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Perspective
I find amplification to be a very subjective experience. We all hear something different. Our preferences are shaped by many factors. My "Pickups" articles share my own impressions of and experiences with the named products. Currently, there are no A / B sound comparisons or recordings. A few articles share installation tips.
What it isn't
The DPA 4099 is not an acoustic guitar pickup, per se. It is a very high quality microphone. However, DPA provides an accessory that non-destructively mounts the mic to the guitar, offering the performer the best of both worlds: the convenience of the on-board pickup along with the best possible audio reproduction for amplification.
What it is
DPA calls this microphone their 4099 CORE Mic, Loud SPL and describes it for use to close-mike most types of instruments - from banjos to cellos and most everything in between.
One gooseneck mic can be fitted to a variety of mounting clips to serve various applications. A mounting clip has been specifically designed for the acoustic guitar.
It can be mounted to most acoustic guitars, be they steel or nylon string.
Specifications
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity, nominal, ±3 dB at 1 kHz: -44dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 71 dB
Operating voltage (wireless): 5 ~ 10 VDC
Operating voltage (Phantom): "Will work from 12 V"
Gooseneck length: 140 mm (5.5 in)
Directional pattern: Supercardioid
Features
Supercardioid condenser microphone
Handles high SPLs
Superior gain-before-feedback
Flexible and easy mounting
Versatile gooseneck extender
Detachable cable
My Impressions
I consider the DPA 4099 a serious microphone for the most demanding of audiophiles. It may be a bit fiddly to position it, just right, on your guitar. That is not because there is something wrong with the mounting adapter. Rather, as with a mic on a stand, your playing position and style greatly affect the whole experience, and may need to be tailored for success.
However, unlike a microphone on a stand, once it is positioned properly, this mic moves with you and your guitar, like a mounted pickup. It can be used for both sound reinforcement and recording.
Physically, it may take a bit of getting used to, as it is a more delicate accessory affixed gently to the exterior of your instrument. Accommodating a particular pickup system is not unique to this microphone. For example, a soundhole-mounted pickup requires you stop clicking it with your fingernails or striking it with a plectrum. Once you adjust your technique, it is a very sweet and accurate sound solution.
Is it more prone to feedback than an onboard pickup system? That is too broad of a topic to definitively cover. My short answer is, "As with any microphone, feedback is a potential issue". However, if you are able to make it work in your setting, the sound reproduction is very "accurate".
You can read more about the DPA 4099 microphone on their website » DPA Microphones .
