Sennheiser MKH 416 P48

A Classic on Sets: The Short-Range Reference for Radio, TV, and Cinema

The Sennheiser MKH 416 P48 has established itself as a standard in broadcast and audiovisual environments thanks to its balance between directivity, compactness, and very clear sound reproduction. Its short "shotgun microphone" format facilitates integration on booms, cameras, or mobile setups while maintaining precise source capture. It is particularly appreciated when isolating a voice in a busy scene and excels in outdoor reporting, where directivity and clarity are essential.

Who Benefits from the MKH 416 P48 and in Which Applications Does It Make a Difference?

This microphone is aimed at sound engineers, camera operators, journalists, content creators, and production teams seeking a reliable shotgun microphone for dialogue and speech. In interviews, it helps keep the voice front and center, even with background noise present. In fiction, it is very effective for boom pole recording aimed at the mouth while limiting the capture of unwanted ambient sounds. In postproduction studios, its intelligible sound can also suit certain voice-overs, especially when a "direct" and perfectly defined sound is desired.

Directivity, Intelligibility, and Power Supply: Key Features

Supercardioid lobe directivity to better isolate the source

The supercardioid lobe directivity typical of shotgun microphones focuses the capture forward, with stronger rejection on the sides. The result is a more focused, cleaner voice and better separation in the mix, whether for direct recording or capture intended for postproduction.

Design tailored for field constraints

Its short format and metal body make it suitable for mobile shoots and intensive working conditions. Its low tendency to acoustic feedback provides additional comfort in sensitive situations, such as recordings near monitors, reflective surfaces, or difficult-to-control environments.

Phantom 48V: easy integration with professional audio standards

The MKH 416 P48 requires Phantom +48V power supply, making it directly compatible with the vast majority of recorders, mixers, preamps, and audio interfaces geared toward audiovisual production. It naturally integrates into a professional XLR chain for consistent and repeatable sound captures.

Technical specifications