SCHOEPS MK-21 WIDE CARDIOID MICROPHONE CAPSULE SCHOEPS

The Schoeps MK21 is part of the Colette series of modular capsules designed for use with the CMC preamplifiers. Designed for close proximity capturing, the MK21 provides a wide cardioid polar pattern that provides a uniform response around the front hemisphere of the capsule. The wide cardioid pattern provides a more generous pick at the off-axis sections, although not quite as wide as an omnidirectional. The uniform frequency response results in an overall “warm” tonal quality, enhancing vocal performances and instrument capturing at close proximities.

Features:

• Wide cardioid
• Preferred uses: as a soloist microphone or main microphone
• Extremely consistent polar response leads to a very natural sound
• Combines the advantages of the omni (warm sound) and the cardioid (directivity)
• Popular as a main microphone pair e.g. at a spacing of 30 cm, angle +/- 45°

The directivity of the wide cardioid lies between the omni and the cardioid. The idea behind their development is to combine the advantages of these two patterns. The low-frequency behaviour of the MK 21 is better than that of the cardioid, and proximity effect is less pronounced. The wide cardioid polar pattern is extremely consistent across the frequency range. Laterally-arriving direct sound and reflections are picked up without added coloration. The MK 21 is a very well-liked capsule. It is preferred when a slight directional effect and a warm, natural sound image are desired. Over the years it has become an integral part of the audio engineer’s toolkit.