Sennheiser has officially announced its MKH 8030 Figure-8 Condenser Microphone. It is ideally suited for studio / orchestra recording, field recording, and broadcast applications.
The MKH 8030 was first shown as a prototype at IBC 2023.
Key features
- Bi-directional figure-8 polar pattern captures sound equally from front and rear while efficiently rejecting sound from the side
- Highly symmetrical and frequency-independent pick-up pattern
- Ideal choice for combining with a cardioid or super-cardioid mic to provide a MS-Stereo setting
- Low-tension diaphragm and symmetrical, acoustically open push-pull transducer design keeps the sound flow as unrestricted and undistorted as possible
- Extended bass response allows for capturing sound in its full frequency extent and gives more freedom for microphone positioning
- Extended treble range (up to 50 kHz) captures sound in fine detail with precise transient response
- German-engineered with durable metal housing and rugged construction for superior reliability
- Moisture-resistant design ideal for use in humid, hot, and cold environments where other mics fail
- Low self-noise for greater detail in audio; retains the softness of quiet sounds, increases dynamics, and more
- Low non-linear distortion avoids adding new frequency spectrum thus keeping sonic clarity
- Compact size for easy transport; visually unobtrusive in live shows or TV
- Modular design allows for easy combination with various MKH 8000 accessories
- Nextel non-reflecting paint ensures no reflection from stage lights, keeping mic visually unobtrusive in live shows or TV
The Sennheiser MKH 8030 Figure-8 Condenser Microphone is claimed to enable audio professionals to capture pristine, detailed sound over an extended frequency range in nearly any environment. The mic fits both the MZX 8000 XLR module (included) and the MZD 8000 digital module, and is a great choice for capturing room tone, recording a duet, or wherever the highest attenuation of neighboring sound sources is required. The figure-8 pickup pattern lends itself nicely to various stereo recording configurations, including Mid/Side and Blumlein arrays.
An MZW 8030 foam windshield and MZQ 8000 mic clip are included. There is also a pair of Rycote Back-to-Back microphone clips ideal for adding an MKH 8040/8050 microphone to the MKH 8030 for mid-side or stereo audio capture.Robust Construction for Natural and Detailed Sound
- Featuring a remarkable push-pull transducer and an innovative low-tension diaphragm, the unique design of the MKH 8030 delivers superior sensitivity, wide frequency response (30 Hz to 50 kHz), extremely low inherent self-noise, wide dynamics, extremely low distortion, and a frequency independent figure-8 polar pattern that avoids coloration, so you can capture sound as authentically as possible.
- The rugged metal housing with non-reflective Nextel coating offers high resistance to moisture.
- The sound signature of the MKH 8030 has been carefully engineered to blend in harmoniously with the sound of the existing MKH 8000 series microphones.
Modular Design
- The modular design consists of the MKH 8030 figure-8 microphone and the MZX 8000 XLR preamp module with fully floated, balanced output signal.
- The MKH 8030 is also compatible with the MZD 8000 digital module.
Figure-8 Polar Pattern
- High rejection of lateral sounds.
- Use for Mid/Side and Blumlein stereo arrays.
Price & Availability
The Sennheiser MKH 8030 Figure-8 Condenser Microphone is available to pre-order for $1,499 USD.
