Sennheiser E835 Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone

The Sennheiser E835 (often styled as "e 835") is a highly popular dynamic cardioid microphone, particularly renowned as a workhorse for live vocals. It's part of Sennheiser's Evolution series and is often considered a direct competitor to the ubiquitous Shure SM58, frequently being preferred by users for its distinct sound characteristics.

It strikes an excellent balance of audio quality, feedback rejection, handling noise suppression, and rugged durability, all at a very accessible price point.

Here's a detailed look at its key features and specifications:

Core Design & Capsule:

• Dynamic Microphone: Like most stage microphones, it's a dynamic microphone, meaning it's built to handle very high sound pressure levels (SPLs) without distortion, making it ideal for powerful vocalists and loud stage environments (upwards of 150dB SPL).

• Cardioid Polar Pattern: This is the most common and versatile pickup pattern for live vocals. It means the microphone is most sensitive to sound coming from directly in front of it, while effectively rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. This is crucial for:

  • Excellent Feedback Rejection: Minimizes the chance of feedback from stage monitors or main speakers.

  • Reduced Stage Bleed: Isolates the vocal performance from other instruments on a busy stage.

• Hum Compensating Coil: An internal coil helps to reduce electromagnetic hum and interference (e.g., from lighting rigs or power cables), ensuring a cleaner signal.

Performance & Sound:

• Clear, Present, and Assertive Sound: The E835 is often described as having a brighter, more "open" and "crisp" sound compared to some of its competitors. It has a gentle presence boost in the upper mids, which helps vocals cut through a dense mix without sounding harsh or sibilant.

• Consistent Sound Quality: A key design goal for the E835 is its ability to maintain signal quality and tonal response even when the vocalist moves slightly on or off-axis, or varies their distance from the microphone. This makes it very forgiving for performers who might not have perfect mic technique.

• Minimal Proximity Effect: While all directional microphones exhibit some proximity effect (increased bass when close to the mic), the E835 is designed to have a minimal proximity effect, providing consistently clear bass even when singing very close to the capsule.

• Frequency Response: Typically 40 Hz - 16 kHz. This range is well-suited for capturing the full spectrum of the human voice.

• Sensitivity: 2.7 mV/Pa (-51.4 dBV), indicating a good output level.

• Output Impedance: 350 Ohms.

Physical Design & Durability:

• Rugged Metal Housing: The E835 is built for the road. Its durable metal construction ensures it can withstand the bumps, drops, and general wear and tear of live use.

• Advanced Internal Shockmount: The capsule is internally shock-mounted, which effectively decouples it from mechanical vibrations. This significantly reduces handling noise (thumps and rumbles from holding or moving the microphone), allowing for a clean vocal signal.

• Sleek Aesthetic: It has a modern, streamlined look, often with a black finish.

• No On/Off Switch (Standard Model): The most common E835 model does not have an on/off switch, which is preferred by many professional sound engineers to prevent accidental muting during a performance. (Note: There is an "E835 S" model which includes a switch).

Applications:

• Lead Vocals: This is its primary and most acclaimed application.

• Background Vocals: Excellent for ensuring clarity in a choir or backing vocal group.

• Speech and Presentations: Its clear and consistent sound makes it ideal for spoken word.

• Instrument Miking (Limited): While primarily a vocal mic, its robust build and clear sound can make it serviceable for some instruments in a pinch, such as guitar cabinets or even snare drum. However, specialized instrument mics (like the Sennheiser E609 or Shure SM57) are generally preferred for dedicated instrument miking.

Included Accessories:

• Microphone Clip (Sennheiser MZQ 800)

• Protective Pouch

The Sennheiser E835 is a highly recommended and widely used microphone for anyone needing a reliable, great-sounding, and durable dynamic vocal microphone for live performances, rehearsals, or even home studio recording. Its consistent performance and feedback rejection make it a top choice, especially given its affordable price