Home
... Musical Instruments
Studio Recording Gear
Microphones & Accessories
Dynamic Microphones
Sennheiser
Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp

Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp main image

Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp image 2

Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp image 3

Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp

$275.00 to $319.00 Price Tier: High-end

7 Critic Reviews

All time low price

0 wishlisted

0 saved

Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.5 (8)

$319.00

View Deal

$275.00

View Deal

4.3 (7)

$275.00 New

$255.54 Used (Like New)

View Deal

$275.00 8 available New

$229.99 4 available Used

View Deal

$319.00

View Deal

$319.00 $275.00 $44.00 · All time low

View Deal

Average Price: $281

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

In the Dynamic Microphones category, Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

The Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp is a powerhouse in a pint-sized package. Revered by sound engineers and musicians alike, this microphone is the modern rendition of the legendary MD 421, now more versatile and compact. Equipped with the same dynamic capsule as its iconic predecessor, it offers crystal-clear sound reproduction and exceptional feedback rejection, making it ideal for miking drums, guitar amps, and even brass instruments. The redesigned clip securely affixes to the microphone, ensuring stability during energetic live performances or rigorous studio sessions.

Built with rugged German engineering, the MD421 Kompact is ready to handle the rigors of touring and heavy studio use. Its streamlined profile allows for easy placement, even in cramped spaces, without sacrificing sound quality. Whether you're capturing the thunderous boom of a floor tom or the searing wail of a guitar amp, this mic delivers consistent, reliable performance. With its newly integrated mic clip and the MZH drum microphone clip, the MD421 Kompact offers a worry-free solution for precise and secure drum miking. This microphone is not just a tool—it's an enduring piece of musical history in a modern, reliable form.

Key Features:

Iconic MD 421 performance in a compact design
High SPL handling for loud sources like drums and guitar amps
Cardioid pickup pattern for focused sound capture
Redesigned, secure mic clip for stable mounting
Rugged build for touring and studio use
Wide frequency response of 30Hz–17kHz
Includes MZH drum microphone clip for versatile drum miking

Product specs

Microphone Type	Dynamic
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Frequency Response	30Hz-17kHz
Output Impedance	250 ohms
Connector	XLR
Included Accessories	Drum Mic Clip

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone?: The Sennheiser MD421 Kompact is primarily used for capturing drums and other loud sound sources due to its excellent feedback rejection and high SPL handling. It is also suitable for broadcasting and recording in professional studios.
How does the cardioid polar pattern of the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact benefit recording?: The cardioid polar pattern of the MD421 Kompact effectively isolates the sound source by rejecting off-axis noise, making it ideal for live and studio settings where feedback and background noise need to be minimized.
Is the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact suitable for vocal recording?: While the MD421 Kompact can be used for vocals, some users find it less flattering for lead vocals due to its midrange dip and upper-frequency bite, which might make vocals sound edgy or nasal compared to large-diaphragm condenser microphones.
What are the connectivity options for the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact?: The Sennheiser MD421 Kompact features an XLR connector, making it compatible with most professional audio interfaces, mixers, and recording equipment.
Can the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact handle high sound pressure levels?: Yes, the Sennheiser MD421 Kompact is designed to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for capturing loud sound sources like drums and electric guitar amplifiers without distortion.

Videos

Add video

Sennheiser

Introducing MD 421 Kompakt | Sennheiser

Sennheiser

Sennheiser | MD 421 Kompakt Mics On Drums | Sound Demo

Drums Bonedo

Sennheiser MD-421 compact microphones recording Sonor AQ1 drums

digitaldrumming

Sennheiser MD-421 Kompakt vs. Vintage and Modern MD 421 Microphones

Sweetwater Soundcheck

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Handles high SPL with smooth response and good clarity
Performs well across multiple instruments, including guitar cabs and horns
Offers more low mid warmth, reminiscent of classic models
Less hyped highs, suitable for digital recording environments
Smaller, more affordable alternative to MD421II

CONS

Lacks sufficient low-end response for kick drums
Drum clamp length limits optimal mic placement on floor toms
Sometimes hard to position under cymbals

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp.

Features and functionality

0 0

The new Sennheiser 421 Kompakt has a darker sound due to a dip at 4.5-5kHz, affecting presence on vocals and electric guitars.
Source
0 0

The MD421 Kompakt lacks the bass rolloff switch, making it smaller and more affordable than the regular MD421, which can be advantageous for tight setups.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The mic's head basket is reinforced to withstand impacts, addressing issues found in older versions.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

The permanently attached drum clamp has shallow threading, posing a risk of failure with only two rotations before bottoming out when mounted.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The darker tone might reduce cymbal spill when used on toms, without losing tom presence, potentially benefiting drum setups.
Source
0 0

