Sennheiser MKE 440 Review
Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
- Two Shotgun Elements
- Super-Cardioid Pickup Pattern
- Captures Sound within Camera Angle
- Good Off-Axis Sound Rejection
- Stereo 1/8" Connector
- Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Max SPL: 132 dB
- Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Cover
- Internally Shock-Mounted
- Runs on 2x AAA Batteries
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 10,881 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Sennheiser MKE 440. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Sennheiser MKE 440. For example, 76% of 472 users who have commented on the Sturdiness of the Sennheiser MKE 440 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 48 Reviews
Must for outdoor shooters
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Jawwad A. on B&H Photo Video
I used this mic for extensive testing at different condtions. In the room with one person giving interview. Audio recorded in 4 different ways by taking retakes. In all recordings there was no low cut filter. 1) mic directly attach with 35mm jack to Fuji XT1 Camera. Mic (MKE-440) setting 0db & in camera mic senstivity level 3.This gives 48khz @ 16bit sound file in 'Adobe Audition' (if you load video file .MOV directly in 'Audition'). Audio average at -16db. Need +3db gain in Audition. 2) mic with ' Alzo stereo microphone XLR Adapter Cord for pro camcoders B&H# AL130' to Tascam DR 100 Mk ii audio recorder (B&H# TADR100MKII) using its two XLR inputs (L & R channel). In Tascam recorder audio is 48khz @ 24bit. Sound average at -16db. Senheiser mic senstivity +12db & Tascam pre-amps at 'Medium' satting with analog gain to full (10db). 3) on camera voice was useless. 4) Tascam stereo mic gives -24db voice. Conclusion: in terms of sound quality of the situation 1& 2 above no difference. Only difference on camera (Fuji XT1) record 16bit@48khz & Dedicated recorder (Tascam mkii) records 24bit@48khz. Background noise of AC running was same. Birds noise outside window was masked down at least 12db (as compared to cases 3 & 4) - which is good. MkE-440 Pre-Amps are very good - I say it is real +12db. Other 'senheiser ew 112 system' only gives +6db (pre-amp) and that is single channel (mono). With this mic (MKE-440) both on camera & consumer level audio recorders (with XLR inputs) can produce high quality sound (broadcast level) at 24bit@48khz with average at -12db with peaks at -3db.In the Audio recorder with XLR input make sure you turn off 'Phantom Power'. I suggest Senheiser must put some safety in the mic if someone attach accidently this to XLR (as my case-2 above) with phantom power on this mic should not burn. ... More
Microphone for run & gun videos
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Keith on B&H Photo Video
I wanted a microphone for run & gun videos using my Canon 7Dii DSLR. After some research, I selected Sennheiser MKE 440, but the pro audio guy at B&H thought Rode VideoMic Pro would be better suited for my use. There were no 3rd party comparisons of these two mics, so I bought both. The B&H rep said that I could return the one I did not prefer. I conducted a very subjective comparison test. With assistance of 3 friends, I took 12 short videos with audio sound tracks. One person in front of camera at distances of 20, 40, 70 & 100 ft. Other 2 were on right & left of camera at distances of 5, 10, 15, & 20 ft. Each person was reciting a memorized poem for 15 seconds. One set of 5 recordings was done using Sennheiser MKE 440 mic One set of 5 recordings was done using Rode mic One set of 5 recordings was done using on-board Canon camera mic The results were mixed. At some distances the MKE was better. At other distances, the Rode was better. In some cases, the 4 people had mixed results or no difference noted. Overall, the audio quality of the Rode was slightly, but not significantly, better. Both Rode & Sennheiser mics were significantly better than on-camera mic. However, I chose the Sennheiser MKE 440 to purchase, because of the following: 1) MKE is significantly smaller, although slightly heavier (180 gms) 2) MKE fits much easier into my camera bag 3) MKE Battery access & replacement is MUCH easier. I thought the plastic tabs on the Rode battery cover would break before I could return the unit 4) MKE unit feels much more stable & secure when mounted on camera 5) MKE Dead Cat windscreen is much easier to attach & remove 6) MKE microphone cord is more out of the way when plugged into camera 7) MKE battery life is listed at 100 hours vs. 70 hours for Rode 8) MKE power-on LED changes from Green to Red when battery life 4 hours 9) MKE costs $130 more, but not significant considering the amount of money already spent on Canon camera body & lenses. ... More
Funny looking but great sounding!
