Will an additional $100 upgrade the clarity of a Sennheiser microphone for live performances?

Can a Hundred Dollars Afford a More Sonorous Sennheiser Microphone for Live Performances?

Sennheiser, a renowned name in the audio industry, offers two dynamic microphones suitable for live performances: the Sennheiser e835 and the e935. While both microphones share similarities, there are distinct differences that set them apart.

Pricing and Availability

The Sennheiser e835 is priced at $99, making it a more affordable option. On the other hand, the e935 costs £199, positioning it as a higher-end microphone. Both microphones are available from Sennheiser, Amazon, and other music equipment retailers.

Design and Construction

Both the Sennheiser e835 and e935 feature a cardioid pickup pattern, which is excellent at isolating the user's voice. The e935, however, boasts an all-metal construction and a shock-mounted diaphragm for reduced handling noise.

Efficiency and Sensitivity

The Sennheiser e935 is more efficient at rejecting unwanted sounds compared to the e835. It also has improved sensitivity, allowing it to capture more nuance with less floor noise. The e835, despite having a slightly lower frequency response range, can cut through murk with clarity and crispness.

Sound Quality and Performance

Upgrading from the Sennheiser e835 to the e935 with an additional $100 investment offers benefits such as a more professional sound quality optimized for vocals, better transient response, and usually improved feedback rejection. These improvements are noticeable, especially for vocalists seeking clarity and presence. The difference between the two microphones in terms of sound quality is small, but the e935 offers a slight edge for performers needing more headroom to capture the full stretch of a voice, both in live performances and in the recording studio.

Performers with lower voices may notice a bit more warmth and openness from the e935. The frequency response range for both microphones is 40Hz to 16kHz, with the e935 having a slightly better ability to reject unwanted sounds.

Warranty and Suitability

Both the Sennheiser e835 and e935 come with a 10-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind for users. It's worth noting that both microphones are designed for vocal applications, not musical instruments.

In conclusion, the Sennheiser e935, priced higher than the e835, offers improved sound quality, efficiency, and sensitivity, making it a worthwhile upgrade for vocalists seeking a more professional sound and increased clarity. The e835, while less expensive, remains a reliable choice for live performances, offering a robust and consistent microphone performance.