Sennheiser MKH 8040 Compact Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Sennheiser MKH-8040 Compact Cardioid Condenser Microphone for capturing vocals, instruments and ambiance in recording and sound reinforcement applications. The modular design consists of the MKHC-8040 cardioid capsule and the MZX-8000 XLR module output stage.

The cardioid capsule minimizes feedback and off-axis audio. The symmetrical transducer with two back-plates yields extremely low distortion. The wide frequency response provides exceptional detail and transparency. With its pristine audio quality and compact design the MKH-8040 is great for many applications.

Sennheiser MKH 8040 Features

• Modular design
• Wide frequency response
• Symmetrical transducer with 2 backplates providing extremely low distortion
• Extremely low inherent self-noise
• Accurate directional pattern
• Nonreflective Nextel coating
• Ideal as a spot microphone and for surround recordings

• MKH 8040 compact cardioid condenser microphone1
• XLR module MZX 80001
• Microphone clip MZQ 80001
• Windshield MZW 80001
• Transport case1

• Transducer TypeCondenser
• Polar PatternCardioid
• Frequency Response30 Hz - 50 kHz
• Output Impedance25 ohms
• Sensitivity in Free Field, No Load (1kHz)20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV/Pa)
• Phantom Powering48 V +/- 4 V
• Equivalent Noise Level13 dB
• Equivalent Noise Level Weighted as per CCIR22 dB
• Max. SPL (passive)142 dB SPL
• Current Consumption3.3 mA
• Audio OutputXLR-3M balanced, transformerless, floating
• Dimensions0.75" diameter x 1.61" length (2.91" with XLR module)
• Weight0.88 oz (1.94 oz with XLR module)

About Condenser Microphones at Sound Productions

Achieve professional polish to your studio sound with condenser microphones from Sound Productions. A condenser microphone uses a capacitor that converts sound vibrations into electric currents. It is characterized by increased sound sensitivity than a dynamic mic, enabling it to capture more natural, detailed audio from vocals and instruments.

Use a large-diaphragm condenser mic (sometimes called a “capacitor mic”) to optimize the sound of vocals, acoustic guitar, and ambient room audio. Alternatively, choose a small diaphragm condenser mic (or “pencil mic”) for acoustic instruments including guitars, classical instruments, cymbals, and drum overheads. The smaller capsule and lightweight build make it easy to place perfectly in almost any miking application, while the consistent polar pattern makes a pair of small-diaphragm condenser mics the perfect choice for stereo miking.

Compared to the other popular option of dynamic microphones, condenser mics are louder, pick up a wider frequency response, and enjoy an expansive dynamic range—all aspects that make them ideal for studio recording.