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Wide Frequency Response Range
The Schoeps MK 21 microphone offers an extensive frequency response from 30 Hz to 29 kHz, extendable to 44 kHz with the CMC 6xt, ensuring high-fidelity audio capture across a broad spectrum.
KEY FEATURES
The Schoeps MK 21 is a wide cardioid condenser microphone capsule offering a frequency response from 30 Hz to 29 kHz (or up to 44 kHz with the CMC 6xt), 14 mV/Pa sensitivity, and an equivalent noise level of 13 dB(A), making it a high-fidelity, low-noise solution for precision audio capture.
Polar Pattern and Sound Characteristics
The MK 21 features a wide cardioid polar pattern that sits between omnidirectional and cardioid, providing both directivity and warmth. This hybrid pattern delivers a smooth low-frequency response superior to that of standard cardioids and significantly reduces proximity effect. The capsule’s consistent polar behaviour across the frequency spectrum ensures accurate capture of lateral direct sound and room reflections without introducing tonal coloration.
Applications and Usage
Engineers frequently use the MK 21 as a main microphone or soloist mic due to its natural tonality and subtle directional control. In stereo configurations, it performs effectively in near-coincident setups, particularly with a spacing of 30 cm and an angle of ±45°, where it provides spatial realism with minimal phasing. However, its low directivity index makes it unsuitable for traditional X/Y stereo, while MS recording and spot miking at closer distances remain viable options.
Build and Finish
With a compact profile measuring 22 mm in length and 20 mm in diameter, the capsule weighs only 17 grams. It comes in a matte grey finish with optional colours such as Chromagreen and Smoked Silver, the latter emulating the classic Schoeps nickel aesthetic. The MK 21 supports a maximum SPL of 131 dB at <0.5% THD, making it suitable for a wide range of acoustic environments.
- Wide cardioid polar pattern combining the advantages of omni and cardioid
- Frequency response from 30 Hz to 29 kHz (44 kHz with CMC 6xt)
- Sensitivity of 14 mV/Pa with low 13 dB(A) equivalent noise
- Consistent polar response ensures natural off-axis sound capture
- Ideal for main mic, soloists, MS, and near-coincident pairs
- Maximum SPL of 131 dB with less pronounced proximity effect
- Compact and lightweight at 17 g with matte or custom finish options
- UK over £99 FREE
- UK under £99 £10
- EU £36
- Rest of World £80
Large/Heavy items: Extra charges may apply (e.g., consoles, large monitors). We’ll contact you before processing if so.
We ship with DPD and UPS across the UK, EU and worldwide. Same-day within the M25 is available depending on stock.
This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.
You can contact them here.
KEY BENEFITS
Hybrid Polar Pattern
Featuring a wide cardioid polar pattern, the MK 21 combines the benefits of omnidirectional and cardioid mics. It captures sound with directivity and warmth while maintaining smooth low-frequency response and minimizing proximity effect.
Versatile and Compact Design
This microphone is not only lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle and position, but its low directivity index also makes it ideal for various recording settings, from solo performances to stereo configurations.