Sennheiser MKH 8040 Stereoset – Compact Professional-Grade RF Cardioid Condenser Microphones (Pair)

OVERVIEW

The Sennheiser MKH 8040 Stereoset is a stereo pair of compact professional-grade RF condenser microphones with a precise cardioid pickup pattern, making them an exceptionally versatile choice for a wide range of recording applications. Their directional design considerably reduces the pickup of reverberant room sound, making them particularly useful in spaces with less-than-ideal acoustics or when unwanted sounds are coming predominantly from behind the microphones. A balanced frequency response, extremely low inherent self-noise and exceptionally low distortion ensure detailed, natural and accurate sound capture.

Designed with a modular construction and symmetrical transducer featuring two backplates per microphone, the MKH 8040 stereoset delivers outstanding performance across an impressive 30 Hz to 50 kHz frequency range. Their accurate directional pattern makes them well suited to spot-miking and surround recording, while their compact dimensions make them easy to position where larger microphones may be impractical. The non-reflective Nextel coating provides a discreet, professional finish for these microphones.

The perfect stereo pair for precise, spacious recording applications.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Precise Cardioid Pickup

The cardioid polar pattern focuses on the desired sound source while significantly reducing pickup from the rear and minimising the influence of room reflections.

Wide 30 Hz–50 kHz Frequency Response

An exceptionally wide frequency response captures detailed, natural audio across the audible spectrum while extending well beyond it for high-resolution recording.

Extremely Low Distortion

The symmetrical transducer with two backplates (per microphone) provides exceptionally low distortion, helping preserve the natural character and fine detail of the recorded source.

Ultra-Low Self-Noise

With an equivalent noise level of just 13 dB(A), each MKH 8040 provides a remarkably quiet recording platform for capturing subtle details and dynamic performances.

Accurate Directionality

Their carefully controlled directional characteristics provide consistent off-axis response, making the microphones highly effective for focused recording and critical placement.

Modular Design

The modular construction allows the microphone heads and XLR modules to be separated, providing flexibility for different recording configurations and applications.

Ideal for Spot & Surround Recording

Their compact form factor and precise cardioid response make them particularly well suited to spot-miking instruments, as well as surround and other multi-microphone recording techniques.

Compact & Lightweight

Measuring just 41 mm in length for the microphone head and weighing only 25 g each, the MKH 8040 are easy to position discreetly without compromising professional recording performance.

Professional Balanced Output

The transformerless, floating XLR-3M balanced outputs provide reliable connection to professional recording equipment, with 48 V phantom power required for operation.

FEATURES

• Cardioid pickup pattern
• Modular design
• Wide frequency response 30 to 50,000 Hz
• Symmetrical transducer with 2 backplates (per microphone) providing extremely low distortion
• Extremely low inherent self-noise
• Accurate directional pattern
• Non-reflective Nextel coating
• Ideal as spot microphones and for surround recordings
• Also available as a single unit

TECHNICAL SPECS (Per Microphone)

Microphone Type: Condenser

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Diaphragm Size: Small

Connection: Wireless

Audio Output (Connector): XLR-3M Balanced, Transformerless, Floating

Operating Temperature (C): -10 °C to 60 °C (14 °F to 140 °F)

Battery: Not Included

Phantom Power Required: Yes (48 V)

Charging Current (mA): 3.3 mA

Frequency Response: 30 – 50,000 Hz

Equivalent Noise Level (dB): A-Weighted 13 dB(A), CCIR-Weighted 22 dB

Max. Sound Pressure Level: 142 dB SPL

Sensitivity: -34 dBV/Pa

Nominal Impedance: 25 Ω

Min. Terminating Impedance: 1,000 Ω

Dimensions: Ø 19 mm, L 41 mm (74 mm with XLR module)

Weight: 25 g

Warranty: 2 Years

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

• 2 x MKH 8040 Microphone Heads
• 2 x MZX 8000 XLR Modules
• 2 x MZQ 8000 Microphone Clips
• 2 x MZW 8000 Windscreens (Windsocks)
• 1 x Protective Case
• 1 x Instruction Manual