Sennheiser MKH 800 TWIN Universal studio condenser microphone - 502083

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MKH 800 TWIN is a large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone that records both transducer capsules simultaneously as independent channels, allowing the polar pattern to be set or changed at any point in post-production without the need to re-record. Built on the platform of the MKH 800 — one of Sennheiser's flagship RF-condenser studio microphones — the TWIN variant adds a second symmetrical push-pull transducer aligned back-to-back with the first, providing two discrete output signals that can be combined in any ratio in a mixing console or DAW. The resulting polar pattern range encompasses omni-directional, cardioid, super-cardioid, hyper-cardioid, figure-8, and every intermediate stage, all derived from a single mic position after the recording session is complete. This makes the MKH 800 TWIN an exceptional choice for classical ensemble recording, film sound, broadcast, and critical studio work where acoustical decisions during tracking may need to be revisited later.

Product Description

The MKH 800 TWIN uses Sennheiser's RF (radio frequency) condenser technology rather than a conventional DC-biased capsule design. RF condensers are inherently less susceptible to humidity, temperature variation, and electrostatic interference, delivering consistent capsule performance across a wide range of environmental conditions encountered in location recording, broadcast, and demanding studio environments. The two cardioid transducers are aligned across the microphone's axis in a true "side-fire" orientation; because their signals are kept separate through the microphone body and made available as two independent balanced outputs via a dedicated multi-pin connector, the phase and level relationship between them can be adjusted at any time.

Combining the two channels at equal level and polarity produces an omni-directional pattern. Combining them at equal level with inverted polarity produces a figure-8 (bidirectional) pattern. Blending the two in varying proportions yields any cardioid derivative in between. This approach — known as mid-side (MS) or dual-capsule matrixing when applied in post — means a producer can audition multiple polar patterns against the recorded acoustic environment without ever moving the microphone or the talent.

The frequency response of the MKH 800 TWIN extends from 30 Hz to 50 kHz, capturing the full audible spectrum and well into the ultrasonic range. This extended high-frequency response is particularly valuable for capturing the harmonic complexity of acoustic instruments, the transient detail of orchestral percussion, and program material that will undergo pitch-shifting or time-stretching in post. Very low self-noise ensures that ambient acoustic detail — room decay, spatial depth, the breath of a string section — is preserved without masking from electronic noise. High linearity of both transducers keeps distortion extremely low, maintaining transparency even at elevated sound pressure levels.

The microphone is finished in Sennheiser's Nextel grey coating and has a slim, visually unobtrusive profile suited for overhead orchestral positions, soloist positions, and applications where the microphone must be as inconspicuous as possible. The dual-output connector requires the use of Sennheiser's dedicated breakout cable (included or available separately) to split the two channels to separate XLR connections for individual preamplifier inputs.

Key Features

• Dual Independent Capsule Outputs — Two symmetrical push-pull transducers output separate channels, enabling polar pattern selection and adjustment entirely in post-production.
• Variable Polar Pattern from a Single Mic Position — Any polar pattern from omni to figure-8, including cardioid, super-cardioid, hyper-cardioid, and all intermediate stages, derived by adjusting channel mix ratio in the console or DAW after recording.
• RF Condenser Transducer Technology — Radio-frequency capsule design offers superior resistance to humidity, temperature extremes, and electrostatic interference compared to conventional DC-biased condenser designs.
• Frequency Response 30 Hz–50 kHz — Extended high-frequency response captures fine transient and harmonic detail beyond the audible range, beneficial for high-resolution recording and post-production processing.
• Very Low Self-Noise — Minimizes electronic noise floor, allowing the microphone to reveal fine acoustic detail including spatial depth, room decay, and subtle dynamic nuance.
• High Linearity / Low Distortion — Consistent transducer linearity maintains transparent, undistorted reproduction even at high sound pressure levels.
• Stable Polar Patterns — Pattern stability across the frequency range minimizes comb-filtering and off-axis coloration in both direct and diffuse sound fields.
• Remote Pattern Adjustment — Polar pattern can be set, modified, or A/B-compared under monitoring conditions during mixdown without any acoustic changes to the recording environment.
• Side-Fire Orientation — Capsules aligned perpendicular to the microphone axis, standard for large-diaphragm studio positioning over instruments and vocals.
• Stereo and Surround Compatibility — Single-microphone stereo and surround mixes are achievable in post; multiple units can be combined for complex MS and double-MS surround configurations.
• Nextel Grey Finish — Low-reflectance matte finish and slim profile make the microphone visually inconspicuous in front-of-stage orchestral and broadcast settings.
• Based on MKH 800 Platform — Shares the acoustic heritage and RF transducer technology of the Sennheiser MKH 800, a reference-grade studio and broadcast microphone.

