Sennheiser MKH 8018 Overview

Precision Stereo Capture for Film, TV, and Broadcast

The Sennheiser MKH 8018 is a high-performance stereo shotgun microphone, designed for professionals who require exceptional directionality, pristine sound quality, and versatile stereo recording options. With its innovative push-pull transducer design and low-tension diaphragm, the MKH 8018 delivers an extended frequency response, outstanding sensitivity, and natural, spatially accurate stereo imaging. Whether you’re capturing film dialog, immersive soundscapes, sporting events, or wildlife recordings, this microphone delivers outstanding audio fidelity with remarkable flexibility.

Advanced Stereo Recording with Three Switchable Modes

Unlike traditional stereo shotgun microphones, the MKH 8018 features three selectable stereo recording patterns, allowing sound engineers to adapt to different environments and production needs:

• MS (Mid-Side) Mode—captures separate mid and side signals, providing maximum control over stereo width. This mode is ideal for postproduction mixing, where stereo width can be adjusted dynamically to suit the scene. When used in real-time with an MS matrix, it offers a flexible stereo image without sacrificing mono compatibility.
• XY-Narrow (LR-N) Mode—provides a tight stereo image with enhanced off-axis rejection, making it suitable for dialogue recording in controlled environments or capturing specific sound sources with precision.
• XY-Wide (LR-W) Mode—expands the stereo image, increasing ambient pickup for more immersive environmental recordings, making it ideal for outdoor ambiance, live performances, and sports broadcasts where a wider, more natural soundstage is desired.

Superior Acoustic Performance

• Stereo shotgun capsule configuration delivers a highly directional pickup pattern with an immersive sense of spatial realism.
• 40 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response captures the full depth and detail of sound, from deep lows to shimmering highs.
• Low nonlinear distortion ensures transparent audio reproduction, free from unwanted artifacts.
• Low self-noise design retains delicate details, making it an excellent choice for capturing subtle, quiet sounds.
• Optimized polar pattern minimizes off-axis coloration, providing a more coherent stereo image, particularly for larger sound sources.
• Extended bass response enables full-spectrum sound capture and greater flexibility in microphone positioning.

Professional-Grade Features for Film & Broadcast

• Switchable low-cut filter (-3 dB at 70 Hz) reduces low-frequency rumble, wind noise, and handling vibrations.
• High-quality -10 dB pad prevents overloading from high SPL sources, ensuring clean audio, even in loud environments.
• Moisture-resistant RF condenser technology provides reliable performance in humid, hot, or cold conditions, making it ideal for outdoor production, sports broadcasting, and nature recording.
• Fully floating, balanced output eliminates grounding issues and maintains signal integrity with minimal distortion.
• Compact, lightweight design makes it suitable for boom poles, camera mounting, and mobile recording setups.
• Nextel non-reflective finish prevents glare from stage lights or camera flashes, making it visually unobtrusive on set.
• Requires 48V phantom power.