At the IFA post-show in Eppingen, Shure presented a new type of digital microphone array that is specially tailored to broadcast and media productions. The DCA901 broadcast microphone array is designed to deliver front row sound and revolutionize workflows. Designed for sports broadcasts, studios and live events, it combines digital signal processing with intelligent control and requires significantly less hardware than conventional setups.
- New DCA901 broadcast microphone array with digitally controllable lobes
- Reduction of the typical number of microphones and cables in sports and event productions
- Integrated DSP for automixing, EQ, compression and delay
- Cooperation with EDGE Sound Research for linking with Virtual Sound Engine
A microphone array that replaces twelve microphones
The Shure DCA901 is not just another broadcast microphone, but is designed to fundamentally change the way sound is recorded for sports and live productions. Thanks to digitally controllable lobes and integrated DSP technology, relevant sound sources can be captured in a targeted manner and disruptive ambient noise can be suppressed. A practical example was provided by Senior Audio Supervisor Dave Grundtvig, who used just two arrays at an NBA game, where previously twelve microphones would have been necessary. This enables greater precision and at the same time a significantly reduced infrastructure of cables and signal paths.
The DCA901 represents a drastic simplification for broadcasters, whose demands on sound quality are constantly increasing due to growing audience expectations. The sound quality benefits from immersive multi-channel pickup, dialog isolation and flexible real-time adjustment. Particularly interesting: with up to eight high-resolution channels, the array is suitable for both stereo and 5.1 productions.
Maximum control through integrated signal processing
In addition to the hardware, digital signal processing (DSP) is at the heart of the new system. Automatic mixing, equalizing, compression and delay ensure that the sound quality remains consistent during recording and post-processing is significantly reduced. Power supply, audio streams and control can be bundled via Dante or AES67 interfaces, further simplifying the setup. For modern broadcast infrastructures with remote productions (REMI), the system offers the ability to remotely control recording areas or provide alternative feeds in real time.
The design features a flat, black construction to blend in unobtrusively with stadiums, studios or outdoor sets. This means the DCA901 not only meets the functional but also the aesthetic requirements of production environments.
Cooperation with EDGE Sound Research for sports broadcasts
The Shure DCA901 develops a particular strength in conjunction with the Virtual Sound Engine from EDGE Sound Research. This software integrates object-specific tracking of movements, players and equipment in sporting events. Together with the DCA901, this creates a more dynamic audio experience that enables broadcasters to incorporate detailed sound information into the mix in real time. Fans should be even closer to the action and experience a soundscape that traditional mixing methods cannot offer.
The partnership also demonstrates the direction Shure is taking with the DCA901: object-based audio and scalable digital systems that combine traditional engineering systems with new software solutions to create more future-proof structures in the media sector.
Conclusion
With the DCA901 broadcast microphone array, Shure is underlining its claim to design the next generation of sound solutions for media productions. Fewer microphones, simpler workflows and an immersive, detailed sound should noticeably improve sports broadcasts, live shows and studio formats. The model will be available from 2026 via the official Shure website and authorized distribution partners, a price has not yet been specified – but given the target group, the array is likely to be in the professional high-end segment.
