Sennheiser Refreshes MKE 400, Releases Lav Mics and Mobile Kits

Mobile content creation is more popular than ever, and Sennheiser has now released a batch of new products targeting the audio needs of these on-the-go creators.

Today, Sennheiser announced the second generation of their popular MKE 400 on-camera shotgun microphone along with new XS Lav mics for smartphones. In addition, Mobile Kits are being rolled out that pair a Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod and Sennheiser Smartphone Clamp along with one of their audio devices.

MKE 400 On-Camera Microphone

The new generation of MKE 400 microphone is an on-camera shotgun that features a super-cardioid polar pattern for directional audio pickup. The sound coming from the front of the camera will come through with clarity, while sounds from the sides are rejected.

The refreshed design takes notes from the MKE 200 that was released last year, with a built-in windscreen housing that surrounds the shock-mounted mic capsule. While a fuzzy windscreen is provided with the MKE 400, in practice it’s not nearly as essential for lighter breezes that are already subdued with the perforated housing design.

For added control over audio recording, the MKE 400 has a low-cut filter switch, a three-step sensitivity switch, a 3.5mm headphone output, and an 8-step audio level dial for headphone monitoring.

Powering the MKE 400 requires two AAA batteries which Sennheiser claims will last for 100 hours of operating time. Cameras with a plug-in power microphone port can take advantage of its auto-on and auto-off feature to ensure no recording is bungled by forgetting to turn the mic on and no battery is wasted by forgetting to turn it off. The microphone will turn itself on and off with the camera when plugged in. For some smartphone models, the microphone will also turn off when unplugged. There is still a power button on the microphone to manually manage if needed.

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is priced at $200 and is available to order now. It comes with a fuzzy windscreen, a TRS cable for connecting to cameras, a TRRS cable for connecting to mobile devices, and a pouch to keep everything together.

For $230, the MKE 400 Mobile Kit will add in the Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod and Sennheiser Smartphone Clamp.

XS Lav Wired Microphone

Lavalier microphones are great for isolating someone’s voice as they are placed much closer to the source, usually attached to the speaker’s clothing. Sennheiser’s new XS Lav is a 2-meter wired omnidirectional lavalier mic meant to connect with mobile devices or computers.

The XS Lav comes in two varieties, either with a 3.5mm TRRS jack for $50, or with a USB-C plug for $60. Each comes with a detachable windscreen and carrying pouch. For video conferencing, Sennheiser recommends the USB-C version as the 3.5mm jack could interfere with audio output on some devices.

For $100, The XS Lav USB-C Mobile Kit will also include the Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod and Sennheiser Smartphone Clamp.