducing the original source while maintaining crips top end,smooth mids and tight low end, all while giving you high gain before feedback.
-
DPA d:facto vocal mic...
Sep 17th 2013Most everyone that sang through it sounded great (very natural-sounding). For the two that didn't I’m inclined to think that their mic technique might be more to blame than the microphone. It’s a keeper! I also used it to mic up a mandolin and it sounded just like a mandolin should; not sort of like a mandolin, but exactly like a mandolin (to my ears)! I also used it to mic up an acoustic guitar and banjo in a bluegrass band. I had a Shure SM81 on a stand, ready to go, but the banjo player grabbed the mic stand holding the DPA mic and moved in front of his banjo, before I could get the SM81 in place, so I let it go and used the DPA instead. Both instruments sounded just like they should (to my ears). Very natural. It’s nice to know I can use this mic for some instruments as well as vocals. (Note: had to cut the review short because of a character limit but Kudos to Front End Audio for outstanding customer service getting this mic to me on very short notice).
Write a Review
Sign Up for exclusive sales and offers!