Is the MKH8040 suitable for live stage use?

Yes, at concerts it is used on acoustic instruments and as an overhead. On a loud rock stage where mics get knocked, the Shure SM81 or e914 is the more sensible pick.

How is it different from the C414?

The MKH8040 is small-diaphragm, cardioid only and very neutral. The AKG C414 XLII is large-diaphragm, multipattern and slightly livelier in the upper range. For voice lean towards the C414, for instruments the MKH8040.

Is the MKH8040 suitable for live stage use?

Yes, at concerts it is used on acoustic instruments and as an overhead. On a loud rock stage where mics get knocked, the Shure SM81 or e914 is the more sensible pick.

How is it different from the C414?

The MKH8040 is small-diaphragm, cardioid only and very neutral. The AKG C414 XLII is large-diaphragm, multipattern and slightly livelier in the upper range. For voice lean towards the C414, for instruments the MKH8040.

Microphones

Sennheiser MKH8040

Name: Sennheiser MKH8040
Brand: Sennheiser
Price: 30 EUR
Availability: InStock

MIC

Versatile cardioid microphone, 30-50,000 Hz, 142 dB SPL

Price per 24 h rental

30 €/ 24 h

Prices are per 24 hours of rental. Longer rentals, delivery and setup are quoted on request.

Ask for a quote

The Sennheiser MKH8040 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser from Sennheiser's modular MKH 8000 series. It is rented for recording and reinforcing acoustic music: classical ensembles, choirs, acoustic guitar, piano, percussion and drum overheads. The sound is neutral and detailed without a pushed top end, which makes it a good choice when the natural timbre of the instrument should stay untouched. As an RF condenser it tolerates humidity better than ordinary condenser mics.

If you need one neutral instrument mic, pick the MKH8040; if you need two matched mics for stereo recording, take the Sennheiser MKH8040 stereo pair. The Shure SM81 and Sennheiser e914 are the more affordable small-diaphragm options for stage work, while the AKG C414 XLII and vintage Neumann U87 are large-diaphragm mics for voice. For recording it sits well next to a Sound Devices MixPre6 MKII; at a concert it goes into a Yamaha DM3 or QL1 channel.

What to consider when renting

Requires 48 V phantom power and an XLR cable. Mount it in the supplied clip on a stand such as the K&M 260 and point the capsule straight at the source; for choirs and ensembles raise it higher and move it slightly back. Use a foam windscreen in front of brass or a singer. It is a sensitive and valuable microphone, so keep it dry and in its case. An experienced musician or sound technician should set it up.