Sennheiser MZX 8000 XLR Module for MKH 8000 Capsules

Product Overview

The Sennheiser MZX 8000 is the XLR output module for the MKH 8000 modular RF condenser microphone system. It accepts all MKH 8000 series capsules — 8020, 8040, 8050, 8060, 8070, and 8090 — and converts their RF condenser signal to a balanced XLR output compatible with standard phantom-powered microphone preamplifiers and consoles. Engineers who already own MKH 8000 capsules, or who want to build a multi-capsule kit with a single module, can use the MZX 8000 to expand their system cost-effectively. It is the core electronic component of the MKH 8000 platform.

Product Description

The MZX 8000 XLR module is the interface between MKH 8000 series RF condenser capsules and standard studio and broadcast audio equipment. It houses the preamplifier and balanced output stage that converts the high-frequency RF signal from the attached MKH 8000 capsule into a standard balanced line-level signal delivered via a 3-pin XLR connector. Without the MZX 8000 module, MKH 8000 capsules cannot produce a usable signal — the module is an essential component of every MKH 8000 microphone system. The MZX 8000 accepts phantom power (48 V) from the connected preamp or console and distributes it to power the capsule. It provides the mechanical interface that secures the capsule to the module body, and its connection can be made or broken in the field to swap capsule heads without tools. This makes the MZX 8000 the enabling component of the MKH 8000 system's modularity — one module can be used sequentially or simultaneously (with multiple modules) with capsules of different polar patterns across a session. Engineers who already own complete MKH 8000 sets (which include a module) and wish to add additional polar pattern capsules will need one MZX 8000 module per capsule they intend to use simultaneously. The MZX 8000 is compact, lightweight, and designed to integrate cleanly with MKH 8000 accessories including the MZT 8000 table stand, MZS20-1/216 shockmount, and MZS 20-1 shockmount grip.

Key Features

• Universal MKH 8000 Compatibility — Accepts all MKH 8000 series capsules: 8020, 8040, 8050, 8060, 8070, and 8090.
• Balanced XLR Output — Standard 3-pin XLR output for direct connection to preamps, consoles, and audio interfaces.
• 48 V Phantom Power — Operates on standard phantom power; no external power source required.
• Tool-Free Capsule Exchange — Capsules can be swapped in the field without tools for rapid polar pattern changes.
• Compact and Lightweight — Minimal addition to the overall microphone system size and weight.
• Accessory Compatible — Integrates with MZT 8000 table stand, MZS 20-1 shockmount grip, and other MKH 8000 accessories.
• Standalone Purchase — Available separately for engineers expanding an existing MKH 8000 capsule collection.

Typical Applications

• Expanding a single-capsule MKH 8000 system to multi-capsule operation
• Replacement module for existing MKH 8000 installations
• Building a multi-polar pattern capsule kit with shared module backup
• Studio and field recording with MKH 8000 series capsules

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the MZX 8000 module with any MKH 8000 capsule?

Yes. The MZX 8000 is compatible with all MKH 8000 series capsules: MKH 8020, 8040, 8050, 8060, 8070, and 8090. All capsules use the same mechanical and electrical connection to the module.

Do MKH 8000 HF Mic Sets already include an MZX 8000 module?

Yes. Each MKH 8000 HF Mic Set (e.g. MKH 8020, MKH 8040) includes one MZX 8000 module. The module is sold separately for engineers who want to add additional capsules to run simultaneously.

How do I swap capsules on the MZX 8000?

Capsule exchange is tool-free — the capsule is simply rotated and pulled away from the module body, and the new capsule is aligned and rotated into position. This can be done on location between takes.

Is the MZX 8000 the same module used in the stereosets?

Yes. The MKH 8020 Stereoset and MKH 8040 Stereoset each include two MZX 8000 modules — one per capsule. The module is identical across all configurations.