Sennheiser MD421-II

A five-decade broadcast standard that defined the sound of radio news

Best for: Podcasters and journalists who want reference-class broadcast sound with decades of real-world validation

The MD421-II is a cardioid dynamic microphone with a large diaphragm, a frequency response of 30 Hz to 17 kHz, and a five-position bass roll-off switch that allows precise proximity effect compensation. It has been used in radio and television broadcast worldwide since the 1960s. No phantom power required. The included clip provides three-point mounting for secure stand attachment.

Key features

Cardioid dynamic XLR, no phantom power required
Frequency response 30 Hz to 17 kHz
Five-position bass roll-off switch for proximity control
Suitable for high-SPL sources including percussion and brass
Three-point clip for secure boom arm or stand mounting
Proven in broadcast and studio environments since the 1960s

Our take

The MD421-II is not trendy, but it has been in more professional broadcast environments than any other dynamic microphone alive. The five-position bass roll-off is not a gimmick - each position meaningfully changes the low-frequency character, giving you a degree of fine-tuning no other mic in this class offers. It handles high SPL easily and works cleanly in a wide variety of acoustic environments. The price reflects professional-tier build and Sennheiser's no-compromise approach to broadcast engineering.