Sennheiser
Sennheiser MKH 50-P48
Best professional choice for precise dialogue and studio spot recording.
The Sennheiser MKH 50-P48 is a professional small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for precise spot capturing in studio and live sound environments. It excels in film and television production, delivering highly accurate sound reproduction with a wide frequency range. Its super-cardioid pickup pattern effectively isolates sound sources while minimizing unwanted lateral noise. Featuring symmetrical transducer technology for extremely low distortion and switchable filters for managing proximity effects and high sound pressure levels, this microphone ensures pristine audio fidelity for demanding recording sessions.
$1399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
9
/ 1828
#9 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+175%
Above average
Type
Condenser Microphone
/ Condenser Microphone
Who it's for
- Location sound recordists working in noisy, complex environments
- Dialogue editors capturing quiet, nuanced performances
- Field recordists operating in unpredictable, humid climates
Who should skip it
- Independent creators working with limited production budgets
- Users relying on basic cameras without professional power options
- Run-and-gun videographers needing forgiving, wide-pattern microphones
Performance breakdown
Off-axis rejection
Supercardioid pattern isolates the target sound with surgical precision.
Self-noise floor
Ultra-quiet operation ensures pristine recordings even in the softest passages.
Frequency accuracy
Delivers a remarkably flat and transparent response across the entire spectrum.
SPL handling
Easily manages high-pressure sources without introducing unwanted distortion.
Build durability
Rugged construction designed to withstand the rigors of professional field production.
Proximity control
Switchable filters effectively manage bass buildup during close-up vocal work.
Key Specs
Type
Condenser Microphone
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Frequency Response
40 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
142 dB SPL
Operating Voltage
+48V Phantom Power
Impedance
150 ohm
Dimensions
ø: 25 x L: 153 mm
Weight
100 g
Features
- Supercardioid pattern for excellent off-axis rejection
- Consistent directivity across all frequencies
- Ultra-low self-noise for clean recordings
- High sensitivity captures subtle audio details
- Switchable pad for high sound pressure levels
- Roll-off filter manages proximity effects
- Symmetrical technology ensures low distortion
- Clear audio for recording and reinforcement
What customers say
Professionals consistently praise the Sennheiser MKH 50-P48 for its exceptional sonic transparency and extremely low self-noise, making it an industry standard for indoor dialogue capture. Users value its incredible accuracy in recording subtle acoustic details. The supercardioid pattern effectively rejects off-axis sound, minimizing room reflections crucial for challenging environments. Furthermore, its robust build quality ensures reliable performance even in high humidity. While the initial cost is significant, customers view this microphone as a necessary, long-term investment due to its superior results and longevity compared to lesser alternatives. It is widely regarded as essential professional equipment.
Know before you buy
Its super-cardioid polar pattern provides exceptional off-axis rejection, allowing you to isolate dialogue while effectively minimizing ambient noise from the sides. This makes it an industry standard for capturing clean, focused audio in challenging acoustic environments.
Yes, the MKH 50-P48 is a condenser microphone that requires +48V phantom power. You will need to connect it to an audio interface, mixer, or preamp that provides this power via an XLR cable.
The switchable roll-off filter is designed to manage the proximity effect, which is the unnatural bass boost that occurs when a sound source is very close to the microphone. Engaging this filter helps maintain a balanced, natural frequency response during close-miking applications.
Yes, it features a switchable pad that allows it to handle high sound pressure levels up to 142 dB SPL. This makes it versatile enough for both delicate vocal work and louder instrument recording without risking distortion.
It is highly versatile and performs excellently in both settings. While its directional accuracy is prized for film sets, its low self-noise and transparent sound reproduction make it a top-tier choice for studio vocal and instrument recording.
The microphone comes with a dedicated shock mount to reduce handling noise and a carrying case for secure transport and storage.
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