Engineer Gary Baldassari and DPA CEO Morten Stove recently visited the Conservatory to give students a look at the DPA range of products along with numerous tips on advanced recording. DPA, whose products are often called the best kept secret in audio, makes a large range of microphone products that have interesting and unique characteristics. "DPA mics are best known for their ability to take high levels of SPL and deliver incredibly accurate on and off-axis frequency response," says Stove. The mics have been used for such diverse applications as recording the last five Super Bowls in surround, as well as capturing the launch of the Space Shuttle. Students got an experts view of just what the mics can do in a wide variety of applications, as well as seeing a shocking demo where Stove submerged a mic into a glass of sparkling water, having it come out none the worse for wear.
"Students and instructors alike learned some interesting things here today," says Kevin Becka, director of education at the Conservatory’s Gilbert location. "Gary’s experience in high-end recording with DPA products is unparalleled. His techniques are such that you are anxious to go out and try them immediately." Stove and Baldassari showcased some of DPAs cardioid and omni mics along with a line of miniature mics that have recently become popular with engineers such as Nashville’s Chuck Ainlay.
The DPA visit is part of the Conservatory’s ongoing guest lecture series that has brought such luminaries as Wes Dooley, Rupert Neve and Eve Anna Manley to the campus. 
Pictured: Morten Stove and Gary Baldassari from DPA addressing students at the Conservatory.
