Sennheiser E935 Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Sennheiser E935 (often styled as "e 935") is a premium dynamic cardioid microphone from Sennheiser's acclaimed Evolution 900 Series. It's specifically engineered for lead vocals in demanding live performance environments, aiming to provide a high-output, articulate, and punchy sound that consistently cuts through a busy mix.

It represents a significant step up from the 800 series (like the E835/E845) in terms of refined sound and often build quality, positioning it as a favorite among professional musicians and rental companies.

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

Core Design & Capsule:

• Dynamic Microphone: Like other professional stage microphones, it's a dynamic microphone, built to withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs) without distortion. This makes it ideal for powerful vocalists in loud stage environments.

• Cardioid Polar Pattern: The E935 features a cardioid pickup pattern. This means it is most sensitive to sound coming directly from the front, while effectively rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. This is crucial for:

  • Excellent Feedback Rejection: Minimizes the likelihood of feedback from stage monitors and PA systems.

  • Strong Isolation: Helps isolate the vocalist's voice from other instruments on stage, contributing to a cleaner mix.

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

• Shock-Mounted Capsule: The capsule is internally shock-mounted, which significantly reduces sensitivity to impact noise and handling noise (thumps and rumbles from holding or moving the microphone).

Performance & Sound:

• High Output, Punchy, and Clear Sound: The E935 is known for its high output, meaning it delivers a strong signal to the mixer, requiring less preamp gain. Its sound is often described as very present, articulate, and assertive, with a powerful low-mid and a smooth, defined high end. This helps vocals sit prominently in a mix without sounding harsh.

• Extended and Refined Frequency Response: It offers a wide frequency response, typically 40 Hz - 18 kHz. Compared to the E835 (40 Hz - 16 kHz), the E935 has a slightly more extended and often more controlled high-end, providing greater detail and "air" to the vocal.

• Consistent Sound with Varied Technique: While it has a cardioid pattern, Sennheiser designed it to maintain consistent sound quality even with slight variations in a vocalist's mic technique (moving a bit off-axis or varying distance).

• Falcon Ring: Sennheiser mentions a "Falcon ring" in its design, which aims to provide consistent sound characteristics over time, regardless of climate, contributing to its reliability for touring musicians.

• Neodymium Ferrous Magnet with Boron: Used in the transducer for stability and consistent performance.

Physical Design & Durability:

• Rugged Metal Construction: The E935 is built like a tank. Its heavy-duty metal housing is designed to withstand the rigorous demands of daily stage use and touring, ensuring exceptional reliability.

• Sleek Design: It has a professional, sleek black finish.

• No On/Off Switch (Standard Model): The most common E935 model does not include an on/off switch, which is generally preferred in professional live sound environments to prevent accidental muting during a performance. (Note: A version with a switch, E935-S, is not typically listed, as the E835-S and E845-S cover this need, and professional 900 series users often prefer no switch.)

Applications:

• Lead Vocals (Live): This is its primary and most acclaimed application. Its ability to cut through a dense mix and resist feedback makes it a go-to for rock, pop, R&B, and other genres.

• Powerful Vocalists: Particularly well-suited for singers who need their voice to project with authority.

• Speech and Presentations: Can also be used for high-quality spoken word due to its clarity and robust build.

Included Accessories:

• Microphone Clip (Sennheiser MZQ 800)

• Protective Pouch

E935 vs. E835/E845 - The "Step Up":

While the E835 and E845 are excellent, affordable workhorse microphones, the E935 offers:

• More Refined Sound: A more detailed, open, and often "hi-fi" sound, particularly in the mid and high frequencies.

• Higher Output: A hotter signal, which can be beneficial with some preamps.

• Even More Robust Build: Often perceived as having a slightly more premium and robust feel, designed for heavy touring.

• Price Point: It sits at a higher price point, reflecting its position as a professional-grade stage microphone.

The Sennheiser E935 is an investment for professional vocalists and sound engineers who demand top-tier performance, exceptional clarity, and unflappable reliability in challenging live environments.