Typical Applications

• Classical and orchestral recording where post-production polar pattern adjustment preserves acoustic options
• Broadcast studio vocal and instrument recording requiring flexible pattern selection after the session
• Film and television dialogue and foley recording with variable directional requirements
• Recording studio main and support microphone positions for acoustic instruments, choirs, and ensembles
• Stereo and multi-channel surround recording using mid-side or double-MS techniques
• High-resolution archival and reference recording sessions requiring maximum frequency extension and low noise

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the MKH 800 TWIN differ from the standard MKH 800?

The standard MKH 800 is a single-output large-diaphragm condenser with selectable polar patterns via a switch on the body. The MKH 800 TWIN adds a second matched transducer and outputs both capsule signals independently, allowing pattern selection and blending to be performed after recording in a DAW or mixing console — a capability the standard MKH 800 does not offer.

Q: What preamplifier or interface is required to use the MKH 800 TWIN?

Because the MKH 800 TWIN outputs two independent channels, two microphone preamplifier inputs are required — one for the front capsule and one for the rear capsule. Standard 48V phantom power is required on both inputs. A dedicated breakout cable (splitting the multi-pin output to two XLR connectors) is needed and is typically included with the microphone.

Q: Can I achieve mid-side (MS) recording with the MKH 800 TWIN?

Yes. The MKH 800 TWIN is particularly well suited to MS techniques. The front capsule functions as the mid signal and the rear capsule as the side signal. When the two channels are matrix-decoded (combining the side signal with a polarity-inverted copy of itself), the resulting stereo width can be adjusted continuously even after recording is complete.

Q: What polar patterns can I produce from the MKH 800 TWIN's two outputs?

By adjusting the mix ratio of the two output channels in a console or DAW, you can produce any polar pattern from omni-directional (equal mix, same polarity) through cardioid, super-cardioid, and hyper-cardioid to figure-8 (equal mix, inverted polarity), with an unlimited number of intermediate stages. Patterns can be automated within a session for dynamic polar pattern control.

Q: Why use an RF condenser design rather than a conventional DC-biased condenser?

RF condenser transducers use a high-frequency RF carrier that is amplitude-modulated by capsule movement. This design is inherently less sensitive to humidity and temperature changes that can cause noise, distortion, or failure in conventional DC-biased condensers. The result is more consistent performance across location recording environments and long-term reliability in professional use.

Q: Is the MKH 800 TWIN suitable for recording loud acoustic sources?

Yes. The high linearity of the push-pull transducers maintains very low distortion at elevated sound pressure levels, making the microphone suitable for close-miking of loud acoustic instruments such as brass, percussion, and amplified sources, in addition to its primary applications in classical and broadcast recording.

Q: What accessories are recommended for the MKH 800 TWIN?

A dual-output breakout cable is required to split the two capsule channels to separate XLR inputs. A high-quality elastic suspension shockmount is recommended to isolate the microphone from mechanical and stand-borne vibration. Sennheiser and third-party MKH-compatible accessories are available; consult Creation Networks for current recommendations.

Q: What warranty does the MKH 800 TWIN carry?

The MKH 800 TWIN carries Sennheiser's standard two-year manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.