Sennheiser MKH 8040 Stereo Pair
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Sennheiser
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A modern standard in the MKH series, designed for professional demands
Designed for high-end sound capture, the MKH 8040 is part of the lineage of reference microphones used in music recording, broadcast, and post-production. Its compact design and extended response up to 50 kHz make it a highly faithful capture tool, while remaining discreet on camera or when suspended on stage.
Who is it for and what are its uses?
The MKH 8040 is aimed at sound engineers, musicians, and creators seeking neutral and controlled capture in sometimes imperfect environments. Ideal for acoustic music, ensembles, spot miking, drum overheads, spoken voice on TV sets, or sound design, it excels where ambient control and stereo precision (XY/ORTF pairs with suitable mounts) are essential.
Precise sound capture, exemplary rejection
Its cardioid directivity offers an excellent source-to-ambient ratio, limiting coloration caused by rear reflections. The low self-noise allows for long-distance recording and subtle dynamics, while the ability to handle 142 dB SPL opens the door to very powerful sources without distortion. The 48 V phantom power and nominal impedance of 25 Ohms ensure reliable integration with long cable runs in studio or outdoor settings.
Technical specifications
| Frequency response | 30Hz - 50kHz | Connection | XLR |
| Category | studio microphone | Color | Black |
| Directivity | cardioid | ||
| Sensitivity (free field, open circuit, 1 kHz) | 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV/Pa) | Nominal impedance | 25 Ohms |
| Maximum sound pressure level (SPL) | 142 dB SPL | Minimum load impedance | 1000 Ohms |
| Equivalent noise level | 13 dB (A) | Connector | XLR-3M |
| Equivalent noise level, CCIR weighted | 22 dB | Dimensions | 19 x 41 mm |
| Phantom power | 48 V +/- 4 V | Weight | 25 g |
| Current consumption | 3.3 mA | ||
Questions frequently asked
Is the Sennheiser MKH 8040 Stereo Pair suitable for XY or ORTF stereo recording setups?
The pair can be used in XY or ORTF configurations with appropriate mounts. The cardioid polar pattern allows precise control over ambient sound and rear reflections.
What power supply is required for these microphones?
A 48 V ± 4 V phantom power supply is required, with a consumption of 3.3 mA per microphone. The connection is via XLR.
Can this pair be used to record a drum kit or a very loud source?
Each microphone can handle a maximum SPL of 142 dB, allowing use as drum overheads and on powerful sources without distortion.
What is the self-noise of the MKH 8040?
The equivalent noise level is 13 dB(A), or 22 dB with CCIR weighting. This makes it suitable for distant miking and subtle dynamics.
What frequency response does it offer?
The frequency response ranges from 30 Hz to 50 kHz. With dimensions of 19 x 41 mm and 25 g per microphone, the set remains discreet when suspended or placed in the stereo image.



