SENNHEISER MKH815 Shotgun Directional Microphone Great

( Brand: Sennheiser ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: MKH815 ), ( Model: SENNHEISER MKH815 ), ( Part Type: Microphone ), ( Form Factor: Shotgun Microphone ), ( Polar Pattern: Shotgun-hypercardioid ), ( Connectivity: Wired ), ( Diaphragm Size: Small ), ( Transducer Type: Condenser ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany )

Review SENNHEISER Shotgun Directional Microphone Accessories In Great Shape

The **Sennheiser MKH 815** is a legendary shotgun microphone renowned for its unparalleled precision, clarity, and versatility, making it an indispensable tool for professional audio capture across a wide range of applications. Designed with a **supercardioid polar pattern**, this microphone excels at isolating sound sources with exceptional rejection of off-axis noise, ensuring that every word, instrument, or environmental detail is captured with remarkable fidelity. Its **highly directional response** is particularly well-suited for field recording, film and television production, podcasting, and live sound applications where background interference could otherwise compromise audio quality. The MKH 815 features a **low-mass diaphragm** and a **highly sensitive preamplifier**, delivering a flat frequency response from **20 Hz to 20 kHz** with minimal distortion, allowing for crystal-clear reproduction of both deep bass and delicate highs. Its **rugged, all-metal construction** ensures durability in demanding environments, from bustling streets to remote outdoor shoots, while the **integrated shock mount** helps dampen handling noise for smoother recordings.

One of the standout features of the MKH 815 is its **adjustable high-pass filter**, which can be set to **80 Hz or 160 Hz** to suppress unwanted low-frequency rumble, such as wind noise or equipment vibrations, without sacrificing the warmth of the lower mids. This flexibility is especially valuable in dynamic environments where ambient noise is a concern. The microphone s **XLR output** is paired with a **balanced, low-noise cable**, ensuring clean signal transmission even over long distances, while its **phantom-powered preamplifier** (operating at 48V) guarantees consistent performance across a variety of audio interfaces and mixers. For those working in challenging conditions, the MKH 815 can be paired with Sennheiser s **Windshield System (WS8)** to mitigate wind noise, making it a reliable choice for outdoor recordings.

Beyond its technical prowess, the MKH 815 is celebrated for its **minimalist yet professional build**, with a sleek, black finish that blends seamlessly into any production setup. Its **compact yet robust design** allows for easy mounting on booms, tripods, or rigs, while the **integrated handle** provides a secure grip for handheld use. Whether you're capturing dialogue for a feature film, recording ambient soundscapes for a documentary, or enhancing podcast audio with studio-quality clarity, the MKH 815 delivers a level of precision and reliability that sets it apart from conventional microphones. Its reputation among audio professionals is built on decades of innovation, making it a trusted choice for those who demand nothing less than excellence in sound capture. For anyone serious about audio production, the Sennheiser MKH 815 is not just a microphone it s a cornerstone of professional-grade recording.

The **Sennheiser MKH 815** is a high-end shotgun microphone known for its exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility in professional audio applications. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Sennheiser MKH 815**

1. **Superior Sound Quality**

The MKH 815 is renowned for its flat, accurate frequency response and excellent transient handling. It captures sound with minimal coloration, making it ideal for dialogue recording, voice-over work, and field recording where clarity is critical.

2. **Directional Pattern (Supercardioid)**

Its supercardioid polar pattern provides strong rejection of off-axis sound while maintaining sensitivity to the desired audio source. This makes it highly effective in noisy environments, such as outdoor shoots or live events, where isolating the subject is essential.

3. **Durability and Build Quality**

Sennheiser is known for robust construction, and the MKH 815 is no exception. It is built to withstand harsh conditions, including dust, moisture, and physical stress, making it suitable for fieldwork and long-term use.

4. **Low Self-Noise**

With a self-noise level of just 12 dBA, the MKH 815 produces minimal internal noise, ensuring clean recordings even in quiet environments. This is particularly valuable for voice-over work or recording in low-decibel settings.

5. **Versatility**

- **Film/TV production** (dialogue, ADR, and location recording)

- **Podcasting and voice-over work** (due to its clarity and low noise)

- **Field recording** (nature sounds, interviews, and ambient audio)

- **Live sound reinforcement** (for critical vocals or instruments)

6. **Compatibility**

It works seamlessly with most professional audio interfaces, mixers, and recording setups. The included **Sennheiser MZW 45** shock mount and **windshield** (or optional **Deadcat windscreen**) further enhance its usability in various environments.

7. **Long-Term Reliability**

Sennheiser microphones are known for their longevity. The MKH 815, with proper care, can last decades, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals who prioritize durability.

8. **Professional Reputation**

The MKH 815 is a staple in the industry, trusted by sound engineers, filmmakers, and podcasters worldwide. Its presence on sets and in studios speaks to its credibility.

