What is the primary benefit of the omnidirectional pattern on the MKE 2?

The omnidirectional pattern ensures that the microphone captures sound equally from all directions. This means the audio levels remain consistent even when the user moves their head or if the microphone shifts slightly during a performance.

How does the MKE 2 handle moisture during long performances?

The microphone features a unique 'umbrella diaphragm' design. This construction acts as a barrier, protecting the internal condenser capsule from sweat and humidity, which prevents common reliability issues in live theatre.

What type of connector does this specific model use?

This specific version of the MKE 2 is fitted with a 3-pin connector. It is designed to interface with professional wireless bodypack transmitters or audio equipment that accepts this standard.

Is the beige colour purely for aesthetics?

The beige finish is a functional choice intended for camouflage. It allows the microphone and cable to be more easily hidden against skin tones or light-coloured costumes, making it ideal for theatre and television.

Can the MKE 2 be used for studio singing recordings?

While it has a high-quality condenser capsule, it is primarily designed for speech and movement. For dedicated studio vocal recording, a large-diaphragm microphone like the Neumann TLM 102 would generally be preferred for its different tonal characteristics.

What makes the MKE 2 cable 'robust'?

The cable is specifically engineered for professional use, featuring reinforced materials to withstand the pulling, bending, and sweat exposure that occurs in daily broadcast and theatrical environments.

How does the MKE 2 compare to a headset microphone like the Shure SM35?

The MKE 2 is much more discreet as it clips onto clothing or is hidden in hair, whereas the SM35 uses a visible head-worn frame. However, a headset like the SM35 or Audix HT2 may provide better isolation in extremely loud environments.

Is the MKE 2 suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, its durable construction and moisture-resistant diaphragm make it well-suited for outdoor broadcasts. However, a windscreen is usually recommended for high-wind conditions.

What is the typical price range for the Sennheiser MKE 2?

The typical price for this professional lavalier microphone is approximately GBP 327. This reflects its status as a high-end, professional-grade audio tool.

Does this microphone require phantom power?

As a condenser microphone, it requires a power source. When used with a wireless bodypack, the transmitter provides the necessary bias voltage; if used wired, a phantom power adapter is required.

How small is the MKE 2 capsule?

The MKE 2 is a subminiature microphone, designed to be one of the smallest professional lavaliers available. This allows it to be hidden in buttonholes, hair, or behind costumes without being noticed by an audience.

Is the MKE 2 better than the SoundMAGIC E11D for professional audio?

These products serve completely different purposes. The SoundMAGIC E11D is a consumer-grade in-ear headphone for listening, while the MKE 2 is a professional-grade capture tool for broadcast and theatre.

Gear article

Sennheiser MKE 2 Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone

The Sennheiser MKE 2 is a professional-grade subminiature omnidirectional condenser lavalier microphone designed for high-end speech and vocal capture. It is widely utilised in theatre, broadcasting, and live presentation environments due to its discreet profile and moisture-resistant design.

See live prices

Overview and Design

The Sennheiser MKE 2 is a staple in professional audio production, engineered to meet the rigorous demands of the stage and studio. Its primary design objective is to provide high-quality sound reproduction while remaining virtually invisible to the audience. This specific variant features a beige finish, which is frequently selected for its ability to blend against skin tones in theatrical and broadcast applications. The unit is equipped with a 3-pin connector, ensuring compatibility with standard professional wireless transmitters and audio interfaces.

Technical Features and Construction

A defining technical characteristic of the MKE 2 is its omnidirectional pickup pattern. This allows for consistent audio capture regardless of the speaker's head movement, making it a reliable choice for active performers.

To address the durability concerns of live performance, Sennheiser has integrated a specialised 'umbrella diaphragm'. This design choice protects the sensitive internal capsule from moisture, humidity, and sweat, which are common causes of microphone failure during long theatrical runs or outdoor broadcasts. The microphone is further supported by a robust cable designed to withstand the stresses of everyday professional use.

