Sennheiser MKH 8020 HF Microphone Set (Omnidirectional)

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MKH 8020 HF Mic Set is a complete omnidirectional RF condenser microphone system comprising the MKH 8020 miniature capsule and MZX 8000 XLR module. Designed for professional recording, broadcast, and film applications, the MKH 8020 delivers exceptional transparency and ultra-low noise across the full frequency range. Its RF condenser technology ensures stable performance in demanding humidity and temperature conditions. The modular design allows capsule swapping for flexible polar pattern configurations in the field or studio.

Product Description

The MKH 8020 is Sennheiser's omnidirectional capsule in the MKH 8000 series, a professional-grade modular RF condenser microphone platform trusted by recording engineers, film sound crews, and broadcast professionals worldwide. The RF condenser design — as opposed to a conventional DC-biased condenser — provides inherent immunity to moisture, making the MKH 8020 reliable in outdoor, stage, and humid studio environments where standard condensers may fail. Its omnidirectional polar pattern captures sound equally from all directions with minimal coloration, making it ideal for capturing natural room ambience, orchestral sections, or any source requiring an uncolored, full-frequency response. The included MZX 8000 XLR module provides the balanced output stage and phantom power interface, converting the capsule's RF signal into a standard studio-compatible signal. The capsule itself is an interchangeable component of the MKH 8000 system — users who already own an MZX 8000 module can purchase additional capsules (8040, 8050, 8060, 8070, 8090) and swap them for different polar patterns without duplicating the electronics. At just a few grams, the capsule is exceptionally compact, making it suitable for discreet placement on instruments, in surround arrays, or on location. Frequency response is flat and extended, with extremely low self-noise that ensures clean recordings even at low source levels. The MKH 8020 has established itself as the reference standard for orchestral spot miking, Decca tree and ORTF stereo configurations, and cinematic location recording.

Key Features

• RF Condenser Technology — Provides moisture resistance and stable operation across extreme temperature and humidity conditions.
• Omnidirectional Polar Pattern — Captures sound equally from all directions with minimal coloration for natural, unprocessed recordings.
• Ultra-Low Self-Noise — Delivers exceptionally clean recordings even at low source levels, suitable for the most demanding studio applications.
• Modular MKH 8000 System — Capsule is interchangeable with all MKH 8000 series capsules via the included MZX 8000 XLR module.
• Compact Miniature Form Factor — Small footprint allows discreet instrument placement, surround arrays, and overhead positions.
• Extended Frequency Response — Flat, wide-range response ensures accurate reproduction of acoustic instruments and environments.
• Moisture and Humidity Resistant — RF condenser design resists condensation and humidity for reliable outdoor and location use.
• Complete Set — Includes MKH 8020 capsule and MZX 8000 XLR module ready for immediate use.

Typical Applications

• Orchestral and classical music spot miking and Decca tree stereo arrays
• Film and television location sound recording
• Broadcast studio ambience and room microphones
• Surround sound and immersive audio capture
• Acoustic instrument recording in professional studio environments
• Nature recording and outdoor field applications

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the MKH 8020 HF Mic Set?

The set includes the MKH 8020 omnidirectional miniature capsule and the MZX 8000 XLR output module. Together they form a complete, phantom-powered balanced microphone system.

Can I use the MKH 8020 capsule with a module I already own?

Yes. If you already own an MZX 8000 XLR module, you can purchase the MKH 8020 capsule separately and attach it to that module. The MKH 8000 series capsules are all interchangeable.

Why does Sennheiser use RF condenser technology in the MKH series?

RF condensers use a high-frequency radio signal to bias the capsule rather than a DC voltage, which makes them far more resistant to moisture and humidity. This translates to reliable performance in outdoor, live, and high-humidity environments where conventional condensers can fail.

Is the MKH 8020 suitable for outdoor recording?

Yes. Its RF condenser design makes it significantly more moisture-resistant than standard condensers. For exposed outdoor use, Sennheiser recommends pairing it with the MZW 20-1 blimp windscreen system.

What stereo configurations work well with the MKH 8020?

The MKH 8020's omnidirectional pattern is well suited for Decca tree arrays, AB stereo, and surround setups. For a matched stereo pair, consider the MKH 8020 STEREOSET which includes two factory-matched capsules.

What phantom power does the MKH 8020 require?

The MKH 8020 operates on standard 48 V phantom power (±4 V tolerance), supplied through the MZX 8000 XLR module.