Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $527
High-end/Boutique
$75
$201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Sennheiser MD 431 II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Sennheiser MD 431 II is a dynamic microphone that transcends the ordinary. Revered as an exceptional vocal mic, it has earned a reputation as a secret weapon in the studio, particularly for recording snare drums, thanks to its bright, crisp sound. The MD 431 II is not just a live performance workhorse, it shines equally in studio settings, showcasing its versatile nature.
Its supercardioid design offers excellent noise rejection for clear, transparent sound, making it a stellar performer on stage. The tailored frequency response of the MD 431 II delivers added transparency, while its nearly frequency-independent polar pattern gifts it with high gain before feedback and uncolored off-axis response.
The MD 431 II doesn't compromise on durability either. Its rugged steel housing and steel mesh grille ensure it stands up to the rigours of the stage and studio. The shock-suspended capsule and humbucking coil significantly reduce handling and mechanical noise, ensuring your performances are captured as cleanly as possible.
Key Features:
- Supercardioid dynamic microphone for stage and studio use
- Exceptional feedback rejection
- Frequency response: 40Hz-18kHz
- Shock-mounted capsule for good handling noise rejection
- Hum compensating coil
- Integral pop filter
- Recessed and lockable On/Off switch
- Includes quick-release clamp
The Sennheiser MD 431 II is a powerhouse microphone that delivers professional performance, whether you're on stage or in the studio.
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Dynamic |
| Polar Pattern | Supercardioid |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz-18kHz |
| Output Impedance | 250 ohms |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 0.55 lbs. |
FAQs
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What is the polar pattern of the Sennheiser MD 431 II, and how does it affect performance?
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The Sennheiser MD 431 II has a supercardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent off-axis rejection. This makes it ideal for live performances, as it minimizes feedback and isolates the sound source from surrounding noise.
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Is the Sennheiser MD 431 II suitable for vocal performances?
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Yes, the Sennheiser MD 431 II is specifically designed as a handheld vocal microphone, offering a clear and natural sound that is highly suitable for both live and studio vocal performances.
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What is the frequency response range of the Sennheiser MD 431 II?
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The Sennheiser MD 431 II has a frequency response range of 40Hz to 18kHz, providing a wide spectrum that captures both the low and high ends, making it versatile for various vocal styles.
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Does the Sennheiser MD 431 II have an on/off switch?
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Yes, the Sennheiser MD 431 II features a convenient on/off switch on the microphone body, allowing easy muting during live performances or presentations.
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What type of connector does the Sennheiser MD 431 II use?
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The Sennheiser MD 431 II uses a standard XLR connector, ensuring compatibility with most professional audio equipment and sound systems.
Videos
Anton Browne
A Sennheiser Sorority - e965 vs e865 vs MD 431 II
Reviews
PROS
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Handles all levels of frequency in live music, sounds like studio performance
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Warmer vocal reproduction for deeper voices
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Lightweight with incredible sensitivity and power
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Can handle powerful vocals without popping
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Very easy to EQ on any desk
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Offers massive volume without feedback and minimal handling noise
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Highly directional, nearly eliminates feedback issues
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Smooth/warm sound with a huge frequency range response
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Noticeably flat sound without higher frequency boost
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Great feedback rejection, can push PA harder
CONS
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Plastic construction may concern some users
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Expensive compared to other options in its category
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On/off switch not preferred by all professionals
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Occasional slight distortion/booming at high volumes when close up
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sennheiser MD 431 II.
Comparisons
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The MD-431 II offers more headroom before feedback and is described as "dry" and flat compared to the e935, making it easier for sound adjustments.
Source
Value and pricing
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The MD-431 II is noted for its high price, but its performance justifies the cost according to users, who find it superior in live settings.
Source
User experience
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Owners appreciate the MD-431 II for its exceptional performance in loud rock band environments, offering clarity and feedback resistance.
Source
Build quality
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The MD 431 II is constructed from composite materials, giving it a lighter, more plasticky feel compared to models like the e835.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
606
My go to Vocal Mic.
Simply a highly versatile, smooth/warm sounding Mic with a huge frequency range response. A workhorse in the Music Industry for many decades and the main choice of my favourite Songwriting Couple the great Ashford & Simpson.
Artist usage
Add artist
On November 27, 1991 - Studio C, BBC Elstree Centre (Top of the Pops), Borehamwood, UK.
During the Top of the Pops, you can see during "Smells Like Teen Spirit" Kurt is using a Sennheiser MD 431 II Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone.
In this source Ian Beveridge lists what mics were used by FooFighters for the "In Your Honor" tour - "I've wanted to try a 431 on Dave's vocals for a long time," reveals longtime monitor engineer Ian Beveridge.
Geddy Lee used the Sennheiser MD 431 II microphone during their recent comeback gig in March 2026, as evidenced by the image found on Equipboard.
In a Mix online article on Bon Iver's Tour Profile FOH engineer Xandy Whitesel says the band uses Sennheiser MD431s.
Howard Bullivant thought that the MD 431 had slightly better rejection, and Polly choose it above the MD 441 to use for the festival shows. This is a show where the audibility of the vocal is crucial.
At the Reading Festival 2021, Alex Trimble of Two Door Cinema Club used the Sennheiser MD 431 II microphone, as reported by NME.
In an Instagram post by Willis on February 6, 2016, Kid Cudi is pictured using a Sennheiser MD 431 II microphone while playing an acoustic guitar and singing.
Various photos of Passenger's 2017 world tour (particularly the show in Toronto) show him using a Sennheiser MD 431-II as oppose to his previous tour's AKG D7.
Album Usage
The Sennheiser MD 431 II has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Sennheiser MD 431 II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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