Sound Character

The MKE 2 is valued for delivering a clear and natural speech response. Unlike many smaller lavalier microphones that can sound thin or harsh, the MKE 2 maintains a full-range fidelity that rivals larger studio microphones. Its linear frequency response ensures that the nuances of a speaker's voice are preserved without artificial coloration, facilitating easier mixing in complex sound environments.

Applications and Target Users

This microphone is primarily targeted at professionals in the following sectors:

Theatre: For actors who require a discreet microphone that can survive the physical demands of a performance.
Broadcast: For news anchors and presenters who need high-quality audio without a bulky microphone obstructing the camera shot.
Public Speaking: For corporate presenters who require mobility and reliable audio reinforcement.

While home recording enthusiasts might look at entry-level options like the G4M Studio Condenser, the MKE 2 is a dedicated professional tool for those requiring mission-critical reliability.

Market Comparison

Within the Sennheiser ecosystem and the broader market, the MKE 2 sits as a premium lavalier solution. Compared to headset microphones like the Shure SM35-XLR or the Audix HT2, the MKE 2 offers a more discreet visual profile as it does not require a frame around the head. While studio vocalists might prefer the large-diaphragm characteristics of a Neumann TLM 103 or a Shure SM7B for controlled recording environments, the MKE 2 is the superior choice for portability and live movement. It offers a higher level of performance and durability than standard consumer-grade lavaliers.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the omnidirectional pattern on the MKE 2?: The omnidirectional pattern ensures that the microphone captures sound equally from all directions. This means the audio levels remain consistent even when the user moves their head or if the microphone shifts slightly during a performance.
How does the MKE 2 handle moisture during long performances?: The microphone features a unique 'umbrella diaphragm' design. This construction acts as a barrier, protecting the internal condenser capsule from sweat and humidity, which prevents common reliability issues in live theatre.
What type of connector does this specific model use?: This specific version of the MKE 2 is fitted with a 3-pin connector. It is designed to interface with professional wireless bodypack transmitters or audio equipment that accepts this standard.
Is the beige colour purely for aesthetics?: The beige finish is a functional choice intended for camouflage. It allows the microphone and cable to be more easily hidden against skin tones or light-coloured costumes, making it ideal for theatre and television.
Can the MKE 2 be used for studio singing recordings?: While it has a high-quality condenser capsule, it is primarily designed for speech and movement. For dedicated studio vocal recording, a large-diaphragm microphone like the Neumann TLM 102 would generally be preferred for its different tonal characteristics.
What makes the MKE 2 cable 'robust'?: The cable is specifically engineered for professional use, featuring reinforced materials to withstand the pulling, bending, and sweat exposure that occurs in daily broadcast and theatrical environments.
How does the MKE 2 compare to a headset microphone like the Shure SM35?: The MKE 2 is much more discreet as it clips onto clothing or is hidden in hair, whereas the SM35 uses a visible head-worn frame. However, a headset like the SM35 or Audix HT2 may provide better isolation in extremely loud environments.
Is the MKE 2 suitable for outdoor use?: Yes, its durable construction and moisture-resistant diaphragm make it well-suited for outdoor broadcasts. However, a windscreen is usually recommended for high-wind conditions.
What is the typical price range for the Sennheiser MKE 2?: The typical price for this professional lavalier microphone is approximately GBP 327. This reflects its status as a high-end, professional-grade audio tool.
Does this microphone require phantom power?: As a condenser microphone, it requires a power source. When used with a wireless bodypack, the transmitter provides the necessary bias voltage; if used wired, a phantom power adapter is required.
How small is the MKE 2 capsule?: The MKE 2 is a subminiature microphone, designed to be one of the smallest professional lavaliers available. This allows it to be hidden in buttonholes, hair, or behind costumes without being noticed by an audience.
Is the MKE 2 better than the SoundMAGIC E11D for professional audio?: These products serve completely different purposes. The SoundMAGIC E11D is a consumer-grade in-ear headphone for listening, while the MKE 2 is a professional-grade capture tool for broadcast and theatre.