For many years now I’ve recorded everything on my workhorse Audio Technica AT-4033 microphone. This includes work that is running on PBS (2 documentaries in the last year) and lots of other places. But, thanks to my friend Willie Edwards, who put me in touch with our now mutual friend John Weeks, I’ve just added the Sennheiser MHK416P48 microphone to my studio.
Using a piece of Mattel audition copy I received some weeks ago, and recording with both microphones at the same time on separate channels of my Pro Tools workstation, here’s an opportunity for you to compare the sound of the two microphones.
First the AT-4033…
And then the MHK416…
[audio:https://bobsouer.com/pix/BobSouer_MHK416.mp3]Aside from the fact that these are MP3 audio files, there is no audio processing. Just my dry voice. Keep in mind, which ever sound you like better, this is an example that really only applies to my voice in my studio. Your mileage will vary depending on a host of factors, including the unique characteristics of your voice, your recording space and so on. But, I hope this will be at least a little bit useful as you think about your own microphone choices.
(Update: Willie Edwards was nice enough to post his thoughts and comments about this test on his VO Mic Test blog.)
Just purchased one myself a few months back (previously used a U87 and AKG 414 XLII. WOW! What a great mike. I haven’t looked back…
Billy,
So far, after just one day of use, I’m very happy with this new mic, too. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Be well,
Bob
Hi Bob,
Thank you for your samples. I really loved the sound of 4033 sample and made me decide to buy one. It seems like it has very warm sound with silky high end. This is exactly what I want. Hopefully it will work with my VO artists.
I also listened to your samples at your blog and I really liked the audio book sample. I asume you used 4033 because it has similar charactor but this one has little more low end which I really like very much.
I’m currious to know what kind of EQ and compressor used to get this kind of warm sound.
Also, these samples remind me “I think I heard your voice somewhere”. Probably, on some movie trailers. Your must be a famous VO artists.
Looking forward to hear more of your wonderfull voice.
Chears!
Hideki,
Thank you for your kind comments. The audiobook demo was recorded with three different microphones, none of which was the AT-4033. There was no compression or EQ used for the audiobook demo, so far as I know.
Be well,
Bob
Bob,
Wow! It was quick.
Thank you for sharing the tricks with us.
I guess the real pro don’t need many gears.
I think you really have a gifted voice.
4033 will arive next week from the U.S..
I can’t wait to check’m out.
Hideki