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Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone

BH #SEMKH8050 • MFR #MKH 8050
7 reviews
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Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone
Key Features
  • Supercardioid Pattern
  • Modular Design
  • Ideal for Soloist Recordings
  • Includes Capsule and XLR Module
The MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone from Sennheiser is a professional low-profile condenser microphone for capturing vocals and instruments in recording and sound-reinforcement applications. The modular design consists of the MKHC 8050 supercardioid capsule and the MZX 8000 XLR module output stage.
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Sennheiser MKH 8050 Overview

The MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone from Sennheiser is a professional low-profile condenser microphone for capturing vocals and instruments in recording and sound-reinforcement applications. The modular design consists of the MKHC 8050 supercardioid capsule and the MZX 8000 XLR module output stage.

The supercardioid capsule is most effective in minimizing 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 8050 is ideal for soloist capturing.

Supercardioid Pickup
The supercardioid polar pattern is most effective in minimizing off-axis feedback and noise.
Modular Design
The modular design consists of the MKHC 8050 supercardioid capsule and the MZX 8000 XLR module output stage.
Symmetrical Transducer
The capsule features a symmetrical transducer with two back-plates resulting in extremely low distortion.
Wide Frequency Response
A wide frequency response of 30 Hz to 50 kHz ensures accurate reproduction of instruments, ambiance, vocals, etc.
UPC: 615104126510

Sennheiser MKH 8050 Specs

Key Specs
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Controls
No
Frequency Response
30 Hz to 50 kHz
Maximum SPL
142 dB
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Microphone
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Orientation
End Address
Controls
No
Pad
No
Circuitry
Solid-State
Performance
Frequency Response
30 Hz to 50 kHz
Maximum SPL
142 dB
Sensitivity
-34 dBV/Pa (at 1 kHz)
Equivalent Noise Level
13 dB (A-Weighted)
22 dB (CCIR)
Connectivity
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
48 V (Phantom Power)
Physical
Dimensions
ø: 0.7 x L: 2.9" / ø: 19 x L: 74 mm
Weight
1.94 oz / 55 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.35 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
13.875 x 5.5 x 2.75"

Sennheiser MKH 8050 Reviews

Awesome microphone

By Matt
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-04-10

I have two of these. I use them for interior interviews/ dialog work for film and TV. They simply sound great (or rather, capture sound superbly). The off-axis sounds are suitably reduced with this super-cardioid pattern mic while also delivering naturally sounding off axis sounds—-off axis the tone does not shift, it simply reduces in audio level, which is ideal for film / TV dialog work. One caveat to this mic is it really needs the extra in line low cut filter + pad to deliver best service. The MKH8050 has a robust low frequency capture which is great for the sake of obtaining full spectrum frequency recordings. But for dialog work, cutting low frequencies is more desirable to my taste. AND, when using the MKH8050 on a boom pole, the low frequency sensitivity of this mic makes it susceptible to handling noise—-the low cut filter aids in eliminating that issue… even if you are a gentle boom operator, the MKH8050 without the low cut filter will give you problems with handling noise, in my experience. Add the filter and you are good to go. This is a serious tool for high end recording work. It is an expensive investment, but if sound recording is your occupation, you will be very happy to have this awesome microphone as part of your collection of microphones.

Crystal clear dialogue

By Nelson
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-04-30

I purchased two of these mics to use for indoor interviews. Previously, I was using the Rode NTG3, a supercardioid shotgun condenser microphone. While I think the NTG3 is an excellent mic, shotgun mics are made for windy conditions, typically outdoors. When used indoors, shotgun mics can produce odd sound artifacts. When it became time for me to pick up a dedicated professional indoor mic, the Sennheiser MKH 8050 was top on my list after a lot of research. I do not regret my purchase. The MKH8050 is a perfect dialogue mic. The vocals come through crystal clear along with greatly reduced room noise compared to my previous mic, even when the room is untreated with sound proofing. If you're looking for a crystal clear mic that is built to last and is proven in the industry (even in humid conditions thanks to the RF technology), I recommend the MKH8050.

See any errors on this page?