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Jim M. on B&H Photo Video
I have about 15 different microphones. For the last 20+ years, I've used an Audio-Technica 822 as an external mic for at least 4 different camcorders. I like it a lot! But the form factor just wasn't good for shooting video with my DSLR. Unless it was rigged forward or to the side, the cable hit me in the head while looking through the EVF. I tried a couple Polsen mics but the AT822 spoiled me for quality. The Sennheiser MKE 440 is a completely different story. Not only does it match the quality of the AT822, but it surpasses it functionally in several significant ways. First of all it sits nicely on the camera's hot shoe without extending backward, letting me use the EVF. The coil cord has nice length and flexibility, and hopefully will prove durable since it's hard wired into the mic. The green LED battery indicator is fantastic; the batteries easy to change. Resistance to handling noise is far superior to my old AT822. The low-cut filter works about the same as the AT822 - well, if you need it. As for sound, it's a little strange as you might expect from such an unusual looking form. You get something akin to a focused cone of reception with good rejection of off-axis sound outside the cone. The AT822 has more natural channel separation, but the MKE 440 is close, even while panning away from the source. The MKE 440 comes with three loudness settings where the AT822 only has the one. The low, attenuated setting is dimmer than the AT822 and I don't anticipate using it much. The middle gain setting is much louder than the AT822 and without any significant noise. Outstanding! At the highest gain setting, the 440 transmits a little hiss which disappears into any ambient sound, but not good for a quiet setting unless it's the only way to get an audible signal from a soft subject. There is no phase insynchronicity that I could hear. If you're not using that second audio channel, you should be recording stereo, and this is a great, compact mic to get you started. ... More
Excellent Stereo Choice for Focused Sound
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Frank on B&H Photo Video
Sennheiser's MKE 440 is a surprisingly small stereo shotgun that weighs only 5.8 ounces, while capturing focused stereo audio from the direction of the video shoot. The mic rejects the majority of off-axis noise from outside the camera's field of view.. What's different about this microphone is it uses two mini-shotgun elements that are suspended in metal tubes in a V-shape arrangement. This differs from mics in a single tube that perform as more conventional M/S, AB or XY stereo pickups. The design captures the audio that's directly in the field of view of a 35mm lens. The stereo spread is very uniform and intelligibility is high. The MKE440 results in a narrower sound field than the Rode stereo mics, which offered a wider pickup pattern and more reverberant audio. The Sennheiser rejected off-focus sound that the Rode did not. The Sennheiser has a stereo, super-cardioid pickup pattern and features a frequency response of 50 Hz to 20 kHz, as well as a maximum sound pressure level of 132 dB. The mic is powered by a pair of AAA batteries and offers an operating time of 100 hours. A glowing LED lets the user know when the battery gets low. The mic delivers full performance with a low battery warning. I liked the design of the battery compartment, which is easy to access and is built well. The pair of microphones inside the stainless steel micro-mesh capsules are internally shock-mounted to prevent handling noise. The outer mesh casing itself protects against wind noise, though Sennheiser sells an optional black furry wind cover, which I recommend for outdoor use. ... More
Great sound with a small flaw for some uses.
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Tyler on B&H Photo Video
The stereo/shotgun combo gives a good balance of some ambient sound with decent subject isolation. Not quite as directional as a traditional shotgun mic. In some cases, I am actually choosing to use just the left or right channel alone (isolated in post-production) if one is picking up speech from a subject better, and it can help in situations where there is more ambient sound. In comparison to something like the Rode VideoMic Pro, (or many similar products that you'd typically see atop a DSLR/Mirrorless setup) this is built with a little more heft and feels like it'll survive the rigors of production longer. Since the microphones and their isolation systems are enclosed in the mesh shield I feel as though I don't have to baby this mic as much. I can't comment in-depth on the nuances of the sound too much. As a videographer/editor I can say it's useable for professional applications as an on-camera setup. One caveat, is that it picks up more handling noise than the Rode Video Mic, or even the tiny Sennheiser MKE 400. Installed in the hot shore of my A7sII, pressing buttons, operating dials, even operating a zoom lens will be noticeable in your audio. Changing your hand position on your camera can even be noticed if you are recording at higher gain. This may not be as bad if you are using with a cage or rig. Overall, it bridges the gap pretty well between having to choose between a wide stereo pattern and a directional shotgun, and not a bad one-size-fits-all solution. ... More
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Great mic when it works
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Jeremy on B&H Photo Video
I bought this on sale to replace RDE VideoMic that I lost on assignment last summer. The sound settings are one thing to learn, it has low, medium, and high, and it seems to work best with my GH4 or 1DX when set on medium for the kind of run and gun news videos I capture while also shooting stills. I think it sounds better than the Rode and does better isolating sound of people talking in front of me, which had a more tinny kind of sound, but captured stereo very well. However, lately, I have noticed static in one of the channels. So, I tested it on two cameras, and it was the mic. I figured out that sometimes the batteries have to be taken out, and then reinserted, and then it works as it should, but when it fails I come back with video where one channel is bad. I can tell when it's acting up because one channel will have sound no matter what, but I have to say, I never had this kind of problem with the Rode, which actually took a spill one day when a sledder wiped me out from behind ... and even though the mic mount broke, the Rode worked flawlessly, I haven't tested the 4400 that way, and hope not to so so. I got another mount from Rode. Anyway, I'm going to be contracting Sennheisser about this issue with the MKE 440. ... More
It's solid.
