
Oceania Audio is the Authorised NZ Distributor
Schoeps Mikrofone MK 4 Cardioid Capsule
Schoeps Mikrofone MK 4 Cardioid Capsule
The MK 4 has been a reference microphone for years in a wide variety of recording situations. Due to its transparent sound character and excellent attenuation of rear-incident sound, it reproduces sound sources very naturally. This has given the MK 4 a reputation as a universal "problem solver" even in difficult recording situations.
Its flat frequency response, and the constancy of its directional pattern for all frequencies, are the basis of the MK4’s sound quality. Even in the diffuse sound field its frequency response is flat, with a slight increase at 10 kHz compensating for high-frequency losses in the room.
Thus the sound image is transparent for direct-arriving sound, for sound arriving from the side, and for diffuse sound in the room (reverberation).
The MK 4 is a classic small-diaphragm microphone with all the advantages of this microphone type. Its frequency response and the consistency of its polar diagram from low to high frequencies are exemplary.
Like all SCHOEPS capsules, the MK 4 achieves its flat frequency response solely by its mechanical architecture, without any electronic filtering.
As a pressure gradient transducer, the MK 4 has a single diaphragm that is exposed to the sound from both the front and rear. The side sound inlets must therefore never be covered.
The “reach” (distance factor) of a classic cardioid such as the MK 4 is about 1.7 times that of an omnidirectional microphone. Thus even at greater distances from the sound source, direct sound can be obtained. The advantages of the MK 4 are shown especially when mixing several microphone signals - pickup of sound from the side is reduced in level but not subject to coloration.
At 90° the attenuation of the MK 4 is 6 dB, and at 180°, some 20 to 30 dB. Diffuse-incident sound is picked up 4.8 dB lower in level than front-arriving sound.
Features
Cardioid pattern
The best-selling Schoeps capsule
Directivity is highly independent of frequency
Universally applicable; preferred use as spot microphone, for acoustic instruments, and in conference recording
Often used in the main microphone pair for XY, ORTF and MS stereo recordings
Practice
The MK 4 is often preferred by opera singers and other trained vocalists. But its natural, transparent character also suits it very well for use in pop and rock applications, on stage or in the studio, where equalisation is a part of the plan. A microphone with a clear, neutral sound quality provides the ideal point of departure whenever special “colouring” is needed.
Specifications
Pickup pattern - Cardioid
Frequency range - 40 Hz - 26 kHz with CMC 6 / CMR
- 40 Hz - 41 kHz with CMC 6xt
Sensitivity - -36.5 dB (V/Pa), 15 mV/Pa with CMC 6
Equivalent noise level (A-weighted) - 14 dB with CMC 6
Equivalent noise level (CCIR) - 24 dB with CMC 6
Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted) - 80 dB with CMC 6
Maximum sound pressure level (THD < 0.5 %) - 131 dB-SPL with CMC 6
- Length - 22mm
- Diameter - 20mm
- Weight - 17g
Surface finish - Matte grey
- Custom colour: nickel, chromagreen
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When will my order be dispatched?
Orders are dispatched Tuesday, Wednesday via Courierpost. You will be sent an email confirmation with tracking details once your order is on its way to you. If you have any questions about your order, please email nigel@oceania-audio.co.nz or use the contact form on this website.
How long will it take for my order to be delivered?
Orders are usually delivered the day after they are shipped. Rural orders may take 1-2 extra days.
Why is my order taking longer than expected?
Sometimes we have to order stock in from our suppliers if we don’t have it on hand. Where there are delays or when products are on backorder, this will always be indicated on the product page.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is free within New Zealand and dispatched with Courier Post.
Can I pick up my order?
Orders are shipped from our warehouse. If you would like to pick your order up, please arrange with us prior to placing your order. Email nigel@oceania-audio.co.nz or contact us using the contact form on this website.
What if my order was wrong?
If your order was incorrect or faulty in any way, please let us know and we will make sure you get what you ordered.
What is your refund policy?
You can find out more about our refund policy.
NZ Delivery
We like to keep things simple... Shipping is always FREE within New Zealand.
Our shipping days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
All packages are sent out of Auckland, New Zealand.
Please allow up to 7 working days for your package to arrive before contacting us. Although we strive to have them arrive in 1-3 working days with rural, public holidays, weekends, or unforeseen circumstances, this can take longer, depending on the shipping option, location and payment option you chose.
Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a confirmation email with tracking details.
Please note: orders containing personalised or customised items may require additional processing time. Any extended timeframes will be clearly communicated at checkout or in your order confirmation.
Shipping Rates
Shipping is always FREE within New Zealand.
P.O. Boxes
We are currently unable to ship to P.O. Boxes. If a P.O. Box address is given by mistake we will contact you and this may cause a delay with the delivery of your package.
International Delivery
We don't currently ship outside of New Zealand, but if you aren't in New Zealand and see something you like, email sales@oceania-audio.co.nz and we will try to help you out.
Damaged, Lost or Missing Orders
If your order arrives damaged, incorrect, or is missing items, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery at sales@oceania-audio.co.nz with:
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Your order number
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Clear photos of the item and packaging
We will review each case individually and work towards a fair resolution in line with New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act obligations.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about shipping, delivery, or your order, please contact:
sales@oceania-audio.co.nz
Questions? Spot a better price?
Call +64 9 845 7800 or Contact us

