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Sennheiser MD 421-N

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$220.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (7)

1 Review

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2 community setups

8 wishlisted

36 saved

Page last updated Jun 21, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 21, 2026.

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5.0 (29)

$220.00 16 available Used

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Average Price: $220

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

In the Dynamic Microphones category, Sennheiser MD 421-N is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Experience the rich, vintage sound that has been cherished by musicians since the 60s with the Sennheiser MD 421-N. This dynamic microphone is renowned for its tight cardioid polar pattern, almost venturing into the supercardioid range at certain frequencies, giving you unparalleled control over your sound capture. Its crystal-clear sound reproduction remains unmatched by most contemporary dynamic mics. The MD 421-N model is equipped with a 3-pin DIN connector and a unique switchable high-pass filter, giving you the flexibility to switch from full bandwidth for music to attenuating lower frequencies for speech.

Key Features: - Tight cardioid polar pattern that borders on "supercardioid" at many frequencies - Switchable high-pass filter with "M" for music (full bandwidth) and "S" for speech (low frequencies attenuated) - Equipped with a 3-pin DIN connector - Clear and present sound reproduction, superior to most dynamic mics of its era.

Product specs

Brand	Sennheiser
Model	MD 421-N Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Finish	White
Year	1960s
Made In	Germany
Categories	Microphones
Electronics	Passive
Microphone Type	Dynamic
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Wired/Wireless	Wired

FAQs

What is the Sennheiser MD 421-N primarily used for?: The Sennheiser MD 421-N is ideal for capturing high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for recording electric guitars, drums, and brass instruments. Its cardioid pattern and robust construction also make it a favorite for broadcasting and voiceovers.
Does the Sennheiser MD 421-N require phantom power?: No, the Sennheiser MD 421-N is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.
How does the Sennheiser MD 421-N handle low-frequency sounds?: The MD 421-N features a five-position bass roll-off switch, allowing users to adjust low-frequency response, making it versatile for different recording scenarios.
Is the Sennheiser MD 421-N suitable for live performances?: Yes, the MD 421-N's durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels make it an excellent choice for live performances as well as studio recordings.
What is the polar pattern of the Sennheiser MD 421-N?: The Sennheiser MD 421-N has a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source while reducing background noise.

Videos

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rukamisound

(5150 + Recto Cab) Sennheiser MD421: Modern (II) vs. Vintage (N) A/B Test

rukamisound

Sennheiser MD421-N on Snare - Pearl IP1465 14"x6,5"

AmpsOnAir

Reviews

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PROS

Versatile for a wide range of instruments and vocals
Captures all frequencies of drums with excellent quality
Durable and robust design
Smooth sound quality on vocals and bass
Distinct mid-range focus, ideal for certain vocals and instruments
Historically proven performance on iconic recordings

CONS

Limited filter settings compared to newer models
Slightly less bottom and top end compared to other versions

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sennheiser MD 421-N.

Features and functionality

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The MD421-2 lacks the M/S filter knob found on other models, which affects its usage flexibility.
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The MD 421 has a 4-position rotary switch for EQ settings, labeled "M" for music (full frequency) and "S" for speech, which is often overlooked by users.
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The original MD-421 N uses a 3-pin DIN / Klein Tuchel connector, necessitating a specific adapter for modern use.
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User experience

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While the MD 421 is often preferred for male voiceovers, it's noted for its slightly punchier and warmer sound compared to an SM57.
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There's a significant variability in sound between old MD421 units, indicating possible inconsistencies in manufacturing or aging effects.
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Owners note sentimental value in maintaining the original cable, opting for new adapter cables to preserve the original setup.
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Build quality

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The built-in mic clip of the MD 421 is frequently criticized for its fragility, requiring caution to avoid accidental drops.
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Use cases and applications

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The mic is praised for its versatility across genres, excelling on brass, percussion, and even as overheads for mallet instruments like marimbas and vibes.
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It’s popular for toms, with some users reducing cymbal bleed by cupping the grill with foam, creating a U-shape around the mic.
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Known for blending well with an SM57, the MD 421 is often used on guitar amps and provides a distinctive tone suitable more for classic rock than modern hard rock.
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The MD 421 is favored for its chest-punch kick drum sound, particularly when EQ'd with a boost between 60-120Hz.
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Vintage MD421-Ns are preferred for guitar cabs, offering smoother highs and dirtier mids compared to modern versions.
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Older MD421s are favored for thickening electric amp mic'ing during live sound due to their mellow character in the upper mids.
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Setup and maintenance

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The MD-421 N may have aging internal components due to storage, and users suggest inspecting the mic for any degradation before use.
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Comparisons

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Vintage MD421-Ns are described as fuller between 1k-3k Hz and slightly attenuated above 5k Hz compared to modern MD421-IIs.
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The MD421-2 is reportedly duller and more nasal compared to both vintage MD421-N and modern MD421-II models.
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