Along with its redesigned appearance, the second-generation MKE 400 boasts significant upgrades over the original MKE 400 to make it even more effective and versatile.

• Swappable 3.5mm TRS and TRRS output cables
• 3.5mm headphone port with volume control
• 3-stage gain control (the original MKE 400 had two gain positions)
• Auto-power function
• Integrated wind protection
• Furry windshield included for outdoor wind protection
• Compatible with Sennheiser’s CL 35 USB-C cable (available separately) for direct digital connection to a mobile device’s USB Type-C port

Measuring just 5″ long and weighing only 3.3 ounces, the MKE 400 is an unobtrusive companion for your camera- or smartphone-based video rig; it will never intrude on the shot and it’s so light that you’ll forget it’s even there. Also, the integral shoe mount allows the MKE 400 to be attached directly to your camera, no external hardware required.

Most built-in camera and smartphone microphones are omnidirectional to pick up sound from all directions, which results in undue noise and ambience. The MKE 400 uses a supercardioid polar pattern enhanced by an acoustic interference tube to focus on sources in front of the mic while attenuating side- and rear-entry sound. Low-noise electronics and a sensitive condenser element allow it to deliver more detailed audio than the mics typically found in cameras, mobile devices, and portable recorders.

The MKE 400’s 3.5mm output port can be connected to a range of devices using the two supplied coiled cables, each featuring a locking 3.5mm TRS plug on one end that prevents accidental disconnection at the mic.

One cable is terminated with a standard 3.5mm TRS plug for compatible hookup to your camera, DSLR, or portable handheld audio recorder, while the other cable has a 3.5mm TRRS plug to allow direct connection to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

A vital step before recording audio is to check your levels and monitor your sound. While some cameras have a headphone jack, not all do, and that’s where the headphone monitoring output comes into play. Plug any 3.5mm headphone directly into the MKE 400 and use the integrated volume control to make sure the sound is clear.

The MKE 400 can run for up to 100 hours on a pair of AAA batteries (available separately), so you’ll be able to knock out plenty of shoots before needing new batteries. The low-battery indicator lets you know when you have approximately three hours of operating time remaining. The MKE 400’s auto-power function uses plug-in power (2 to 10V) from your device to automatically turn it on and off, preventing unnecessary battery drain.

The MKE 400 incorporates internal shock absorption to reject the transfer of vibrations such as camera/smartphone handling noise. Plus, the bottom of the MKE 400 features a camera shoe mount, ensuring simple attachment to your camera or shoe-equipped stand or gimbal.