The MD421 is lauded for making toms sound consistently good, even if the drum quality is poor, but it requires careful gating to manage cymbal bleed.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Owners compare the tonal changes as an overcorrection from the MD421-II, reflecting a significant sound shift.
Source
0 0

The Audix D6 is favored over the MD421 for producing beefy tom sounds with less effort in mixing, especially in rock genres.
Source
0 0

The Sennheiser e604 is noted for being more compact and easier to handle than the MD421 while providing a similar sound profile on toms, though with less durability.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners of the MD421 Kompakt notice that while it performs similarly to the original on toms, it struggles to match on guitar due to placement challenges.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

The MD421 Kompakt is made in Romania and offers a cost-effective alternative to the original, making it a budget-friendly choice for drum mic setups.
Source

Critic Reviews

Sennheiser MD421 Kompact Cardioid Dynamic Microphone w/ Drum Clamp review on audiotechnology.com

audiotechnology.com

The Sennheiser MD421 Kompakt is a refreshing take on a classic, offering the iconic MD421 sound in a smaller, more affordable package. Its reduced size and weight make it ideal for drum mounts and tight spaces, and the built-in standmount is a welcomed improvement over the older clip design. While it retains the warm, clear sound beloved by many, the lack of a low-frequency roll-off switch may be a downside for some purists. High handling noise makes it less than ideal for handheld use, but it shines on instruments like guitar cabs and horns. Overall, it's a versatile, durable mic that delivers premium sound at a more accessible price point.

positive

Full Review

Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt review: one world-class dynamic mic

musictech.com

Sennheiser's MD 421 Kompakt is a modern twist on a classic, delivering all the robust performance you'd expect in a more petite package. It's not just a pretty face, with its remarkable versatility and ability to handle high sound levels with ease. The reduced size and improved mounting clip cut down on clutter, making it ideal for tight recording setups. While the absence of the original's high-pass switch might irk purists, most will find its omission a non-issue in today's recording environments. The Kompakt shines with its clear highs and solid low-end, proving it's more than capable of holding its own against its larger predecessor. For under $300, it's a standout choice for those seeking a dynamic workhorse mic that doesn’t compromise on quality.

positive

Full Review

October 2024: Sennheiser MD 421 KOMPAKT

recordingmag.com

Sennheiser's MD 421 KOMPAKT takes the beloved MD 421 microphone and modernizes it with a smaller, lighter design while retaining the classic sound signature. The fixed mic mount eliminates the notorious locking arm issue, making it ideal for toms and easier to position. While it retains much of the MD 421 II's sound, some may notice a smoother upper midrange. The mic excels on bass cabinets, percussion, and brass, with excellent off-axis rejection. However, some resonance may transfer through the rim mount, and it's not ideal for snare drums. With its user-friendly design and rich sound, it's a worthy successor.

positive

Full Review

Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt

soundonsound.com

Sennheiser's MD 421 Kompakt is a clever update to a classic. It retains the beloved sound signature of the original but comes in a more compact, user-friendly package with a much-needed clip redesign. Perfect for tight spaces, especially around busy drum kits, it sounds just as full and reliable as the original. While it lacks the bass roll-off control, for most users, this omission won't be missed. The mic shines in capturing toms and handles high SPLs with ease, making it versatile for brass, vocals, and guitar amplifiers. At a lower price than its predecessors, both new and vintage, the Kompakt offers excellent value without compromising on performance.

positive

Full Review

“A high-quality solution for capturing your drums”: Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt impressively distills the essence of its legendary predecessor into a more convenient form. Perfect for toms, snares, and even bass drums, this microphone shines with its classic sound and compact design. While minor adjustments to its clip are required for optimal stability, its performance justifies the price tag. For those seeking a high-quality, versatile mic for live and studio use, the Kompakt is a solid investment.

positive

Full Review

Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt Dynamic Microphone | FOH | Front of House Magazine

fohonline.com

The Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt microphone delivers the iconic sound of its predecessor with a modern twist. Its compact design and robust build make it ideal for crowded stages, while the tight cardioid pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection. The removal of the unnecessary speech filter is a welcome change, and the new swivel mount enhances ease of use. However, the drum clip can be tricky to attach, and the drawstring storage bag isn't the most practical. Despite these minor quirks, the MD 421 Kompakt stands as a worthy successor, maintaining the legendary performance that makes it a staple for professionals. Bravo, Sennheiser!

positive

Full Review

Review: Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt

mixdownmag.com.au

The Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt maintains the legendary sound quality of its predecessors while offering a more compact design that's perfect for tight setups and high SPL applications. Its cardioid pattern ensures excellent feedback rejection, making it ideal for rock guitars, drums, and brass. The removal of the 'M' and 'S' switch simplifies the design, leveraging modern digital processing. A redesigned clip enhances versatility, securing the mic in various recording situations. While comparisons to the original MD 421 are inevitable, the Kompakt stands out for its practicality and reliability, ensuring it remains a studio staple.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star