Since launching at Germany’s Hannover Fair in 1960, Sennheiser’s legendary MD 421 (“mikrofon dynamische” ) cardioid dynamic microphone has been a go-to choice by engineers worldwide for accurately capturing broadcast vocals and a wide range of musical instruments. Capable of handling high-SPL sources, the MD 421 provided the ability to accurately capture sonic details, yet it had a few quirks. As Sennheiser engineers responded to user comments and input, improvements made to the original model evolved into the MD 421-II.
With the development of the new MD 421 Kompakt, Sennheiser offers a fresh new look on the legendary MD 421 without affecting its well-known audio performance and durability.
Same Sound, New Look
Like its predecessor, the MD 421 Kompakt offers transparent sound reproduction with a wide 30 Hz to 17 kHz response. An innovative internal bass tube design offers extended low-frequency range for rich bass without affecting the mid-high transparency. Its tight cardioid polar pattern and excellent off-axis rejection, suppresses feedback while focusing on the desired sound source. The rugged dynamic capsule easily handles extreme SPLs without overload, while still sensitive enough to capture subtle nuances. And, like the original MD 421, the capsule is protected by a rugged mesh basket backed by a stainless-steel micromesh screen that minimizes wind noise and breath plosives.
They Shrunk My 421!
As the name states, the new MD 421 Kompakt is about three inches shorter than the original. The streamlined, compact size allows for easy positioning on drums and other instruments, while the MZH drum clip can be used to attach the mic directly to drum rims.
Incorporating precise German engineering and decades of audio experience, the MD 421 Kompakt is constructed of rugged, lightweight, high-impact materials designed to withstand the rigors of the road. The microphone housing features a low-reflective black finish while a protective inner chassis reduces exposure to dust and humidity, preserving performance and longevity. A steel connector assembly with gold plated XLR-M insert offers solid electrical connectivity.
One of the quirks addressed in the MD 421 Kompakt was the removal of the fabled music / speech filter switch. I can’t say how many times I accidentally moved this switch to “speech” while connecting and placing an MD 421 and can honestly say I don’t know anyone who ever used the speech setting. Thank you Sennheiser!
It’s All About the Mount…
With the new MD 421 Kompakt, Sennheiser engineers addressed the quirky mount of its predecessor by eliminating the slide-in, click fast release button. (No more paper clips and gaffer tape to secure the mic!) The new simple but effective swivel mount is permanently attached to the mic body and features a unique double-thread arrangement incorporating both 5/8×27 and 3/8” threads. I can easily attach my MD 421 Kompakt to any type of mic stand without the need for a thread adapter insert. I’d like to see this concept applied to other mics in their lineup.
Kompakt in Action…
My review sample arrived in eco-friendly packaging. Included with the microphone were the MZH Drum clip, drawstring protective bag, quick start setup guide/spec sheet and safety guide. I set the MD 421 Kompakt up in my studio for a quick talk-out test, comparing it to one of my original MD 421s. With both channels set to the same input trim and the EQ disengaged, I noticed no sonic difference between the mics. Right away, I could see how the compact size and lighter weight will make the MD 421 Kompakt more desirable for many applications.
I attached the MZH drum clip and mounted the MD 421 Kompakt to one of the toms on my house kit. I did find this clip to be a bit fiddly to attach than similar clips I own, but it was not a deal-breaker. The mic accurately captured the tone of the drum and easily handled the high SPL. Having a full complement of these mics in my kit would make miking drums a breeze.
At a big band jazz gig, I used the MD 421 Kompakt for trumpet solo. The mic easily handled anything the horn player threw at it and the compact size worked well on this crowded stage. At the next jazz gig, I tried it on guitar amp. Located slightly off axis on the amp’s speaker, the MD 421 Kompakt delivered the sonic detail and clarity expected from an MD 421.
For an orchestra gig, I tried it first on cello. Again, the compact size benefitted me by keeping the mic out of the players way, while still providing effective coverage of her instrument. The wide response easily captured the full range of the cello and tight off-axis response minimized stage bleed. I was pleased with the MD 421 Kompakt’s performance, although having only one mic and six cellos, I went back to my normal cello mics for consistency.
I moved the MD 421 Kompakt to cover the harp solo. Again, the compact size made it easy to place and the wide dynamic range enabled me to capture the range and detail of the harp, while the tight cardioid pattern and excellent off-axis rejection minimized bleed from the nearby celeste. I was very pleased with the sound on the harp solo and heard several favorable comments on the sound from friends in the audience.
The Final Verdict…
Sonically, the MD 421 Kompakt matches my legendary MD421’s and its Kompakt size and light weight make it a joy to position on a crowded stage. I really like the new swivel mount, as I no longer worry about some errant musician accidentally hitting a release lever, dropping the mic to the floor. Plus, the dual-thread mount eliminates easily lost thread adapters. Since I never used the “speech” filter on my MD 421s, I was happy to see that quirk go away.
The drum clip was slightly hard to attach to some drums, so I opted for my other clips. I’m also not a big fan of the drawstring storage bag, and would prefer a zipper pouch, as they work better in my mic road case.
With the new MD 421 Kompakt, Sennheiser has built upon a microphone legend without affecting sonic performance, making a product truly worthy of carrying on the MD 421 pedigree. I could easily add a dozen of these wonderful mics to my road case, and they wouldn’t take up much space. Bravo, Sennheiser!
Legendary Sound, Kompakt Size
Sennheiser’s MD 421 Kompakt dynamic microphone delivers the legendary performance of the original MD 421 in a compact form factor with redesigned mount.
Sennheiser MD 421Kompakt Dynamic Microphone
PROS
- Legendary MD 421 sound
- Easily handles high SPLs
- Easy-to-position compact form factor
- Integral swivel mount
- Accommodates 5/8×27 & 3/8” stands without insert
CONS
- Drum clip can be fiddly to attach to rim
- Not a fan of drawstring storage bags
SPECS
- Type: Dynamic
- Performance: Vocal / Instrument
- Directional Character: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz – 17k Hz
- Sensitivity: 2.0mV/Pa
- Impedance: 250 Ohms
- Connector: XLR-3M
- Color: Black
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 129 x 49 x 84mm
- Weight: 160 grams
- Street Prices: MD 421 Kompakt with drum clip, $299; Mic only, $279; MZH drum clip, $20
Manufacturer: Sennheiser
More Info: www.sennheiser.com
