Aiming to deliver the raw power of its the ear-splitting, earth-shaking racetrack experience to TV viewers, the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) faced a particular challenge – finding a microphone that would realistically reproduce the low-frequency component of the experience and withstand the incredible sound pressure levels at the launch of 11,000 horsepower cars.

NHRA Technology Executive Mike Rokosa found the solution in the form of DPA Microphones’ d:dicate 4007 omnidirectional mic.

Having met DPA’s National Sales Support/Business Development Manager, Gabriel Antonini at NAB in, Rokosa invited him to the NHRA Spring Nationals in Baytown, Texas to advise on mic placement. The DPA mics were placed at the start line where the nitro methane fuelled cars launch – the sound pressure levels are the most extreme in this location and for the first 50ft of a race.

‘We experimented with the DPA mics as part of Gabriel’s visit and he also collaborated on some placement discussions,’ Rokosa confirma. ‘Our overall takeaway was how impressed we were with the d:dicate 4007 microphone. In the locations where we placed them, they had to contend with SPLs in excess of 160dB. They not only survived where other mics have failed, but they delivered a very clean representation of the natural sound.’

Rokosa has been very happy with DPA mics in the short time he has been using them: ‘Sound is what conveys the awesome power of these cars and we are trying to provide the fans at home with as much of the aural experience of the live event as possible,’ he says. ‘The deep rumbling of the engines and the sudden explosion are difficult to capture without destroying the device, and the d:dicate 4007 mics seem to be able to survive in this environment.’

Last year, the NHRA produced more than 500 hours of television programming including 17 live race-day shows, airing four on national network television and primetime Friday night qualifying shows.

‘I appreciate how fast Gabriel and the DPA team were in addressing our needs and providing a viable solution,’ says Rokosa. ‘To have someone in the field with us was a demonstration of substantial support and that also allows us to continue to determine how well the mics will hold up over time. We intend to use these mics for the remainder of our upcoming productions and television broadcasts.’

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