Sennheiser has introduced the MKH 8018, a stereo shotgun microphone designed for film, television, and field recording environments. Engineered with location sound professionals in mind, this compact mic is tailored to handle challenging outdoor conditions while delivering detailed stereo audio with minimal coloration.
Built with a rugged aluminum housing, the MKH 8018 offers three selectable stereo modes—MS stereo, XY wide, and XY narrow—providing flexibility for a range of recording scenarios. MS stereo allows post-processing of the stereo width, while the XY configurations offer pre-mixed options optimized for on-location use. This flexibility suits both on-the-go production and studio mixing environments.
The microphone incorporates RF condenser technology to maintain clarity even in humid or extreme environments, with strong resistance to moisture and temperature variations. With a frequency response limited to 40 Hz – 20 kHz, the mic avoids interference from subsonic rumble and ultrasonic noise often generated by camera systems, making it a strong contender for modern broadcast microphone setups.
A fixed XLR-5M output and integrated -10 dB pad help prevent signal overload, while a -3 dB low-cut filter at 70 Hz gives users some control over unwanted low-end noise. These features, combined with a balanced output design, make the MKH 8018 a dependable stereo shotgun mic for outdoor filming or studio-based productions.
Weighing in at just 115 grams and measuring approximately 230 mm in length, the MKH 8018 remains lightweight on a boom pole or camera mount. It ships with essential accessories, including a foam windshield, mic clip, and transport tube, with optional items like a suspension grip and basket windscreen available for more demanding environments.
With very low self-noise levels (as low as 12 dB A-weighted) and a max SPL of over 126 dB, the mic is suitable for both subtle ambient recordings and high-intensity dialogue or effects capture. Whether used in stereo MS mode for maximum post flexibility or XY mode for quick stereo imaging, the MKH 8018 provides precise directionality and a well-balanced soundstage for field recordists and audio engineers.
The MKH 8018 will be shown at NAB in Las Vegas, offering professionals a hands-on look at this stereo broadcast microphone built to withstand variable weather and recording conditions.
