Shure DL4 DuraPlex Series Lavalier Microphone (Cocoa)

Product Overview

The Shure DL4 DuraPlex in Cocoa is a professional MEMS condenser lavalier microphone rated IP57 for dust resistance and waterproof operation, designed for broadcast, theater, film, and commercial AV deployments where environmental durability is a hard requirement. The Cocoa finish provides a discreet match for medium-to-dark complexion talent, reducing microphone visibility in camera-facing and audience-facing production environments. The omnidirectional 5.2 mm subminiature capsule covers 20 Hz to 20 kHz and handles up to 132 dB SPL, providing professional-grade audio performance across a wide range of vocal applications. The DL4C is available with MTQG or LM3 connector options for compatibility with Shure TA4F-based wireless bodypack transmitters.

Product Description

The DL4 DuraPlex is built on Shure's Plex cable platform: a 1.6 mm paintable, kink-resistant cable with dual redundant ground construction designed to outlast standard lavalier cables in high-use professional environments. The IP57 certification means the DL4 can be submerged in up to 1 m of water for 30 minutes and withstands dust ingress without affecting audio performance — meeting the demands of outdoor broadcast, sports audio capture, and high-activity theatrical productions. An included presence cap adds an optional 3–4 dB vocal presence boost near 10 kHz for speech clarity in presentation and conference room applications without requiring console EQ. The complete accessory kit (carrying case, single tie clip, sticky mount, snap-fit windscreen, foam windscreen, threaded TA4F adapter) supports immediate deployment across a range of mounting configurations.

Also available from Creation Networks in Black, Tan, and White. For an alternative Shure lavalier, see the Shure MX150B/C-TQG subminiature Microflex lavalier.

Key Features

• IP57 Waterproof and Dust-Resistant Rating — Certified submersible to 1 m for 30 minutes and dust-protected, enabling use in outdoor broadcast, sports audio, and high-sweat performance environments that standard lavaliers cannot withstand.
• Cocoa Color for Discreet Placement — Designed to blend with medium-to-dark complexion talent in camera-facing productions, reducing microphone visibility for broadcast, theater, and corporate video applications.
• MEMS Condenser Capsule — Micro-electromechanical system technology provides consistent, high-reliability audio with minimal unit-to-unit variation, supporting professional broadcast and live production quality control.
• Omnidirectional Polar Pattern — 360° pickup maintains consistent level as talent moves and microphone orientation changes, reducing gain-riding demands in live and broadcast mixing.
• 5.2 mm Subminiature Design — Ultra-compact capsule for discreet placement under clothing, behind a tie, or on a headset bridge with minimal visual impact.
• 1.6 mm Shure Plex Cable — Paintable, kink-resistant cable with dual redundant ground construction for extended mechanical and electrical durability in high-use installations.
• Presence Cap Included — Optional 3–4 dB boost near 10 kHz for speech intelligibility and vocal presence in conference and presentation applications.
• 132 dB Maximum SPL Handling — High headroom accommodates demanding sources at close placement distances without distortion.
• High RF Immunity — Compatible with digital wireless systems without RF interference in RF-dense commercial AV environments.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio and field production audio capture
• Theatrical production and performance vocal reinforcement
• Corporate events, training rooms, and all-hands presentations
• Outdoor events and sports broadcast in adverse weather
• House of worship and auditorium lavalier installations

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What wireless transmitters is the DL4C compatible with?
The DL4C with MTQG connector is compatible with all Shure TA4F bodypack transmitters, including the ULXD1, QLXD1, SLXD1, and AD1 series. LEMO-terminated variants are available for Shure LEMO-based bodypacks. Third-party compatibility with Lectrosonics and Q5X systems requires specific wiring — consult the DL4 user guide for diagrams.

What does the IP57 rating mean for real-world use?
IP57 means the DL4 is protected against dust ingress sufficient to maintain normal operation (IP5) and can be submerged in up to 1 m of water for 30 minutes (IP7). This covers heavy rain, sweat, incidental splashing, and outdoor field production conditions that would damage a non-rated lavalier.

Why choose Cocoa over other color options?
The Cocoa finish is formulated to blend with medium-to-dark complexion talent in camera-facing and audience-facing productions, minimizing microphone visibility. All DL4 DuraPlex colors share identical audio specifications and accessories; color selection is based purely on talent skin tone and wardrobe requirements.

Can the cable be painted for further concealment?
Yes. The Shure Plex 1.6 mm cable is paintable, allowing it to be color-matched to skin tone or wardrobe for theater and broadcast applications where cable visibility is a production concern.

What is the presence cap used for?
The included presence cap attaches to the capsule and adds a 3–4 dB boost near 10 kHz, enhancing vocal clarity in speech reinforcement and presentation applications without requiring console EQ.