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Sennheiser MK 8 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Large-diaphragm Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone with 5 Polar Patterns, 3 Pad Settings, and 3 Filter Settings
$749.00

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Sennheiser MK 8 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
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A First-rate Workhorse Microphone

Whether you're looking for a does-everything mic for home recording or a pro in need of a versatile workhorse condenser for your collection, you'll be totally satisfied with the Sennheiser MK 8. This internally shockmounted multi-pattern condenser microphone is based on a tried-and-true dual diaphragm design, providing you with warmth and clarity for any recording application. Sweetwater recording engineers were impressed by the MK 8's 3-mode attenuation filtering, which makes it particularly useful for combating the low-end muddiness of proximity effect when you close mic vocals.

Sennheiser MK 8 Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone at a Glance:
  • Five polar patterns cover virtually any recording situation
  • Three filter options allow you to eliminate unwanted lows
  • Three pad settings accommodate a wide range of signal
Five polar patterns cover virtually any recording situation

With its pair of gold-sputtered diaphragms, the Sennheiser MK 8 offers you the full flexibility of a classic condenser microphone. Three different cardioid patterns provide varying degrees of directional isolation, which is great if you're trying to block out instruments or room reflections. At either extreme, the MK 8 offers the open sound of its omnidirectional configuration and a figure 8 pattern. Any way you set it up, you'll appreciate the depth and warmth this traditional condenser microphone has to offer.

Three filter options allow you to eliminate unwanted lows

One of the best thing about a workhorse microphone like the MK 8 is that you can use it on anything, and Sennheiser made the MK 8 even more versatile by equipping it with three filter setting. With the filters bypassed, the MK 8 delivers a wide open sound with excellent bass response, but sometimes, too much low end can really muddy your sound. If you're afraid the low-frequency rumble of passing trucks or footsteps vibrating up through your mic stand might mess up your mix, flip on the 18dB cut at 60Hz. However, if you're just trying to get a less boomy vocal sound from a singer who likes to choke up on the grille, then the gentler 6dB rolloff at 100Hz will serve you better.

Three pad settings accommodate a wide range of signal

Did we mention you can use the MK 8 on just about anything? That includes super-loud sources, such as thunderous drums and dimed tube guitar amps. Part of what makes this possible is the 3-mode pad switch. Most of the time, you'll be okay leaving the pad switch set to off, but when things start to get too loud, the MK 8's -10dB and -20dB settings sure come in handy. So, whether you're recording spoken words or screaming trumpets, your MK 8 has you covered.

Sennheiser MK 8 Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone Features:
  • A classic dual-diaphragm multi-pattern workhorse condenser microphone
  • Select from omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, super cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns
  • 3-mode filter section lets you cut out extreme lows and adjust for proximity effect
  • Record extremely loud sources thanks to the -10dB and -20dB pad settings
  • Shockmounted 1" 24-carat-gold-plated diaphragms deliver warm and clear sound
  • Regular stand mount included
  • Requires +48V phantom power
Add a premium workhorse microphone to your rig with a Sennheiser MK 8 multi-pattern mic!

What Does "Special Order" Mean?

A special-order product is one that we don't normally keep in stock. We order it from the manufacturer as soon as you order from us. We have great relationships with all the manufacturers we carry, so we can get your special order to you as fast as or faster than anyone else. Remember that special orders are non-returnable and non-cancelable, so make sure the item is right for you. A Sweetwater Sales Engineer can help you decide — call (800) 222-4700 for assistance!

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Tech Specs

  • Microphone Type: Condenser
  • Polar Pattern: Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Supercardioid, Figure-8
  • Diaphragm Size: 1" (25.4mm)
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Max SPL: 142 dB
  • Output Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Self Noise: 10dB
  • Low Cut Filter: 60Hz (-18 dB/octave)
  • Pads: -10 dB, -20 dB
  • Connector: XLR
  • Color: Nickel
  • Weight: 1.07 lbs.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: 506195

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

A Real Sleeper

I do primarily Voice Over work in my studio and my main microphone is a U87ai. I got the MK8 several years back but haven't used it much. I actually took an MK4 on the road for my portable rig. But I decided to use the MK8 because of the lo-cut filter on the mic. I've just been using it at a vacation place in a relatively well-treated space and have been recording the final chapters of an audiobook - which I started in my studio with the 87. The author and his publisher have now heard not only the "studio" recordings but the "vacation recordings" and have not noticed a difference. I'm VERY pleased with the performance of the MK8 and recommend it highly as a moderately-priced VO microphone. The advantage over the MK4 or the Neumann TLM102 or 103 is in my opinion, the high-pass (lo-cut) filter. I haven't had to use anything but the cardioid pattern that that could be a very significant feature for some applications.
Music background: Former full-time musician/TV entertainer. Now a voice talent and live air show announcer.
Rated 5/5

Very under-appreciated mic.

I don't see a lot of love out there for this mic, but after using it I honestly don't know why. I think this is probably the best value multi-pattern LDC. It's every bit as good as modern 414's, probably a little better honestly. Very mellow top end for a condenser, which is a good thing. The only thing I wish is that they would've included the shockmount, so just factor in the extra hundred bucks for that. But even after that it's still one of the best deals considering how good this mic sounds.
Music background: Engineer/Producer/Composer
Rated 5/5

Great mic and value!

I just ordered this mic and I have to say it sounds pretty amazing, and a great value. Useful for almost any situation, especially with all the built in sonic options. I love that they're still made in Germany, so build quality is obviously great. Nice improvements to its older brother, the mk4.
Rated 5/5

Excellent Bang for the Buck

For the asking price of this microphone, it is an absolute steal. The 5 polar patterns and additional tone switches make this unit extremely versatile. In the short time I have owned this microphone I have recorded male vocals, acoustic instruments, and used it as an overhead for a small vocal ensemble all with excellent results. I have not attempted to use it for drums, guitar cabinets, or female vocals at this time. The MK8 has a place in any commercial, project, or home studio. For those who can only afford or need one workhorse microphone, this will serve your purpose very well without breaking the bank. Cassie O'Hanlon provided great service by ordering and getting this to me quickly. I will call upon her for all of my future Sweetwater purchases. My only regret is that I did not order two of these microphones. William Reid (professional studio musician and owner).
Music background: Professional musician and studio owner. (Keyboards 30yrs, guitars 40yrs, saxophones 40+yrs, drums forever) Studio musician for Mighty Three Music and NBS Records.
Rated 5/5

New (old) secret weapon on a budget

This mic has almost the same exact features and specs of a Neumann TLM107 multi-pattern (5) mic at about half the price. I wonder how close the components actually are since it is made at same factory owned by Neumann. (probably sounds closer to a 102/103 but with pro features).... I am extremely happy with it, recording vocals/speech, bass, acoustic-electrics and distorted guitars, trumpets. I run it thru a Summit Audio 2BA-221 and/or RME A/D. Very pleased.

From their studio-standard MD 421 II drum mic to their trusty headphones and ultra-reliable wireless systems, there are countless good reasons why the artists and engineers here at Sweetwater are quick to recommend Sennheiser products. In our personal studios, you'll find plenty of HD 280 Pro headphones, e609 Silver cab mics, and other staples, while many of us rely on EW wireless in-ear systems onstage. Our long association with Sennheiser means we constantly have their latest products in stock and in our hands, so we're ready to tell you all about them. If you're looking for Sennheiser gear, then get the information you need from people who use it - trust your Sweetwater Sales Engineer.

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