Sennheiser MK 4 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Sennheiser 504298 is a condenser microphone known as the MK 4, designed to give artists and engineers a reliable way to capture clear, natural sound in any studio setting. Built around a one-inch large diaphragm, the mic brings out the warmth in vocals, acoustic guitars, strings, and percussion while maintaining crisp detail across the highs. A cardioid polar pattern focuses on the source and helps keep room ambience or stage spill under control, so mixes stay clean from the start.

Inside the capsule, a 24-karat gold-plated diaphragm provides excellent conductivity and long-term resistance to humidity and corrosion. Self-noise is an impressively low 10 dBA, allowing quiet passages and spoken word to remain free of hiss. When sessions get loud, a 140 dB maximum sound pressure level lets the MK 4 sit inches away from a guitar cabinet or brass section without flinching.

The microphone lives in a rugged metal housing, and the capsule is mounted on an internal shock system that stops stand bumps and handling vibrations before they reach the audio path. Each unit is engineered and assembled in Germany, ensuring consistent build quality and performance straight out of the box.

Connection is simple: plug the balanced three-pin XLR output into any interface, mixer, or preamp that supplies standard 48-volt phantom power. From bedroom studios and podcast booths to commercial facilities, the MK 4 slips easily into existing signal chains. Solo artists can rely on its flattering vocal character, while engineers can place a matched pair over drum kits or in front of grand pianos for spacious stereo recordings.

Whether you are tracking a vocal demo at home, recording an acoustic session on location, or adding a dependable workhorse to a pro mic locker, the MK 4 provides a clear, honest sound that makes mixing easier and performances shine.

Highlights:

• One-inch true condenser capsule for detailed, full-range capture
• Diaphragm plated with 24-karat gold for stable conductivity and corrosion resistance
• Cardioid pattern that rejects off-axis noise and room reflections
• Internal shock mount that minimizes handling and stand vibrations
• Extremely low self-noise of 10 dBA for quiet recording environments
• Handles up to 140 dB SPL, suitable for loud instruments
• Durable all-metal housing built and tested in Germany
• Balanced three-pin XLR output; operates on 48 V phantom power