Sennheiser has launched a special edition MD 421 Kompakt microphone in honour of the company’s 80th anniversary.
The new mic retains the best qualities of the original MD 421 and MD 421-II models but in a slimmed-down streamlined form factor, now in a classy new colour to boot.
The original MD 421 made its debut back in 1960 and has garnered nothing but praise (not to mention accolades and recognitions) from musicians, broadcasters and audio professionals throughout the decades.
The next-gen MD 421-II was introduced in 2002 and the Kompakt version in 2024. At roughly half the length of the others, the Kompakt is designed for use in tight locations, including on a drum kit or placed in front of a guitar amplifier.
Despite its small size, it still manages to match its predecessors’ legendary level of performance both on the road and in the studio.
Equipped with a cardioid pickup pattern and a wide frequency range, the mic isolates a chosen sound source while effectively minimizing unwanted background noise and feedback. A bass tube positioned inside the mic reproduces sound with an extended low-end response, delivering balanced tone with full-spectrum clarity.
View Sennheiser MD 421 Kompakt Pricing and Availability at Vistek
In a nod to the original MD 421, this limited-edition version comes in a handsomely stylish retro shade that Sennheiser calls “vintage grey.” And the MD 421 Kompakt comes with a completely reengineered mounting clip that’s securely attached to the microphone itself.
In addition, Sennheiser has also made available an optional MZH drum clamp that you can screw into the mounting clip and attach directly to the edge of a drum to create a failsafe setup for drum miking. These guys don’t miss a beat.
Features
- Legendary MD 421 performance
- Compact multipurpose size
- Dependable German engineering
- Clear sound reproduction with remarkable fidelity
- Wide frequency response range of 30 Hz–17 kHz
- Effective feedback rejection
- Rugged frame with stainless-steel basket
- Gold-plated XLR connectors
- Internal bass tube
- Protective inner chassis enclosure
- Redesigned mounting clip and optional MZH drum clamp