Electro-Voice ND44 Wired Dynamic Microphone

The Electro-Voice ND44 is a robust, wired dynamic microphone purpose-built for demanding live performances and studio sessions. Engineered for excellent acoustic control, it delivers an aggressive and punctuated sound that cuts through the mix with clarity and authority. Built around a large-diaphragm dynamic capsule, the ND44 offers a rich, detailed frequency response that captures the bite of drums, guitar amplifiers, and vocal performances alike, without sacrificing warmth or presence. Its design places emphasis on streamlining mic placement in real-world environments, making it an indispensable tool for engineers who value speed, precision, and reliability on stage or in the studio. Whether you’re tackling hard-hitting percussion, explosive guitar tones, or intimate vocal takes, the ND44 brings you a consistent, professional result every time.

• Large-diaphragm dynamic capsule delivers a powerful, detailed frequency response with rich transients and controlled warmth, ideal for demanding drum and instrument applications.
• Aggressive and punctuated sound with strong presence that helps your drums, amps, and voices cut through the mix while preserving natural dynamics and attack.
• Low-profile pivoting head enables easy mic placement in tight compartments or tight stage setups, giving you flexible positioning without sacrificing sound quality.
• Dual pivot points provide versatile mounting angles, solving common mic-placement challenges whether you’re recording in a studio or performing live on stage.
• DRC-2 drum rim clamp included for quick, secure mounting on drums and drum kits, making setup fast and repeatable while eliminating slips during intense performances.

Technical Details of Electro-Voice ND44

• Type: Wired dynamic microphone designed for professional use in live and studio environments.
• Capsule: Large-diaphragm dynamic capsule for a rich, detailed frequency response with strong transient response.
• Head design: Low-profile pivoting head for easy placement in confined spaces and around drum rims or instrument rigs.
• Pivot system: Dual pivot points allow flexible positioning to target exact sound sources and mic angles.
• Mounting: DRC-2 drum rim clamp included for quick and secure drum mounting; compatible with standard drum configurations.
• Connectivity: Wired XLR output for reliable connection to mixers, audio interfaces, or PA systems.
• Applications: Particularly well-suited for drums and percussion, heavy guitar amplification, and stage vocal use where aggressive, controlled sound is desired.

how to install Electro-Voice ND44

Installing the Electro-Voice ND44 is designed to be fast and repeatable, whether you’re adding a drum mic to a kit, miking an overdriven guitar amp, or capturing crisp vocal takes. Start by selecting a mounting method compatible with your venue and instrument.

For drum applications, attach the DRC-2 drum rim clamp securely to the drum rim. Position the ND44 with its low-profile pivoting head close to the shell or rim, angling the mic toward the area you want to emphasize—whether that’s the snare’s crack, the tom’s body, or the overall drum kit attack. Use the dual pivot points to dial in a sound that remains stable as you play, avoiding excessive motion during aggressive playing styles.

For guitar amplifiers, place the ND44 a few inches away from the speaker cone, adjusting the angle with the pivot head to emphasize bite and presence while controlling proximity effect. On vocal applications, position the mic slightly off-axis to reduce plosive impact while preserving forward vocal presence. Connect the ND44 to a mixer or audio interface with a standard XLR cable, ensuring phantom power is not required for dynamic models. Set your gain so the signal remains clean and free of distortion, then fine-tune EQ and compression in your mix to achieve the desired channel sound. Always monitor the signal through headphones or monitors to ensure the articulation and presence you expect are captured consistently.

Aspect considerations are critical with the ND44. The low-profile head helps with stage aesthetics and unobtrusive setups, while the dual pivot points give you the freedom to adjust quickly between takes or tunes. When used in live settings, secure cable routing is essential to prevent accidental pulls that could misalign the mic or cause feedback. In studio contexts, the ND44’s dynamic design excels at isolating the direct sound from surrounding ambiance, delivering a tight, controlled track that translates well in dense mixes. For best results, experiment with distance and angles until you achieve the precise balance between attack, body, and air that defines your instrument’s character. The ND44’s robust construction is designed to withstand the rigors of touring, offering dependable performance across countless gigs and sessions.

Maintenance is straightforward. Wipe the microphone housing with a soft, damp cloth to remove fingerprints or dust. Avoid harsh cleaners that could degrade the finish or the pivot mechanism. Periodically inspect the DRC-2 drum rim clamp for wear and ensure all pivot joints move smoothly without resistance. If you encounter any stiffness or looseness in the pivot points, apply a tiny amount of manufacturer-recommended lubricant to the joints and tighten any loose screws according to the user manual. With proper care and placement discipline, the Electro-Voice ND44 maintains its sonic character and reliability across years of use.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the primary use of the Electro-Voice ND44? The ND44 excels as a drum-mic, instrument mic, and stage vocal mic, delivering an aggressive, punchy sound with a rich frequency response that suits hard-hitting sources and dense mixes.
• Is the ND44 a wireless microphone? No. The ND44 is a wired dynamic microphone with an XLR output for reliable, interference-free connections in live and studio environments.
• Does it require phantom power? No. As a dynamic microphone, the ND44 does not require phantom power to operate, making it compatible with most standard audio interfaces and mixers.
• What mounting accessories are included? The package includes the DRC-2 drum rim clamp for quick drum attachment and secure mounting during performances or sessions.
• How does the pivot head help with mic placement? The low-profile pivoting head with dual pivot points allows precise, repeatable positioning in tight spaces—ideal for drums, amps, and vocal setups where space is limited and sound must be captured from a specific angle.
• Can I use the ND44 for studio recording? Yes. Its large-diaphragm dynamic capsule and detailed frequency response are well-suited for controlled studio tracks, particularly where aggressive presence and articulation are desirable.