Sennheiser MK4 SET Large-diaphragm, side-address microphone with 24-carat-gold-plated diaphragm, metal housing and internal capsule shock-mount; includes MKS 4 Shockmount

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MK4 SET bundles the MK 4 large-diaphragm true condenser studio microphone with the MKS 4 external shockmount, providing a complete recording solution for studios and broadcast facilities where additional mechanical decoupling from the stand is required. The MK 4 uses a 1-inch 24-carat gold-plated capsule derived from the e 965 vocal mic design, manufactured in Germany with the same quality controls applied to Sennheiser's high-end condenser products. The MKS 4 shockmount uses an open-front design that allows closer capsule-to-source placement than traditional enclosed shockmount designs.

Product Description

The MK 4 in this bundle delivers 10 dB(A) self-noise and 140 dB maximum SPL, covering the dynamic range requirements of professional digital recording systems at both extremes. The 24-carat gold-plated diaphragm provides the sensitivity and high-frequency extension typical of large-format true condenser capsules manufactured at Sennheiser's German facility. The cardioid polar pattern delivers natural rear rejection suited to project studio environments where room treatment is partial. The internal capsule shock mount reduces structure-borne vibration under typical studio conditions; the MKS 4 adds a second layer of elastic suspension for installations where floor vibration, fan noise, or building structure is a concern. The open-front MKS 4 shockmount does not enclose the front of the microphone, allowing the capsule to be positioned closer to pop filters and acoustic sources than would be possible with a fully enclosed design—giving more control over proximity effect and low-end character in vocal recording. The microphone requires 48 V phantom power and outputs a balanced XLR signal compatible with all professional preamps and audio interfaces. Also included are a compact stand mount and a drawstring storage pouch.

Key Features

• MK 4 True Condenser Microphone — 1-inch gold-plated capsule, 10 dB(A) noise, 140 dB max SPL, made in Germany.
• MKS 4 Open-Front External Shockmount — Additional mechanical decoupling; open design allows close capsule placement.
• e 965 Capsule Acoustic Heritage — Capsule design derived from a proven professional live vocal condenser.
• 24-Carat Gold-Plated Diaphragm — Corrosion-resistant for stable long-term acoustic performance.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern — Natural rear rejection for studio and partially-treated environments.
• 48 V Phantom Power — Balanced XLR output for all professional preamps and interfaces.
• Complete Kit — Microphone, MKS 4 shockmount, compact stand mount, and drawstring pouch included.

Typical Applications

• Recording studio
• Broadcast studio

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the functional advantage of the MKS 4 open-front shockmount?

Traditional enclosed shockmounts hold the capsule farther from the grille or pop filter, which limits how close the performer can position relative to the capsule without the shockmount interfering with the stand or filter frame. The MKS 4's open front allows the microphone to be positioned closer to the source, giving more control over proximity effect and making it easier to achieve the low-end body typical of close vocal recording.

Q: How does the MK4 SET differ from the standard MK 4?

The MK4 SET includes the MKS 4 external shockmount in addition to the microphone and pouch. The standard MK 4 includes an MZQ 4 clip instead. Both contain the same microphone. The SET version is the better choice for studio environments with significant floor or structural vibration, or for engineers who prefer elastic suspension shockmounts as standard practice.

Q: What recording sources is the MK4 SET suited for?

Lead vocals, acoustic guitar, acoustic piano, drum overheads, woodwinds, brass solos, and broadcast narration are all within the microphone's capability. The 10 dB(A) noise floor supports quiet acoustic instruments, and the 140 dB maximum SPL handles close-miked acoustic guitar and loud vocalists without a pad.

Q: Is the MKS 4 available separately for use with the standard MK 4?

Yes, the MKS 4 shockmount is available as a separate accessory purchase from Sennheiser and at creationnetworks.net, if you already own the standard MK 4 and want to add elastic suspension without repurchasing the microphone.