Descripción
The Sennheiser MD 421 KOMPAKT with MZH Drum Clamp (also written MD 421 Kompakt, MD421 KOMPAKT, or MD 421 KOMPAKT + MZH DRUMS) is a multipurpose dynamic cardioid microphone built on the legendary MD 421 sound, in a compact body with a redesigned mounting clip. Sennheiser says it delivers the same performance as the original MD 421 and MD 421-II. The included MZH Drum Clamp screws into the mounting clip to create a fail-safe mount for drums, guitar cabs, and any other close-miking job.
If you've heard recorded or live music over the last five decades, you've likely heard an MD 421. The KOMPAKT carries that sound forward in a smaller, lighter body that sits easily between drums, on a cab, or on a boom stand. A dynamic capsule, an internal bass tube, and a rugged German-built frame make it a dependable choice for loud stages and busy studio sessions, and it needs no power- only an XLR cable.
Key Features
- Dynamic, cardioid pickup pattern (pressure gradient transducer)
- Frequency response: 30 Hz to 17 kHz
- Handles very high sound pressure levels in demanding environments
- Internal bass tube for accurate, extended low-end response
- Compact, multipurpose size: 4.8 × 1.9 × 3.3 in (122 × 49 × 84 mm), 5.6 oz (159 g)
- Redesigned mounting clip, securely attached to the microphone
- MZH Drum Clamp included: screws into the clip for a fail-safe drum mount
- Rugged German engineering for touring and heavy studio use
- Rugged frame, stainless-steel basket, and gold-plated XLR connectors
- Inner chassis enclosure helps keep dust and humidity out
- Feedback rejection from the cardioid pattern
- Balanced 3-pin XLR output
Who Is the MD 421 KOMPAKT Ideal For?
- Drummers and engineers miking toms and snare
- Guitar and bass cabinet recording
- Live sound and touring engineers
- Studios, vocals, and instrument recording
What's in the Box
- Sennheiser MD 421 KOMPAKT microphone
- MZH DRUMS drum clamp
- Pouch
- Quick Guide
- Safety Guide
MD 421 KOMPAKT vs Other Sennheiser Dynamic Microphones
We carry several Sennheiser dynamic microphones. Here is how the MD 421 KOMPAKT with drum clamp compares. In short: choose this bundle if you want the MD 421 sound with a drum clamp included, the standard KOMPAKT if you'll mount it on a stand only, and the e 904 or e 604 if you need a dedicated drum microphone.
| Model | Type | Standout Feature | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MD 421 KOMPAKT + MZH Drum Clamp (this item) | Dynamic, cardioid | MD 421 sound, compact body, drum clamp included | $275.00 | Drums, guitar cabs, live and studio |
| MD 421 KOMPAKT | Dynamic, cardioid | Same microphone, stand mount only | $299.00 | Stand-mounted studio and live use |
| Sennheiser e 904 | Dynamic, cardioid drum microphone | Made for drum miking | $219.00 | Toms and snare |
| Sennheiser e 604 (3-pack) | Compact dynamic, cardioid | Three mics in one set | $429.00 | Multi-mic drum kits |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the MD 421 KOMPAKT with MZH Drum Clamp?
The microphone, the MZH DRUMS clamp, a pouch, a Quick Guide, and a Safety Guide.
Does the MD 421 KOMPAKT need phantom power?
No. It is a dynamic microphone and needs no power source. Plug it into a mic preamp or mixer with an XLR cable.
What is the polar pattern?
Cardioid. It picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the sides and rear.
What is the drum clamp for?
The MZH Drum Clamp screws into the MD 421 KOMPAKT mounting clip to create a fail-safe mount for drum miking, so the microphone stays in place on a rim or stand.
How is it different from the MD 421-II?
Sennheiser says the KOMPAKT delivers the same performance as the MD 421 and MD 421-II in a more compact body with a redesigned mounting clip. The KOMPAKT has no bass roll-off switch, whereas our MD 421-II listing includes a 5-position bass roll-off.
How big and heavy is it?
4.8 × 1.9 × 3.3 in (122 × 49 × 84 mm) and 5.6 oz (159 g).
What connector does it use?
A 3-pin XLR connector.
What is the warranty?
Sennheiser lists a 2-year warranty for the MD 421 KOMPAKT.
What temperatures can it operate in?
Sennheiser specifies an operating temperature of 5°F to 131°F (-15°C to +55°C) and 5% to 95% relative humidity.
Full Technical Specifications
Microphone
| Transducer principle | Pressure gradient transducer, dynamic |
|---|---|
| Pickup pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 30 Hz to 17,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity (free field, at 1 kHz) | 2 mV/Pa ±2.5 dB |
| Electrical impedance | 250 Ω |
| Minimum terminating impedance | 1 kΩ |
| Connector | XLR-3 |
| Power | None required (no battery) |
| Operating temperature | 5°F to 131°F (-15°C to +55°C) |
| Operating relative humidity | 5% to 95% |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Dimensions & Weight
| Dimensions | 4.8 × 1.9 × 3.3 in (122 × 49 × 84 mm) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.6 oz (159 g) |
Financing Options
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Military & First Responder Discounts
We're proud to support those who serve. Active-duty military, veterans, and first responders qualify for a special discount on your gear. See our Military Discount details here and how to redeem.