The Sennheiser MKH 8018 is a premium shotgun microphone designed for professionals who require precise and immersive audio capture. Featuring stereo recording capabilities, a push-pull transducer design, and three switchable stereo modes, the MKH 8018 is ideal for film production, broadcast, nature recording, and live events.
Exceptional Audio Fidelity and Directionality
The MKH 8018 delivers crystal-clear sound reproduction with low distortion and an extended frequency response (40 Hz – 20 kHz). Its high sensitivity ensures a natural and detailed audio capture, making it perfect for environments where directional accuracy and spatial realism are essential.
Key Features:
✔ Three switchable stereo modes:
- MS (Mid-Side): Independent mid and side signals allow post-production adjustments for a customizable stereo image.
- XY-Narrow (LR-N): Focused stereo pickup for directional precision with minimal ambiance.
- XY-Wide (LR-W): Captures a broader stereo field with increased ambient pickup.
✔ Advanced Transducer Design: The push-pull capsule with a low-tension diaphragm enhances sensitivity and low-noise performance, ensuring detailed recordings with a natural feel.
✔ Superior Off-Axis Rejection: The optimal polar pattern minimizes unwanted noise and ensures a coherent sound image, even in challenging acoustic environments.
✔ Moisture-Resistant Build: Engineered for extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor field recordings and broadcast applications.
✔ Low-Cut Filter & Attenuation Pad: The switchable -3 dB low-cut filter reduces wind and handling noise, while the -10 dB pad protects against distortion in high-SPL environments.
✔ Compact and Discreet: With its slim 22mm diameter and Nextel® non-reflecting coating, the MKH 8018 remains visually unobtrusive in film sets, live broadcasts, and stage performances.
Technical Specifications
- Polar Pattern: Stereo shotgun
- Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: -25 dB (M-Channel), -26 dB (XY-Narrow), -30 dB (XY-Wide)
- Self-Noise: 12 dB(A) (M-Channel), 14.5 dB(A) (S-Channel)
- Max SPL: >126 dB
- Connector: XLR-5M
- Weight: 115 g
- Power Supply: P48 Phantom Power
- Operating Temperature: -10°C to 60°C
Perfect for Film, Broadcast, and Field Recording
The MKH 8018 is part of Sennheiser’s MKH 8000 series, a premium lineup designed for professional film production, live sports broadcasting, nature recordings, and high-end location sound capture. Whether you're capturing cinematic soundscapes, wildlife environments, or on-location interviews, this microphone provides unmatched stereo depth and precision.
Included Accessories:
- MZQ 100 Microphone Clip
- MZW 8018 Windshield
- MZR 8000 Camera Adapter
- Threaded Transport Tube
- Quick Guide & Safety Instructions
For those looking to expand their setup, additional accessories such as shock mounts, windscreens, and extension cables are available.
Conclusion
The Sennheiser MKH 8018 is a top-tier stereo shotgun microphone that brings studio-quality sound to field recording environments. With its versatile stereo configurations, high sensitivity, and robust build, it’s the ideal choice for professionals demanding superior audio fidelity in dynamic recording situations.