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Kevin on B&H Photo Video
Obviously this hasn't been out long, so still gathering opinions, but it's pro quality for nat sound, scratch track, or backup audio. Its housing is metal and has quality feel. I wish they included a drawstring bag or something with it though. Great options on it, and a step above Rode being stereo and still directional like a shotgun.
New microphone same old problem
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Robert on B&H Photo Video
As a TV News Photographer dating back to the late 1980's, we all used Senn. ME80 Microphones. But they had a major flaw, they would randomly make a scratching noise that would destroy your audio recording. This was caused by the front capsule not making proper contact with the aluminum tube. GUESS WHAT - This microphone does the EXACT same thing. Because it is a stereo mic, in my case it was the right condenser that failed. I am profoundly disappointed, the sound quality is great. But the fact I lost an entire shoot makes the MKE440 completely useless. I ran it into my computer and made a 2 hour recording - sure enough I can see in the waveform the loud scratching signature. I tried several high end types of batteries (I typically use Procell by Duracell). Come on Sennheiser! How is this problem not fixed after all these years? Stay as far away from Sennheiser microphones as you can... ... More
Good Lightweight Stereo Mic
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Aaron on B&H Photo Video
I bought this to use on one of my B cams, in this case a SONY PXW X70. I wanted something compact with a good stereo image and decent rejection to the rear. For me, the MKE 440 fits the bill. I shoot mainly outdoors, my subject being trains and locomotives, ambient sounds, and interviews. First of all, the mic has a very natural, clear sound. I put it on par with my more expensive Audio Technica shotgun and definitely better than the camera's on board mic. Of course, that should go without saying. The rear end rejection is decent for a mic this size and camera handling noise is minimal. Of course if you touch the camera's XLR mic handle you are going to hear it. However, for tripod or normal hand held use of the camera the mic will deliver the audio that you are wanting to shoot. For wind noise reduction I purchased the Windbuster Kit from B&H. It is made specifically for this mic and had a good snug fit. As advertised, it does do a decent job of minimizing wind noise. I was shooting in 15mph winds with the low cut filter enabled. It does not perform as well as my AT shotgun with a RYCOTE dead cat, but it isn't bad either considering it is half the price. Just keep in mind that with the Windbuster on, you will not be able to see the power/lowcut/sensitivity buttons. For me it is easy to forget to turn the mic off, but the saving grace is the long life with the two AA batteries. In short, this mic does the job I want it to without making the small X70 top heavy. Hopefully it will last for years to come. ... More
Stereo works great for limited situations
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Leigh on B&H Photo Video
Pros: 1) Delivers a clean stereo separation at various distances. 2) Easy to mount on the hot-shoe and the coiled input cord stays neatly out of the way. 3) When powered on, the green light is a nice reminder and the low battery red light too. 4) the various settings of high sensitivity to low function as they should. The low cutoff seems limited but is affective for some troublesome background sounds. Cons: The three function switches are some small that I have difficulty changing them on the fly, and they are even more difficult to see & change when a dead-cat wind blocker is on. Conclusion is that I think this new split-directional mic might be best for interviews where you have a panel of people in a line, with the mic reasonably close and centred. It might also be cool for the stereo affect at say a car race, or some activity that you could benefit from the audio picking up from one channel to the other as it passes by, but I have yet to apply it that way. Oh, and the supplied dead-cat actually works better in gusty wind than the long-haired custom one from another seller. ... More
Very High Quality Build (just wish for better/bigger knobs)
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by William on B&H Photo Video
Happy with purchase. Would recommend this product. I've already used it atop a Sony A6300 to record Disney street musicians over 5 nights. High quality all metal build. Cord out the front doesn't clutter up or get in the way of the LCD or EVF screen area. Sound is dramatically improved over on board mics. Only disappointment is in this price range I was expecting better knob positioning and/or larger settings knobs. The knobs are durable but very tiny and with the Windshield cover on the little knobs are covered and you're feeling your way the dark to try to figure out if the mic is on or off and what level the settings are at. With just a little better quality knobs I'd give this product 5 stars. ... More
Delivers all that can be expected!
