The Sennheiser MD 421-II Microphone is a cardioid, dynamic microphone popularized by the recording and broadcast industry. The MD 421-II is favored for its ability to handle a variety of applications due to its flexible bass control. The microphone features a 5-position bass roll-off switch and frequency response of 30 to 17,000 Hz. The cardioid polar pattern effectively rejects off-axis noise due to room acoustics and noise, and also provides effective feedback rejection often caused by monitors positioned within close proximity.

The MD 421-II features a dynamic capsule, allowing even signal response whether close-up or at a reasonable distance. This is particularly useful for broadcast applications, where announcers and DJs can refrain from remaining absolutely stationary. The MD 421-II also handles very high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for miking instruments high in transient (peak) response.

Dynamic Capsule Design    Cardioid Polar Pattern    5-Position Bass Roll-Off    Includes Lock-On Stand Adapter    30 to 17,000 Hz Frequency Response    Excellent Off-Axis Rejection    Even Signal Response @ All Distance    Handles High SPL

The MD 421-II features a dynamic capsule, resulting in even signal response in close and reasonable distances as well as the capacity to handle high SPL levels.

The cardioid polar pattern is effective in attenuating off-axis noise and ambiance. The cardioid polar pattern is also effective in rejecting feedback due to monitors.

The 5-position low frequency roll-off switch offers flexible bass attenuation allowing the microphone to be used in a variety of situations.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Is it wireless

A: No the Sennheiser e 835 is a cardiod dynamic mic. The only way it can be made wireless is with a wireless system that has a a mic plug transmitter. Like the Sony or the Sennheiser

Q: 2. Could anybody tell me the name of the stand that is holding the microphone in the picture?

A: That is a desk stand for the Sennheiser MD441U. There are 2 stands that fit the MD441U, the desk top one in the photo which comes with the mic (special order) and flexible rubber one that we have separately B&H # SEMZQ441.

Q: 3. What kind of receiver is needed for this wireless mic?

A: Actually this is a wired mic

Q: 4. Sennheiser MD-46, where is the serial number located and how do I get to it?

A: I couldn't find teh serial number. This mic really disappointed me. It was very expensive and produces an annoying noise. I thought was my mixer, but I tried oder mic and the noise have disappeared.

Q: 5. Why does it not have an on-off switch?

A: If you require an on/off switch on the mic, then the Sennheiser e835S Handheld Cardioid Dynamic Microphone with On/Off Switch, BH #SEE835S, would be the model for you.

Q: 6. Is this microphone all black or is it gray?

A: thank you for your question. the microphone head is dark black and the handle is a lighter black/very dark grey

Q: 7. does this mic have an on/off switch?

A: No.

Q: 8. How sensitive is this mic? Would it work well plugged directly into the xlr port of a canon xa series camcorder or would it need a stronger preamp?

A: Being that it is a dynamic mic, any recording device with an XLR mic input, will perfectly work with this mic.

Q: 9. what is the specs for the bass roll off switch for the 421?

A: There are actually 5 roll off settings on the 421. The M position is for Music and no roll off's are engaged. At the other end of the spectrum S is for Speech which is the steepest roll off. Each turn of the roll off switch offers a steeper suppression of the entire frequency range beginning roughly at 1000Hz. So if one starts at M with each click of the roll off ring one click sees 100Hz being suppressed by 4dB,another click suppress 100Hz by an additional 3dB and so on.Remember the roll off is gradual at 6dB per octave. Resulting in a gentle slope as opposed to a cut off. Best uses are Tom Tom's, electric guitar and percussion.

Q: 10. is a 604 mic good enough for a alto sax ?

A: The e604 can be used for miking instruments like a sax in addition to drums and would be able to handle the SPL. For an alternative that can also be mounted a condenser will offer better capture tonally. The e908 or Shure Beta-98 are common alternatives.