Zoom ZDM-1 Dynamic Broadcast Microphone

The Zoom ZDM-1 is a large-diaphragm dynamic microphone designed for podcasting, voice-overs, streaming, interviews, vocals, and other spoken-word recording tasks. Its XLR output makes it suited to audio interfaces, mixers, recorders, and other microphone-preamp-equipped systems. It provides a focused alternative for creators who need to capture a voice while reducing pickup of surrounding room sound.

The microphone uses a supercardioid polar pattern to prioritize sound arriving directly in front of the capsule. This focused pickup pattern helps reduce unwanted sound from the sides, which can be useful in home studios, shared recording spaces, and live vocal applications. For best results, the speaker or performer should work close to the front of the microphone.

The ZDM-1 has a 50 Hz to 18 kHz frequency response and a stated sensitivity of -54 dBV/Pa. Its sound character is intended for clear voice capture with controlled low frequencies and smooth upper-frequency detail. The dynamic design also supports high sound-pressure-level sources up to 135 dB SPL.

An internal shock-absorbing mechanism isolates the capsule from handling noise and environmental vibration. The microphone also includes a built-in humbucking circuit intended to reduce electromagnetic interference from nearby electronic devices and power-related sources. These design elements help support cleaner recordings in practical desktop, studio, and field setups.

The ZDM-1 is built with an all-metal body and grille for regular studio or mobile use. It includes a custom windscreen, a pivoting mic stand mount, and a threaded European mic stand adapter. Add an XLR cable and a compatible audio interface, mixer, recorder, or microphone preamp to complete a recording system.

Key Features

• Large-Diaphragm Dynamic Capsule: Captures spoken voice and vocals with a focused broadcast-oriented character.
• Supercardioid Pickup: Prioritizes sound from the front while reducing side pickup.
• 135 dB SPL Handling: Accommodates loud vocal and instrument sources without exceeding its rated limit.
• Internal Shock Isolation: Helps reduce handling noise and environmental vibration reaching the capsule.
• Humbucking Circuit: Helps reject electromagnetic interference from nearby electronic devices.
• Metal Construction: All-metal body and grille support regular recording and performance use.

Design & Installation

The ZDM-1 has a black all-metal body and grille, with a compact cylindrical housing measuring 150 mm long and 54 mm in diameter. Its internal shock-absorbing capsule support is built into the microphone body rather than requiring a separate external shock mount. A custom windscreen is included to help manage breath noise and plosives during close voice work.

Mount the microphone using the included pivoting stand mount on a compatible microphone stand or boom arm, then aim the front of the microphone toward the speaker or vocalist. Connect its XLR-M output to an XLR microphone cable and a compatible mixer, recorder, audio interface, or preamp. Position the microphone close to the intended source and keep unwanted sound sources toward the sides or rear for the most effective use of its supercardioid pattern.