Which shockmount would be perfect for It?

Which shockmount would be perfect for It?
Asked by: Raphael
Here's a quality Rycote shock mount suggestion for the MKH8050 BH #RYINVHGMKIII.
Answered by: Daniel
Date published: 2022-11-09

Would the MKH 8050 make a good on-camera mic? on ...

Would the MKH 8050 make a good on-camera mic? on the Blackmagic 6K Pro?
Asked by: Richard
The Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone is not really designed as an on-camera mic, but it could be used in that manner if needed.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2023-03-14

Looking to store an mkh8050 and 2x mkh50s in a ...

Looking to store an mkh8050 and 2x mkh50s in a run bag (using this one: BH #POCSDV4U ). I leave the Rycote INV mk3 shockmounts on the mics for convenience, as well as the foam windscreens (bubblebee spacer BH #BUBBISBXS & rycote super softie BH #RYWSQAT) for additional protection. am currently putting the mics in these porta brace zipper bags (BH #POCSB93 ) to separate them within the run bag, but wanted to see if there's anything slightly larger (to fit w/ the foam windscreens, not just the rycote shockmounts) & slightly more robust in terms of protection?
Asked by: Kevin
Perhaps you can use something like the OP/TECH USA Lens/Filter Pouch, Large (B&H # OPPLFL) which is 9" high and has a 4.5" diameter, or the Ruggard Fold-Over Neoprene Lens Pouch - 3.5 x 6", Black (B&H # RULPNF35X60) or the Tenba Soft Neoprene Lens Pouch - Black, 9 x 4.8" (B&H # TETSLP948B). The Tenba Soft Molded EVA Lens Capsule with Extra Padding - Black, 9 x 4.8" (B&H # TE636359) has a more structured design for added protection. Even though these items are intended for use with camera lenses, they certainly can be used to protect the Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone together with the windscreens and perhaps with the shockmount too.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2022-11-04

What the best windscreen that will fit?

What the best windscreen that will fit?
Asked by: Nelson
This foam wind protection is included SEMZW8000 in the bix: In the Box Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone MKH 8050 Microphone Head Sennheiser MZX 8000 XLR Module for MKH-8000 Capsules Sennheiser MZQ-8000 Standard Microphone Clip for MKH-8000 Microphones Sennheiser MZW-8000 Windscreen for MKH8000 Series Microphones Aluminum Transport Case Limited 2-Year Warranty Other options as spares: Foam: B&H # AUWHF2040 or WI1200B
Answered by: james
Date published: 2020-12-07

would the mkh50 or the mkh8050 be the best choice ...

would the mkh50 or the mkh8050 be the best choice for recording indoor dialogue for narrative film, in cramped, reflective spaces with low ceilings?
Asked by: Kevin
While both microphones are excellent, many videographers prefer the Sennheiser MKH 50 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone for recording indoor dialogue for film over the Sennheiser MKH 8050 Compact Supercardioid Condenser Microphone. The MKH 50 is more commonly used for this type of application and it does a very good job of reducing reflections and background noise.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2022-11-02

What is the best windshield (dead cat) that will ...

What is the best windshield (dead cat) that will fit?
Asked by: Nelson
Since the Sennheiser MKH 8050 Microphone is only 2.9" long with a 19mm diameter, you can use the Bubblebee Industries "The Spacer" Bubble Windshield & Fur Cover System for Small-Diaphragm Mics - Black, Extra-Small (B&H # BUBBISBXS) or the Rycote Baseball Felt-Covered Windscreen - Black, 19/20mm, Single (B&H # RY039701). Both items will fit properly and will provide sufficient protection from wind noise. If you need a replacement for the foam windscreen that comes included with the mic, you can order the Sennheiser MZW-8000 Windscreen for MKH8000 Series Microphones (B&H # SEMZW8000).
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2022-03-29

How does this mike in comparison for MKH50 for ...

How does this mike in comparison for MKH50 for voice over or dialog? Any audio samples would be great
Asked by: Cash
Yes the Sennheiser MKH 8050 is very ideal for voice and dialog recording.
Answered by: David M
Date published: 2022-11-02
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