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### **Cons of the Sennheiser MKH 815**

1. **High Cost**

The MKH 815 is an expensive microphone, typically priced between **$1,200 and $1,500** (depending on the retailer and bundle options). This makes it a significant investment, especially for beginners or hobbyists on a budget.

2. **Noisy in Very Quiet Environments**

While its self-noise is low by professional standards, it may still introduce noticeable background noise in extremely quiet recordings (e.g., whispering or delicate acoustic instruments). In such cases, a **preamp with ultra-low noise** (e.g., Cloudlifter or Focusrite ISA One) can help.

3. **Not Ideal for Broad Sound Capture**

Due to its supercardioid pattern, the MKH 815 is not suitable for capturing wide or ambient sound. If you need a microphone for stereo recording or wide-angle pickup, alternatives like the **Sony C800G** or **Rode NTG-5** may be more appropriate.

4. **Requires Proper Technique**

Like all shotgun mics, the MKH 815 benefits from careful positioning and boom arm handling. Poor placement can lead to proximity effect, uneven pickup, or unwanted noise. This requires skill and practice, especially in field recording.

5. **No Built-in Phantom Power**

The MKH 815 itself does not require phantom power, but it must be connected to an interface or mixer that provides it. This is standard for most professional mics, but it s worth noting for beginners unfamiliar with audio setups.

6. **Weight and Bulk**

While not excessively heavy, the MKH 815 is larger and heavier than some handheld or small-diaphragm mics. This can make it less convenient for certain applications, such as handheld interviews or travel recording, unless paired with a sturdy boom pole.

7. **Limited Frequency Response for Some Uses**

While its flat response is an asset for most applications, some users may find it lacks the subtle warmth or presence of other mics (e.g., the **Schoeps CMC6** or **DPA 4099**) in certain vocal or instrumental contexts. However, this is subjective and depends on the desired sound.

8. **Accessories Can Be Expensive**

While the microphone comes with a shock mount and windshield, high-quality alternatives (e.g., **Sennheiser MZW 45** upgrades or **Deadcat windscreens**) can add to the overall cost.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Sennheiser MKH 815** is one of the best shotgun microphones available, offering unmatched clarity, durability, and professional-grade performance. Its strengths lie in its **accuracy, directional control, and reliability**, making it an indispensable tool for filmmakers, podcasters, and audio engineers who demand the highest quality.

However, its **high cost, niche use cases, and requirement for proper technique** may not make it the best choice for everyone. Beginners or those on a tight budget might consider more affordable alternatives like the **Rode NTG-5** or **Sony C800G**, which offer similar performance at a lower price. Conversely, professionals who prioritize **long-term investment, durability, and pristine sound quality** will find the MKH 815 well worth the expense.

If you are working in **film production, voice-over, or field recording** and can justify the cost, the MKH 815 is a **top-tier microphone** that will serve you exceptionally well for years to come.

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### **Final Recommendation**

- You are a professional filmmaker, sound engineer, or podcaster who needs **uncompromising clarity and durability**.

- You frequently work in **noisy environments** where directional control is critical.

- You are willing to invest in a **long-term, high-quality microphone** that will last decades.

- You prioritize **low self-noise and accurate sound reproduction** over subtle tonal coloration.

- You are a **beginner or hobbyist** with a limited budget (e.g., **Rode NTG-5, Sony C800G, or Audio-Technica AT897**).

- You need **wide or stereo recording capabilities** (e.g., **Schoeps CMC6, DPA 4099**).

- You require **portability or handheld use** (e.g., **Shure VP83, Sennheiser MKH 416**).

For most serious audio professionals, the **MKH 815 is a no-brainer** its reputation is well-earned, and its performance justifies its price. However, always pair it with a **high-quality preamp (e.g., Cloudlifter CL-1, Focusrite ISA One)** to maximize its potential.

Details:

Also, a new German 15 ft. New Phantom 48 Volt Power cable or power directly from any T-power, 12V source. Also included is an original factory shock mount, used but in near-new condition. Extremely directional true condenser Microphone in excellent condition, as used movies, sports, news, etc.

This was my personal microphone when I worked in Hollywood as a recording engineer. 4.6m microphone cable. Tested and working-sounds great.

part #: mkh815 prices

• $165.00-$800.00

specifications micwisys:

• brand: Sennheiser
• mpn: Mkh815
• model: Sennheiser Mkh815
• part type: Microphone
• form factor: Shotgun Microphone
• polar pattern: Shotgun-hypercardioid
• connectivity: Wired
• diaphragm size: Small
• transducer type: Condenser
• country of origin: Germany

seller micwisys:

• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 302
• city: Longmont, Colorado

returns micwisys:

• policy: No Returns

offer micwisys:

• quantity: 1
• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: March 31, 2026

payments micwisys:

• wallet: Paypal
• credit card: Visa
• other

general micwisys:

• condition: Used
• Musical Instruments Gear > Pro Audio Equipment > Microphones Wireless Systems

shipping micwisys:

• class: Standard
• transit: 4-10 Days
• type: Calculated
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• carrier: USPS
• cost: $12.94

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