Sennheiser
Sennheiser e 865
Best condenser microphone for professional vocal clarity and stage reliability.
This professional super-cardioid vocal microphone delivers studio-quality sound for live performances. It offers a rich, detailed audio profile with exceptional rejection of feedback and handling noise. Engineered to handle high sound pressure levels, its condenser capsule is protected by a blast/pop plate. The durable, rugged metal body is built for demanding stage use, making it an ideal choice for vocalists seeking clarity and impact in live settings.
$237.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 3374
#272 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Frequency Response
4020000
/ - Hz
Who it's for
- Vocalists prioritizing pristine, articulate sound reproduction in live settings.
- Performers in high-volume environments needing clear vocals without unwanted noise.
- Touring musicians and venues requiring reliable, long-lasting performance gear.
Who should skip it
- Users with simpler setups or limited access to phantom power sources.
- Energetic performers who frequently adjust or move their microphone.
- Budget-conscious musicians or those outfitting multiple vocalists.
Performance breakdown
Vocal Clarity
Condenser capsule captures nuanced detail that dynamic mics often miss.
Feedback Rejection
Super-cardioid pattern keeps unwanted stage noise firmly at bay.
Build Durability
Rugged metal construction survives the rigors of constant touring.
Handling Noise Control
Internal shock mounting effectively dampens vibrations from active performers.
SPL Handling
Easily manages loud vocalists without distorting the signal path.
Ease of Setup
Standard phantom power requirements make integration into any rig seamless.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
40 - 20000 Hz
Sensitivity
3 mV/Pa
Min. terminating impedance
1000 Ohm
Dimensions
47 x 193 mm
Weight w/o cable
311 g
Phantom powering
12 - 48 V
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Microphone Type
Condenser
Know before you buy
Yes, because the e 865 is a condenser microphone, it requires phantom power between 12 and 48 volts to function. Ensure your mixer or audio interface can provide this power before connecting.
The super-cardioid polar pattern is highly directional, meaning it focuses tightly on the sound source directly in front of it. This design is excellent for isolating your vocals and provides superior rejection of feedback from stage monitors compared to standard cardioid mics.
Absolutely. It is engineered to handle high sound pressure levels without distorting, and its condenser capsule is protected by a built-in blast and pop plate to manage plosives. Its rugged metal construction also ensures it can withstand the rigors of frequent gigging.
As a condenser microphone, the e 865 captures a much more detailed, nuanced, and 'studio-like' frequency response than typical dynamic microphones. It is particularly effective if you want to capture subtle vocal textures or require extra clarity in a dense mix.
The e 865 is specifically designed to minimize handling noise, making it a reliable choice for vocalists who like to hold the mic while performing. While no handheld mic is entirely immune to movement, this model is well-damped to keep unwanted thumps and vibrations out of your signal.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.