Sennheiser MZW 20-1 Blimp Windscreen for MKH 20-1 Grip

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MZW 20-1 is a professional blimp windscreen system designed for use with the MZS 20-1 shockmount grip and MKH 8000 series microphone assemblies. It provides effective wind noise rejection for outdoor and location recording, protecting recordings from low-frequency wind interference that cannot be removed in post-production. The blimp design encloses the microphone in a rigid acoustic cage with an outer fur windjammer for high-wind conditions. This is the recommended outdoor wind protection solution for MKH 8060 and MKH 8070 shotgun microphones in film and ENG production.

Product Description

The MZW 20-1 blimp windscreen is the professional outdoor wind protection system for Sennheiser MKH 8000 series shotgun microphones, used in conjunction with the MZS 20-1 shockmount grip. Blimp-style windscreens address a fundamental problem in outdoor recording: wind moving across a microphone capsule generates substantial low-frequency noise that obscures the recorded signal and cannot be effectively removed during post-production. The MZW 20-1 addresses this by enclosing the microphone assembly within a rigid outer cage that creates a zone of still air around the capsule. The outer cage is typically covered with a fur-type windshield for high-wind conditions, where the longer fibres of the fur further reduce wind turbulence before it reaches the microphone. This system provides dramatically more effective wind rejection than simple foam windscreens or thin fabric covers. The MZW 20-1 is engineered specifically to accommodate the MZS 20-1 shockmount grip and the MKH 8000 capsule and MZX 8000 module assembly, ensuring a secure fit without compromise to the microphone's acoustic performance. For film production, documentary, and ENG recording in outdoor environments, the MZW 20-1 and MZS 20-1 form a complete professional wind and handling isolation system. The assembly mounts to standard boom poles via the MZS 20-1 grip for normal boom operation.

Key Features

• Blimp Windscreen Design — Rigid outer cage creates still-air zone around the capsule for effective wind noise rejection.
• Fur Windshield Included — Outer fur cover provides additional wind turbulence reduction for high-wind outdoor conditions.
• Designed for MZS 20-1 Grip — Engineered to fit the MZS 20-1 shockmount grip and MKH 8000 microphone assembly precisely.
• Protects Recording Integrity — Prevents low-frequency wind contamination that cannot be corrected in post-production.
• Boom Pole Compatible — Mounts to standard boom poles via the MZS 20-1 grip for professional location sound operation.
• MKH 8060 / MKH 8070 Optimised — Form factor designed for Sennheiser's short and long shotgun capsule assemblies.

Typical Applications

• Outdoor film and television location sound with MKH 8060 or MKH 8070
• ENG and documentary production in variable weather conditions
• Nature and wildlife recording in exposed outdoor environments
• Broadcast sports coverage in open stadiums and outdoor venues

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the MZS 20-1 grip required to use the MZW 20-1 blimp?

Yes. The MZW 20-1 blimp is designed to fit over and around the MZS 20-1 shockmount grip with the attached MKH 8000 microphone assembly. The MZS 20-1 is a required companion accessory for boom pole use with this windscreen.

Does the MZW 20-1 include a fur windshield?

Yes. The MZW 20-1 includes an outer fur windshield for use in high-wind outdoor conditions. The fur cover should be fitted whenever wind speeds are sufficient to cause noise even with the blimp cage alone.

Does the blimp affect the microphone's sound quality?

A properly designed blimp introduces minimal coloration to the on-axis frequency response. The Sennheiser MZW 20-1 is engineered to preserve the acoustic character of the MKH 8000 capsule while providing effective wind protection.

Is the MZW 20-1 compatible with the MKH 8070 long shotgun?

Yes, the MZW 20-1 is designed to accommodate the MKH 8070 long shotgun assembly when mounted in the MZS 20-1 grip. Confirm current product specifications to ensure dimensional compatibility with your specific configuration.