What is the polar pattern of the Sennheiser HSP 4?

The Sennheiser HSP 4 features a cardioid polar pattern. This directional pickup helps isolate the user's voice and reduce the pickup of background noise.

Can the microphone boom be moved to either side?

Yes, the modular design allows the microphone boom arm to be attached to either the left or right side of the neckband. This provides flexibility based on the performer's comfort or visual requirements.

What type of connector does this specific model use?

This version of the HSP 4 is equipped with a locking 3-pin SE connector. It is designed to work with specific Sennheiser wireless bodypack transmitters.

Is the Sennheiser HSP 4 adjustable for different head sizes?

Yes, the headset features intelligent adjustability. The neckband and boom arm can be tailored to find a secure and comfortable fit for different users.

How does the HSP 4 handle feedback in live settings?

Due to its cardioid pickup pattern, the HSP 4 provides excellent feedback rejection. It captures the voice while ignoring sound sources located behind or to the side of the capsule.

What components of the HSP 4 are replaceable?

The HSP 4 is fully modular, meaning you can interchange or replace the connection cables, attachment clips, boom arms, and the neckband itself. This extends the lifespan of the product.

What is the primary colour of this model?

This specific model comes in an Anthracite finish, which is a dark grey, matte colour intended to be unobtrusive on stage.

How does it compare to the Shure SM58?

While the Shure SM58 is a handheld dynamic microphone, the HSP 4 is a head-worn condenser. The HSP 4 allows for hands-free operation and generally offers higher sensitivity and detail.

Is this microphone suitable for singing or just speaking?

The HSP 4 is designed for both high-quality speech and vocal performances. Its sonic purity and high SPL handling make it suitable for singing in active stage environments.

Does the HSP 4 require phantom power?

As a condenser microphone, it requires power. When used with a wireless bodypack, the transmitter provides the necessary bias voltage; for wired use, a separate phantom power adapter may be required.

Is the boom arm flexible?

Yes, the HSP 4 features a flexible boom arm. This allows the user to position the capsule at the optimal distance and angle from the mouth for the best sound quality.

How does the HSP 4 differ from the Sennheiser MD 441-U?

The MD 441-U is a large, high-end dynamic microphone used on stands, whereas the HSP 4 is a miniature condenser headset. The MD 441-U is better suited for studio or stationary use, while the HSP 4 is built for mobility.

Gear article

Sennheiser HSP 4 Headset Microphone

The Sennheiser HSP 4 is a professional head-worn condenser microphone designed for hands-free vocal applications in live performance environments. It features a cardioid polar pattern and a modular chassis, allowing for extensive physical customisation and high feedback rejection.

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Overview and History

The Sennheiser HSP 4 is a high-grade head-worn microphone tailored for professionals who require complete freedom of movement without sacrificing sonic purity. Developed as part of Sennheiser's premium live microphone range, it addresses the needs of speakers, vocalists, and performers who would traditionally use handheld models like the Sennheiser e945 or e935, but require a hands-free alternative. The 'Anthracite' finish provides a discrete aesthetic suitable for stage and broadcast environments.

Modular Design and Adjustability

A defining feature of the HSP 4 is its modular architecture. Every component, including the connection cables, clips, boom arms, and neckbands, can be interchanged or replaced. This modularity ensures that the microphone can be adapted to specific user requirements or repaired easily if individual parts sustain damage during touring. The headset is designed for intelligent adjustability, allowing the boom arm to be worn on either the left or right side of the face depending on user preference.

Shure SM58 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone

Technical Characteristics

Unlike omnidirectional headsets, the HSP 4 utilises a cardioid polar pattern. This directional pickup is essential for high-volume environments as it focuses on the user's voice while rejecting ambient noise from the sides and rear. This makes it significantly more resistant to feedback than omnidirectional alternatives. The flexible boom arm allows for precise positioning of the capsule to achieve optimal intelligibility and tonal balance.

Target Audience and Comparison

The HSP 4 is aimed at professional performers, presenters, and active vocalists. While handheld dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 or Shure Beta 58A are industry standards for durability, they require a hand or a stand. The HSP 4 provides similar vocal clarity in a lightweight, wearable format. Compared to studio-standard microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20 or Sennheiser MD 441-U, the HSP 4 prioritises portability and proximity for live sound reinforcement.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the polar pattern of the Sennheiser HSP 4?: The Sennheiser HSP 4 features a cardioid polar pattern. This directional pickup helps isolate the user's voice and reduce the pickup of background noise.
Can the microphone boom be moved to either side?: Yes, the modular design allows the microphone boom arm to be attached to either the left or right side of the neckband. This provides flexibility based on the performer's comfort or visual requirements.
What type of connector does this specific model use?: This version of the HSP 4 is equipped with a locking 3-pin SE connector. It is designed to work with specific Sennheiser wireless bodypack transmitters.
Is the Sennheiser HSP 4 adjustable for different head sizes?: Yes, the headset features intelligent adjustability. The neckband and boom arm can be tailored to find a secure and comfortable fit for different users.
How does the HSP 4 handle feedback in live settings?: Due to its cardioid pickup pattern, the HSP 4 provides excellent feedback rejection. It captures the voice while ignoring sound sources located behind or to the side of the capsule.
What components of the HSP 4 are replaceable?: The HSP 4 is fully modular, meaning you can interchange or replace the connection cables, attachment clips, boom arms, and the neckband itself. This extends the lifespan of the product.
What is the primary colour of this model?: This specific model comes in an Anthracite finish, which is a dark grey, matte colour intended to be unobtrusive on stage.
How does it compare to the Shure SM58?: While the Shure SM58 is a handheld dynamic microphone, the HSP 4 is a head-worn condenser. The HSP 4 allows for hands-free operation and generally offers higher sensitivity and detail.
Is this microphone suitable for singing or just speaking?: The HSP 4 is designed for both high-quality speech and vocal performances. Its sonic purity and high SPL handling make it suitable for singing in active stage environments.
Does the HSP 4 require phantom power?: As a condenser microphone, it requires power. When used with a wireless bodypack, the transmitter provides the necessary bias voltage; for wired use, a separate phantom power adapter may be required.
Is the boom arm flexible?: Yes, the HSP 4 features a flexible boom arm. This allows the user to position the capsule at the optimal distance and angle from the mouth for the best sound quality.
How does the HSP 4 differ from the Sennheiser MD 441-U?: The MD 441-U is a large, high-end dynamic microphone used on stands, whereas the HSP 4 is a miniature condenser headset. The MD 441-U is better suited for studio or stationary use, while the HSP 4 is built for mobility.