Sennheiser MD 421 II Dynamic Microphone
A comprehensive overview of the Sennheiser MD 421 II, a versatile dynamic microphone known for its sound quality and robust design.
General Description
The Sennheiser MD 421 II is a highly regarded dynamic microphone, recognized globally for its excellent sound characteristics. It is well-suited for a wide array of recording and broadcasting applications, including vocals and instruments. A key feature is its five-position bass control, which enhances its adaptability and 'all-round' capabilities. The microphone is finished in black.
The microphone itself is depicted as a sleek, dark-colored device with a prominent grille at the front and a tapered body. The pictured cable is an accessory and not supplied with the microphone.
Key Features
- Rugged professional microphone
- Five-position bass roll-off switch for tonal adjustment
- Effective feedback and handling noise rejection
- Clear sound reproduction
- Pronounced directivity for easy handling
- Lockable stand holder
Technical Data
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Pick-up pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 30 - 17,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity (free field, no load, 1 kHz) | 2 mV/Pa (≈ -54 dBV) ± 3 dB |
| Nominal impedance | 200 Ω |
| Minimum load impedance | 200 Ω |
| Max. rejection at 180° | 18 dB - 2 dB |
| Insensitivity to magnetic field at 50 Hz | < 5 µV / 5 µT |
| Dimensions | 215 x 46 x 49 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 385 g |
Diagrams and Usage Information
Polar Diagram: The polar diagram illustrates the microphone's cardioid directional characteristic. It shows that the microphone is most sensitive to sound sources directly in front of it (0°) and exhibits significant rejection of sound from the sides and rear (e.g., at 90° and 180°). This pattern is consistent across various frequencies, with slight variations shown in the detailed plots.
Frequency Response: The frequency response graph displays the microphone's sensitivity across the audible spectrum (30 Hz to 20,000 Hz). Multiple curves are presented, demonstrating the effect of the five-position bass control switch. This allows users to shape the low-frequency response to suit different recording environments or instruments.
Usage: For optimal sound capture, users should speak or direct sound sources towards the front of the microphone, within an approximate 120° pickup angle. The microphone is designed to minimize feedback and handling noise.
Mounting: The MD 421 II is designed for easy mounting on microphone stands. It typically includes a stand holder and an adapter to connect to standard 3/8" or 5/8" threaded stands.
Connections: The microphone utilizes standard XLR connectors for audio output. Diagrams provided show typical wiring configurations for these connectors, ensuring proper signal transmission.
Recommended Accessories
Desk Stands
- MZT 100 (Cat. No. 001883)
- MZT 441 (Cat. No. 000799)
Windscreens
- MZW 40 (Cat. No. 01794)
- MZW 421 (grey, Cat. No. 00536)
- MZW 421 (blue, Cat. No. 01527)
- MZW 421 (red, Cat. No. 01530)
Delivery Contents
- 1 MD 421 II Microphone
- 1 Microphone clamp for 3/8" thread
- 1 Stand holder
- 1 Adapter 3/8" → 5/8"
