DB8 Vintage Microphone
Experience the U48 Sound
A faithful recreation of the iconic U48, revered for its unique figure-8 polar pattern. Handcrafted in Canada with the same core components as the DB7, the DB8 delivers the unmistakable sonic character of the original.
The Build
Handcrafted Precision and Durability
The Fortin DB8 Vintage Microphone is built with the same uncompromising standards as the DB7. Using aerospace-grade aluminum and a polished nickel-plated finish, each unit is handcrafted in Canada to ensure maximum durability and acoustic integrity.
- Handcrafted in Canada
- Aerospace-grade aluminum body
- Nickel-plated finish for durability
The Capsule
Hand-Made M7 Capsule: The Core of the U48 Sound
At the heart of the DB8 lies the same hand-made M7 capsule featured in the DB7. Carefully tuned for figure-8 and cardioid operation, it captures the signature richness, warmth, and detail that defined the golden era of studio recording.
- Faithfully recreates the iconic U48 vintage tone
- Handcrafted capsule tuned for cardioid and figure-8
- Ideal for vocals, stereo setups (M/S), or room ambience
The Emulator
VF14E Emulator — Classic Tone, Modern Reliability
Replicating the original VF14 tube sound, Fortin's proprietary VF14E emulator ensures the DB8 delivers the authentic sonic profile of the U48, without the reliability issues or high cost of vintage tubes.
- 100% tonal accuracy
- No maintenance, no tube sourcing required
- Consistent performance from session to session
Specifications
DB7 vs. DB8
| Feature | DB7 (U47) | DB8 (U48) |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid / Omni | Cardioid / Figure-8 |
| Best Use | Vocals, general use | Duets, M/S, ambience |
| Capsule | Handmade M7 | Handmade M7 |
| Circuit | VF14E Emulator | VF14E Emulator |
| Transformer | BV8 | BV8 |
Specifications
DB8 — Technical Specifications
Capsule
- Type
- M7
- Acoustic Principle
- Pressure Gradient
- Polar Patterns
- Figure-8, Cardioid
Electrical
- Frequency Response
- 30 Hz – 18 kHz
- Sensitivity
- 25 mV/Pa
- Max SPL
- 125 dB
- Nominal Impedance
- 200 Ω
- Recommended Load Impedance
- 1000 Ω
- Audio Transformer
- BV8 (custom)
- Preamplifier
- VF14E Solid State Emulator
- Plate Voltage
- 60 V
- Plate Current
- ≤ 1 mA
- Heater Voltage
- 36 V
- Heater Current
- ≤ 200 mA
- Tube Warm-up Time
- 0 minutes
Physical
- Weight
- 730 g
- Diameter
- 60 mm
- Length
- 250 mm
- Cable
- 8 m Sommer cable
- Connectors
- Binder M25 7-pin / XLR 3F
Chassis
- Body
- Aerospace-grade aluminum and brass
- Finish
- Nickel-plated, hand-brazed in Canada
Power
- Power Supply
- AC 120 V
Operating Conditions
- Operating Temperature
- 0 °C to +50 °C
- Operating Humidity
- 0% to 70% RH
- Storage Temperature
- –20 °C to +75 °C
- Storage Humidity
- 0% to 90% RH
Kit Contents
DB8 microphone, audio cable, analog power supply, 120V power cord, shock mount, protective case, vintage carrying case.
Get Yours Today
Experience the U48 sound
Don’t wait to experience the legendary U48 sound in your own studio.
Reach out for pricing and availability of the DB8.
Available in North and South America
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