Sennheiser MKH 8050 HF Microphone Set (Super-Cardioid)

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 HF Mic Set is a complete super-cardioid RF condenser microphone system comprising the MKH 8050 miniature capsule and MZX 8000 XLR module. The super-cardioid polar pattern provides tighter directional pickup than a standard cardioid with greater off-axis rejection, making it the preferred choice when maximum isolation from ambient sound is required. RF condenser technology delivers ultra-low self-noise and excellent resistance to moisture and humidity. As part of the modular MKH 8000 platform, the capsule is interchangeable with other polar pattern options in the series.

Product Description

The MKH 8050 occupies a critical position in the MKH 8000 system as the super-cardioid capsule — narrower than the MKH 8040 cardioid and providing greater rejection of off-axis sound. This polar pattern is the choice for applications where the recording environment is acoustically problematic and the microphone needs to maximise isolation from unwanted reflections, crowd noise, or adjacent instruments. The tight pickup axis of the super-cardioid makes it effective for close miking of specific instruments within a larger ensemble, for critical broadcast voice pickup in noisy studio environments, and for location recording where the recording environment cannot be fully controlled. Like all MKH 8000 capsules, the MKH 8050 uses RF condenser technology, which means the capsule is inherently resistant to moisture — a practical advantage over conventional condensers in any outdoor or live application. The ultra-low self-noise of the MKH 8050 ensures that even quiet or distant sources are captured with full resolution. The MZX 8000 XLR module included in this set provides balanced output and phantom power conditioning for standard studio interface compatibility. The compact miniature form factor of the capsule makes it easy to place precisely near instruments or in tight positions where a larger microphone body would be impractical. Engineers working in classical recording, film, and broadcast regularly use the MKH 8050 alongside cardioid and omnidirectional MKH 8000 capsules as part of multi-microphone setups.

Key Features

• Super-Cardioid Polar Pattern — Tighter directional pickup than cardioid with greater off-axis rejection for improved isolation in complex acoustic environments.
• RF Condenser Technology — Inherent moisture resistance for reliable performance outdoors and in humidity-variable environments.
• Ultra-Low Self-Noise — Exceptionally low noise floor for clean capture of quiet and distant sources.
• Modular MKH 8000 System — Interchangeable with all MKH 8000 capsules via the included MZX 8000 XLR module.
• Compact Miniature Form Factor — Precise placement near instruments or in tight positions without acoustic obstruction.
• Extended Frequency Response — Wide frequency range for accurate reproduction of acoustic instruments and voice.
• High SPL Handling — Handles loud sources without distortion across a wide dynamic range.
• Complete Set — Includes MKH 8050 capsule and MZX 8000 XLR module for immediate use.

Typical Applications

• Classical music ensemble spot miking requiring high isolation
• Broadcast voice pickup in acoustically challenging environments
• Film and television location sound requiring tight directional control
• Instrument miking within large ensembles where spill must be minimised
• Live recording and broadcast in venues with high ambient noise levels
• Nature and field recording requiring maximum directional discrimination

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the practical difference between the MKH 8050 super-cardioid and the MKH 8040 cardioid?

The MKH 8050 has a narrower pickup angle and greater rejection of sound arriving from off-axis positions. This makes it better suited for high-isolation applications, though it requires more precise aiming than the MKH 8040. A small rear lobe is also present, which should be factored into placement decisions.

Is the MKH 8050 suitable for orchestral recording?

Yes. The MKH 8050 is commonly used as a spot microphone in large ensemble recordings where high isolation from adjacent instruments is needed. It is often used alongside MKH 8020 or MKH 8040 capsules in the same session.

Does the super-cardioid pattern affect placement technique?

Yes. The tighter pickup angle requires more precise positioning and aiming at the source. The pattern also has a small rear lobe, so microphone stands and backgrounds behind the capsule should be factored into placement.

Can the MKH 8050 be used with existing MZX 8000 modules?

Yes. The MKH 8050 capsule is interchangeable with the MZX 8000 XLR module. If you already own a module, the capsule is available separately.

What windscreen options are available for the MKH 8050?

The MZW 20-1 blimp windscreen system is recommended for exposed outdoor use. For lighter wind conditions, foam windscreens compatible with the MKH 8000 capsule size can also be used.