Sennheiser MKH 415 & MKH 416 Differences??

[sonicsoundnz]

I have been searching for the difference between the MKH 415 and the production standard MKH 416 and am clueless. Anyone?[/quote]

[Glen Trew]

The 415 came out before the 416. The 415 was only available for T power (different than phantom power). The 416 was available in either T power (416-T) or 48V phantom (416-PH). Also, I believe the 415 was available in nickel finish only, while the 416 could be ordered in either black or nickel finish. Lastly, had updated circuitry with slightly improved noise specs.

Other than these things, the 415 and 416 are the same. They can be used with the same mounts and screens. They can be used for the same situations and can be used interchangeably.

Glen Trew

[PennTraxx]

There are some subtle differences between the 415 and 416. The updated circuitry of the 416 has tended to remove some of the warmth that the 415 has. Recording to DAT or other 16 bit medium , this difference won't be noticed , but on analog or 24 bit the difference is quite noticeable. The 415 has a "reed" quality to it when you get the voice in the sweet spot.
I use 415's as my workhorse and have since the late 70's

Rick Penn C.A.S.

[sonicsoundnz]

Thanks for the info. I have only seen the 415 in nickel finish. What do you mean "reed" quality? 415s are quite a bit cheaper than a 416 and I am anxious to pick up a 415.

Thanks.

[PennTraxx]

The "reed " quality I mentioned is similar, to my ear, to the resonance of a well -played woodwind instrument. The warmth of sound that a reeded instrument produces is what I hear in a 415. I think the only way to understand what I'm talking about is A, B ing the 415 and 416. That way you can make up your own mind.

Rick Penn C.A.S.