Sennheiser e 965 Handheld microphone (cardioid/supercardioid true condenser) with switchable pre-attenuation (-10 dB), low cut switch, 3-pin XLR-M and 48 V phantom power - 500881

Product Overview

The Sennheiser e 965 is a large-diaphragm true condenser handheld microphone built for lead vocalists performing in demanding live and broadcast environments. A 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule delivers the low noise floor and extended frequency detail of an externally-polarized condenser in a mic designed to survive nightly touring. Switchable cardioid and supercardioid polar patterns let the engineer adapt pickup characteristics to stage monitor placement and room configuration without changing microphones. An onboard -10 dB pad and low-cut filter provide source and stage management directly at the mic.

Product Description

True condenser (externally-polarized) transducer technology gives the e 965 a lower noise floor and more extended high-frequency response than back-electret alternatives—characteristics that distinguish condenser vocal mics from dynamic designs in live application. The dual-diaphragm 1-inch capsule enables electronic pattern switching between cardioid and supercardioid without mechanical parts, so the transition is clean and repeatable. In supercardioid mode, the narrowed acceptance angle and increased side rejection improve gain before feedback when monitor wedges are positioned at the sides of the stage. The switchable -10 dB pre-attenuation pad raises maximum SPL handling from 142 dB to 152 dB, covering high-output vocalists and close-miked acoustic sources. The 100 Hz low-cut filter addresses stage rumble and proximity-effect bass buildup at close working distances. An integral shock mount mechanically isolates the capsule from stand-borne vibration and cable handling noise. The stainless-steel mesh grille and reinforced metal body are built for regular touring deployment. At 48 V phantom power with a 3.5 mA draw, the e 965 is compatible with standard consoles and preamps. Frequency response spans 40 Hz to 20 kHz with a smooth presence lift centered in the upper midrange to aid vocal intelligibility over loud stage monitoring. Ships with an MZQ800 mic clamp and a carrying pouch.

Key Features

• True Condenser Transducer — Externally-polarized design for low noise and extended high-frequency detail.
• Switchable Cardioid / Supercardioid — Dual-diaphragm capsule switches patterns electronically without mechanical parts.
• -10 dB Pre-Attenuation Pad — Raises max SPL handling from 142 dB to 152 dB for high-output sources.
• Low-Cut Filter (100 Hz) — Reduces stage rumble and proximity-effect bass boost at the source.
• Integral Shock Mount — Mechanically isolates the capsule from handling and stand-borne vibration.
• Extended Frequency Response — 40 Hz–20 kHz with presence lift tuned for vocal intelligibility.
• Stainless-Steel Grille and Reinforced Body — Built for nightly touring conditions.
• 48 V Phantom Power — 3.5 mA draw; compatible with standard consoles and preamps.
• Included Accessories — MZQ800 mic clamp and carrying pouch.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio
• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Recording studio

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the practical difference between cardioid and supercardioid on stage?

Cardioid provides a wider front pickup with rear rejection centered directly behind the mic. Supercardioid narrows the front acceptance angle for better side rejection, at the cost of two small rear lobes. For stages with loud side-fill monitors, supercardioid is typically the better choice. For in-ear monitoring setups where side rejection is less critical, cardioid offers more pickup latitude for the performer.

Q: Does the e 965 require phantom power?

Yes—it operates on 48 V phantom at 3.5 mA. Most standard mixing consoles and audio interfaces supply phantom power on mic inputs. Confirm phantom power availability before use, particularly with passive splitters or older consoles.

Q: When should I engage the -10 dB pad?

Use the pad when recording very high-output vocalists at close range or when placing the mic near a loud acoustic source such as a guitar amplifier to prevent preamp input clipping. The pad raises maximum SPL handling from 142 dB to 152 dB.

Q: What does the low-cut filter address?

The 100 Hz low-cut filter reduces stage rumble, stand-borne vibrations, and the proximity-effect bass boost that occurs when a performer sings very close to the capsule. It is useful on stages with significant low-frequency noise or when the performer tends to work at very close distances.

Q: Is the e 965 appropriate for studio recording?

Yes. The true condenser design and 21 dB(A) noise floor make it suitable for recording vocal tracks in a controlled studio environment. The rugged construction supports regular live deployment, making it a practical dual-purpose investment for artists who record and tour.

Q: What mixing consoles and wireless systems is the e 965 compatible with?

The e 965 outputs via standard XLR-3M and is compatible with any console or preamp supplying 48 V phantom power. It is a wired microphone and does not connect to wireless transmitters. For wireless condenser vocal applications, Sennheiser's SKM wireless transmitters with matching capsules are the appropriate platform.