Sennheiser e 838 II-s Dynamic Cardioid Microphone

The Sennheiser e 838 II-s is a dynamic cardioid microphone renowned for its robust construction and exceptional audio quality, making it an ideal choice for both live performances and studio recordings. This microphone is part of Sennheiser’s Evolution series, known for its reliable performance and durability.

Key Features:

1. Dynamic Cardioid Design: The e 838 II-s features a dynamic cardioid pickup pattern, which effectively isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise and feedback. This makes it perfect for vocalists and instruments in live settings.
2. Enhanced Frequency Response: With a frequency response tailored for vocals, the e 838 II-s captures clear and detailed sound. The midrange is particularly well-defined, ensuring that vocals cut through the mix without sounding harsh.
3. Integrated Shockmount: The microphone incorporates an advanced internal shockmount system that reduces handling noise, making it suitable for handheld use during performances.
4. Rugged Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of live performances, the e 838 II-s features a robust metal housing and a hardened steel mesh grille, ensuring long-lasting durability.
5. On/Off Switch: The “s” in the model name stands for the on/off switch, providing users with the convenience to mute the microphone when not in use without affecting the settings on the mixing console.
6. Superior Feedback Rejection: The microphone’s design includes a hum compensating coil, which helps to reduce electrical interference and ensures a clean, noise-free output.

Applications:

• Live Vocals: The e 838 II-s is ideal for live vocal performances, offering clarity and presence that make vocals stand out in a mix.
• Instruments: Suitable for a range of instruments, from guitars to brass, due to its wide frequency response and high SPL handling.
• Public Speaking: The on/off switch and clarity make it a great choice for speeches and presentations.
• Recording: While primarily designed for live use, the e 838 II-s can also deliver quality recordings in a studio setting, especially for demos or practice sessions.

Technical Specifications:

• Transducer Principle: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 18 kHz
• Sensitivity: 2.7 mV/Pa
• Nominal Impedance: 350 Ohms
• Connector: XLR-3
• Dimensions: 47 x 181 mm (diameter x length)
• Weight: Approximately 330 grams

In summary, the Sennheiser e 838 II-s is a versatile, high-quality microphone that delivers excellent sound reproduction and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals in various audio environments.

Design and Build Quality

The Sennheiser e 838II-S boasts a sleek and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold during extended performances. The microphone’s metal body is both aesthetically pleasing and highly durable. The hardened steel mesh grille provides excellent protection for the capsule, ensuring it remains intact even if the microphone is dropped or subjected to rough handling.

The internal shock-mount system is a standout feature, as it significantly reduces handling noise, a common issue in live performances. This system isolates the microphone capsule from vibrations and handling sounds, resulting in a cleaner and more focused sound.

Sound Performance

The sound quality of the Sennheiser e 838II-S is where it truly shines. The microphone’s dynamic capsule delivers a warm and natural sound, with a clear and present midrange that is perfect for vocals. The extended frequency response ensures that all vocal nuances are captured, from the deep lows to the shimmering highs.

The cardioid pickup pattern is highly effective in rejecting off-axis sound, which helps to minimize feedback and unwanted background noise. This makes the e 838II-S an excellent choice for live performances in noisy environments or on stages with multiple sound sources.

Application and Versatility

The Sennheiser e 838II-S is designed primarily for vocal applications, but its versatility allows it to be used in various other scenarios. It is well-suited for:

1. Live Vocals: The microphone’s clarity and feedback rejection make it ideal for lead and backing vocals in live performances.
2. Speech and Presentations: The natural sound and handling noise reduction features make it a good choice for speeches and presentations.
3. Recording: While primarily a live microphone, the e 838II-S can also be used for recording vocals in home studios, providing a robust and clear sound.

Comparison with Other Microphones

When comparing the Sennheiser e 838II-S with other microphones in its class, several key points stand out. For example, compared to the Shure SM58, another industry standard for live vocals, the e 838II-S offers a slightly more extended frequency response and a different tonal character. While both microphones are highly durable and reliable, the choice between them often comes down to personal preference and specific sound requirements.

Dynamic Capsule

The core of the Sennheiser e 838II-S is its dynamic capsule. Dynamic microphones are known for their durability and ability to handle high SPL without distortion. This makes them ideal for live sound applications, where the microphone might be subjected to loud vocals and instruments. The dynamic capsule in the e 838II-S is designed to provide a balanced and natural sound, with a focus on midrange clarity and presence.

Cardioid Pickup Pattern

The cardioid pickup pattern is essential for live performance microphones. It captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This directional characteristic helps to isolate the vocalist’s voice from other sound sources on stage, reducing the likelihood of feedback and minimizing background noise. The cardioid pattern also allows the performer to move around the microphone without significant changes in sound quality.

Frequency Response

The e 838II-S has a frequency response of 40 Hz to 18 kHz. This wide range ensures that the microphone can capture the full spectrum of the human voice, from deep bass notes to high-frequency harmonics. The extended high-frequency response provides a clear and detailed sound, which is particularly important for vocals. It allows the microphone to capture the nuances of a singer’s performance, delivering a natural and expressive sound.

Internal Shock-Mount System

Handling noise can be a significant issue in live performances, where microphones are often moved around or held in the hand. The internal shock-mount system in the e 838II-S isolates the capsule from these vibrations, reducing handling noise and ensuring a clean audio signal. This system is particularly effective at minimizing low-frequency rumble and thumps, which can be distracting and degrade the overall sound quality.

Integrated Hum Compensation Coil

In live performance environments, electromagnetic interference from stage lights, power cables, and other electronic devices can cause hum and noise in the microphone signal. The integrated hum compensation coil in the e 838II-S helps to counteract this interference, providing a cleaner and more stable signal. This feature is especially important in complex stage setups where multiple electronic devices are in use.

On/Off Switch

The inclusion of an on/off switch adds a layer of control for the performer. It allows the microphone to be quickly muted when not in use, preventing unwanted sounds from being picked up. This feature is particularly useful in live settings where multiple microphones are used, and some may need to be turned off at different times during the performance.

Durability and Build Quality

Sennheiser microphones are known for their robust construction, and the e 838II-S is no exception. The metal body and hardened steel mesh grille provide excellent protection for the internal components, ensuring that the microphone can withstand the rigors of touring and live performances. The build quality not only enhances durability but also gives the microphone a professional and sleek appearance.