Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
$1,499.00
Amazon
$1,399.00
Amazon Prime
Reverb
$1,499.00 New
$1,099.99 Used
B&H
5.0 (7)
$1,499.00
Thomann
4.9 (7)
$1,359.00 $1,333.00 $26.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,388

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sennheiser MKH 8050". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 is a compact supercardioid condenser microphone that delivers pristine audio quality suited for both studio recording and live sound reinforcement. Its modular design allows for flexibility, combining the MKHC 8050 supercardioid capsule with the MZX 8000 XLR module output stage. Designed for professionals, this microphone captures vocals and instruments with exceptional clarity, thanks to its symmetrical transducer with dual back-plates that produce extremely low distortion. The supercardioid polar pattern effectively minimizes feedback and isolates your sound source from background noise, making it ideal for capturing solo performances or intricate instrumental details.

The MKH 8050 boasts a wide frequency response of 30 Hz to 50 kHz, ensuring every nuance of your performance is captured with transparency and detail. Its compact size and low-profile design make it a discreet yet powerful tool in any recording setup. Whether you're in a controlled studio environment or a bustling live venue, the MKH 8050's ability to handle high sound pressure levels up to 142 dB SPL ensures that your audio remains clear and distortion-free.

Key Features:

  • Supercardioid polar pattern for effective noise rejection
  • Modular design with MKHC 8050 capsule and MZX 8000 XLR module
  • Symmetrical transducer with dual back-plates for low distortion
  • Wide frequency response: 30 Hz to 50 kHz
  • Handles sound pressure levels up to 142 dB SPL
  • Extremely low noise for pristine audio capture
  • Includes MZQ 8000 microphone holder, MZW 8000 windshield, and plastic case

Owner's manual

Sennheiser MKH 8050 User Manual

Product specs

Available since July 2008
Battery Powered No
Directional Microphone No
Stereo Pair No
switchable lowcut No
switchable pad No
characteristic super-cardioid

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the Sennheiser MKH 8050?

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 features a super-cardioid polar pattern, which offers focused sound pickup with higher attenuation of off-axis noise, making it ideal for recording soloists and situations requiring lateral acoustic separation.

Is the Sennheiser MKH 8050 suitable for outdoor field recording?

Yes, the Sennheiser MKH 8050 is suitable for outdoor field recording due to its compact size and robust build, although it may require additional wind protection for optimal performance in windy conditions.

What is the frequency response range of the Sennheiser MKH 8050?

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 has a frequency response range of 30Hz to 50kHz, providing a broad and detailed sound capture suitable for high-fidelity recordings.

Does the Sennheiser MKH 8050 require phantom power?

Yes, the Sennheiser MKH 8050 requires phantom power to operate, as it is a condenser microphone designed for professional audio environments.

How does the Sennheiser MKH 8050 perform in terms of handling noise?

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 is designed to minimize handling noise, but using a shock mount can further reduce any vibrations or handling sounds during recording.

Curtis Judd

Curtis Judd

3 Professional Indoor Boom Microphones: Sennheiser, Schoeps, Audio Technica

Video thumbnail for 3 Professional Indoor Boom Microphones: Sennheiser, Schoeps, Audio Technica by Curtis Judd

3 Professional Indoor Boom Microphones: Sennheiser, Schoeps, Audio Technica

Curtis Judd

Curtis Judd

Video thumbnail for Sennheiser MKH 8050 im Test und Vergleich zum Oktava MK012, Rode NTG5 by Alexan Der

Sennheiser MKH 8050 im Test und Vergleich zum Oktava MK012, Rode NTG5

Alexan Der

Alexan Der

Video thumbnail for Sennheiser MKH 416 VS Sennheiser MKH 8050 by Nolhann Conan

Sennheiser MKH 416 VS Sennheiser MKH 8050

Nolhann Conan

Nolhann Conan

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally low noise floor for a condenser microphone

  • Smooth on and off-axis frequency response

  • Compact size ideal for travel and tight spaces

  • Extremely natural and transparent sound capture

  • Resistant to humidity due to RF technology

  • Versatile for various instruments and dialogue

  • Wide pattern suitable for diverse recording environments

  • Highly effective for live sound and recording

  • Excellent off-axis sound reduction with natural tonal balance

CONS

  • Susceptible to handling noise without a proper shock mount

  • Requires additional low cut filter for optimal performance in dialogue work

  • Accessory quality could be improved

  • Expensive investment, particularly with optional filter module

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sennheiser MKH 8050.

User experience

  • Owners report handling noise concerns with the MKH 8050, recommending the MZF-8000 adaptor to mitigate this issue, especially during heavy movement.

    Source
  • In smaller spaces with low ceilings, the MKH 8050 may be preferable for interviews, offering a less "bitey" sound in the upper mids compared to the MKH 50.

    Source
  • One user, after months of use, found the MKH 8050 preferable for indoor booming despite handling noise concerns, opting for a filter module to assist further.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MKH 8050 is often compared to the Schoeps 641 for interior dialogue, with the latter offering a post-processed sound quality but at a higher price.

    Source
  • The MKH 8050 offers a more natural sound with broader frequency range than the MKH 50, which has superior room sound rejection.

    Source
  • The MKH 8050 is praised for its full bottom sound, though its reach is noted to be less than the MKH 50.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MKH 8050 excels as a primary interior mic for short documentaries and is praised for its resilience in high humidity environments.

    Source
  • The MKH 8050's small size makes it ideal for stage use during video shoots, particularly for musical performances.

    Source
  • The MKH 8050 is effectively used as a "plant mic," with setups involving a tabletop tripod and mic clip or Rycote, positioned discreetly behind props.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A Cinela suspension is recommended over Rycote for the MKH 8050 to significantly reduce handling noise issues.

    Source
  • Owners recommend using the Minix-Shockmount by Cinela to mitigate handling noise, enhancing performance for less experienced boom operators.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MKH 8050 is compact enough to be used effectively as a plant mic, providing versatility in various recording setups.

    Source
  • The MKH 8050 is sensitive to wind and handling noise, making it less ideal for hand booming compared to the MKH 50.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's noted that investing in a high-quality mic like the MKH 8050 offers long-term value, potentially lasting an entire career.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adding an 80Hz cut on the mixer is suggested to address handling noise without experiencing significant issues.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sennheiser MKH 8050 / MKH 50 – supercardioid indoor microphone | Microphone Geeks

microphonegeeks.com

Sennheiser's MKH 8050 delivers a rich, warm sound that excels in indoor settings, making it ideal for dialogue and musical applications. With low self-noise and impressive tonal accuracy, it performs beautifully even at a distance. However, it is sensitive to vibrations and handling noise, necessitating a quality shock mount to mitigate these issues. While it may not compete with shotguns for outdoor use, its natural sound and off-axis performance stand out. Although some may find its price steep, the MKH 8050 remains a top choice for those seeking superb audio quality, just be prepared to manage its quirks.

positive

A great, compact, super cardio microphone.

truetoad.com

The Sennheiser MKH 8050 shines with its superb sound quality and versatile design, perfect for capturing vocals and instruments in various settings. Its supercardioid pattern effectively isolates sound while delivering a warm, natural tone that's ideal for studio use. However, it doesn't completely eliminate off-axis noise like some shotgun mics, which may limit its effectiveness in certain scenarios. The price point is on the higher side, making it a serious investment for serious professionals. Overall, the MKH 8050 is a reliable choice but may not be for everyone due to its cost and some performance limitations.

positive

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