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by LJC on B&H Photo Video
Had an urgent need for a superior recording of a one time lecture. B&H delivered very quickly as always. Placed the Sennheiser MKE 440 about two feet in front of the lectern pointing slightly up at the speaker. It suppressed virtually all background and room noise and delivered very high quality voice recording. Virtually no post required, sounded natural and recorded at a good volume level. With the boost setting I can reduce the dependence on the recording device pre-amp, which is sometimes not the best, whether camera or digital voice recorder. I am very satisfied with this product and am impressed with the engineering. It will clearly have a long potential life. The cord is integral to the unit. It is the most likely failure point, so it would be great to have an easy replacement option. But this is a minor consideration given the solid overall construction. I plan to be careful with the cord. I also purchased the dead cat wind noise suppressor for outdoor use. It is of equal high quality. ... More
Doesn't replace discreet placement, but good as intended
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Rain or Shine on B&H Photo Video
I won't use this as my only source, but buying it as a deal of the day I am very pleased with the price/performance ratio it offered. It certainly doesn't come close to a boom or lav for interview situations, but does as well or better than most camera mounted solutions I have tried. I bought it primarily for extreme run and gun nat sound , to improve my backup/reference tracks, and to get somewhat usable interview sound for on the street interviews in chaotic situations. Will I always prefer a hyper or shotgun on a boom: yes. Does this cut it for situations where that is not possible? Well, more often than other solutions I have tried. I am considering setting it up on a better shock mount and am looking for an extreme wind solution that exceeds the factory dead cat. Mounted directly on the hot shoe of the camera or rig, it does pick up mechanical noise from my hands on the grips. Surely a function of the compact form factor. I am hoping to find something that helps but doesn't increase the form factor too much... ... More
Pricey but well worth it.
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Theodore R. on B&H Photo Video
Yes. This mic is pricey. Yes: It is slightly bulky. BUT: It is FAR superior to the Rode shotgun-style mic. The Rode, incidentally, is very good. But this one is excellent. If you are serious about clean and clear dialog without the hassle of wireless mics or using a dedicated boom operator, I highly recommend it.
A well made microphone
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
This Sennheiser MKE 440 microphone is a well made unit. Its light enough for DSLR work and is strong enought to take a beating as with all Senheiser units. I was attracted to the dual shotgun design with stereo output. In use it hasn't disappointed and the furry cat did the job when I used it on a recent golf course shoot.I couldn't wait for B&H to get the first shipment and recieved mine very promply from B&H. It has a metal shoe mount and attaches firmly and with confidence ! It also has a nice low profile.
Good Performer With Fatal Flaw
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Vaughn on B&H Photo Video
This microphone works very well and appears to be built very sturdily built. Unfortunately the coil cable is attached directly to the body of the mic instead of haviing a plug-in, and there's not much strain relief inside of the case. It doesn't take a lot of force to pull the cable connection loose inside the housing, and Sennheiser wants $200 to repair it. I'll put that $200 towards an Azden SMX-30 this time around.
Right Channel Static
Sennheiser MKE 440 Stereo Shotgun Microphone Kit with Fur Windshield
Reviewed by Robert on B&H Photo Video
Was nice for first 15 months of light use. Right channel now has intermittent static.
Professional audio from a lightweight directonal stereo mic!
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Roger on B&H Photo Video
Another Sennheiser milestone product in my collection of mics. I'm using it with the SONY FDR-AX100 4K camcorder. The camcorder has an ok built-in stereo mic system, but the MKE 440 truly adds professional stereo interview capabilities. Together with the Universal Shoe Mount adaptor (required for the SONY camcorder), this combination camcorder/stereo mic delivers beautifully. Best of all: The two batteries required for the mic seem to last forever (well, almost)...
Nice, So Far
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Larry on B&H Photo Video
This mic is great for my needs, so far as I've been able to evaluate it. It definitely takes the echo out of a room and cuts side noise by a LOT, making the sounds in a drywall-ed room (with carpet) not a whole lot different at 12 feet than at 5 feet (contrary to built in, or other cardiod, mics. But note that I've only had this for a week or so, and haven't had a chance for the definitive test: I bought it primarily to improve the sound of my grandchildren's concerts and plays, usually in a school gym, and it'll probably be December before they perform again. And that's why I give it a (tentative) four stars. ... More
The perfect mic for a Sony Z90V camera for example
Sennheiser MKE 440 Compact Stereo Shotgun Microphone
Reviewed by Philip W. on B&H Photo Video
I love this mic. I just used it on a shoot where my subjects were 3 to 9 feet away and it was terrific. Nice stereo feel too. Roll off the base and there is almost NO handling noise. Great for a small hand held camera. I've shot for a few decades and Sennheiser never ceases to really amaze me. Worth the price!
