Sennheiser
e965
Best premium vocal microphone for professional live performances.
The Sennheiser e 965 is a professional, hand-held vocal microphone featuring a true condenser capsule with large-diaphragm technology. It excels in high on-stage level environments, combining the best attributes of a stage microphone with Sennheiser's acoustic expertise. This microphone offers switchable pick-up patterns (cardioid/super-cardioid), a low-cut switch, and a switchable pre-attenuation pad (-10 dB). It also includes an integrated acoustic pop filter and windshield, effective moisture protection, and a shock-mounted capsule for superior handling noise suppression.
$599.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+18%
Above average
Who it's for
- Professional vocalists and performers seeking pristine, detailed live sound reproduction.
- Engineers and vocalists needing flexibility for diverse live performance scenarios.
- Touring musicians and sound crews requiring reliable, long-lasting stage equipment.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians or venues seeking more affordable, entry-level vocal microphone options.
- Users with basic audio setups or older equipment lacking phantom power capabilities.
- Performers with active stage movements or those without proper mic technique training.
Performance breakdown
Vocal clarity
Captures nuanced high-end detail with exceptional studio-grade precision.
Feedback rejection
Supercardioid pattern keeps unwanted stage noise firmly at bay.
Build durability
Rugged metal housing withstands the rigors of constant touring.
Handling noise
Internal shock mounting effectively minimizes vibrations from handheld use.
Dynamic range
Handles loud vocal peaks without sacrificing subtle, quiet passages.
Switchable settings
Low-cut filter and sensitivity pad offer essential control for live environments.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the e965 for its exceptional sound quality, noting its remarkable clarity and detailed vocal reproduction. Many users highlight its robust build, appreciating the microphone's durable construction and reliable performance in various live and studio settings. The consistent high fidelity and dependable operation make it a favored choice for discerning vocalists and audio professionals seeking premium performance.
Know before you buy
The cardioid setting provides a wider pickup area, making it more forgiving for singers who move around the mic. The super-cardioid setting is much more directional, which helps isolate the voice and significantly reduces the risk of feedback in loud stage environments.
Yes, because it is a true condenser microphone, it requires 48V phantom power from your mixing console or audio interface to function.
While it is designed as a high-end stage microphone, its large-diaphragm condenser capsule delivers the detail and clarity expected in a studio setting. It is an excellent choice for vocalists who want a consistent sound from the rehearsal room to the recording booth.
The e965 is engineered to handle very high SPLs without distorting, making it capable of capturing powerful vocalists or loud instruments. It offers the sensitivity of a condenser while maintaining the robust handling characteristics required for professional live use.
Yes, there is a switchable low-cut filter on the microphone. You should engage it to reduce unwanted rumble, stage vibrations, or excessive proximity effect when the singer is very close to the capsule.
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