Until now, this sound of the large diaphragm microphone element used in the MD 9235 was reserved for productions using Sennheiser wireless systems. Now, the German manufacturer is bringing the sound of its dynamic MD 9235 capsule to a wired vocal microphone, the MD 435.
“Voices will retain that natural quality and detail that the MD 9235 is so famous for”, says Kai Lange, senior product manager.
The MD 435’s lightweight aluminium-copper voice coil reportedly ensures fast transient response, "resulting in a very detailed, nuanced and transparent sound, especially in the treble". The large-diaphragm microphone features very wide dynamics of 146 dB(A) and can handle sound pressure levels of up to 163 dB/1 kHz. The mechanical design is said to withstand the rigours of life on tour: the MD 435 features a metal casing and has a shock-mounted capsule to protect it from structure-borne noise. A hum-compensating coil protects the microphone against electromagnetic interference.
The cardioid MD 435 features a very pleasant proximity effect and the microphone is very tolerant of sound hitting the capsule at different angles, according to the company, that also states that "it reproduces vocals clearly and confidently even in loud live settings".
For use with Sennheiser’s wireless transmitters, the capsule of the MD 435 is also available as the MM 435 microphone head. Benefiting from an improved production process, it will soon replace the existing MD 9235 capsule. The MM 435 features the brand’s standard capsule interface, ready for use with Sennheiser wireless series ranging from the evolution wireless G4 and 2000 series to Digital 6000 and Digital 9000.
The MD 435 microphone and MM 435 microphone head US retail at USD $619 each plus tax. In Europe it is available for pre-sale at around €500 including tax. There will also be supercardiod versions, the hand held MD 445 and the MM 445 head.