The Sennheiser e 609 Silver is a dynamic microphone that is specially designed for miking guitar amps. Its extremely slimline form is strongly reminiscent of the legendary MD 409 and allows it to be suspended from its cable in front of the speaker cabinet, which saves not only time but also space on stages both large and small. The sound of the e 609 is characterised by the same authenticity and presence that users associate with the MD 409, and this microphone also cuts a fine figure when it is used to mike up percussion instruments. The scope of delivery includes a suitable microphone clip and a carrying case.
The e 609 Silver's capsule features an advanced shock mount design and is protected against potential damage by a robust metal grille. The microphone housing itself is also made of metal, so it is optimally protected against any mechanical influences, and Sennheiser has conveniently labelled the input side with the word "FRONT" in order to prevent incorrect placement. Thanks to the combination of a very light coil and a rigid dome, this microphone delivers an extended high-frequency response, which in turn results in a precise and punchy sound that has a high resolution and gives a very lively character to the tone of the instrument being miked. The data sheet indicates a slight boost of about 3dB in the range from about 2.5 to 6.0kHz.
The e 609 Silver from Sennheiser is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a practical, robust, and good-sounding microphone to mike up their amplifier: Its flat design allows it to be positioned directly in front of the amplifier without the need for a stand. The sturdy construction of the e 609 Silver ensures long-term durability, and the audible result is very direct, precise, and punchy. Another attractive feature is the microphone’s outstanding price-performance ratio, which will appeal to semi-professionals and professionals alike.
In June 1945, Prof. Fritz Sennheiser founded the Wennebostel Laboratory, which initially produced measuring equipment. Commissioned by Siemens in 1945, the young company developed the MD-1 microphone, which was launched in 1946. After the development of further microphones, the company was renamed Sennheiser Electronic in 1958. Two years later, Sennheiser introduced the MD 421 dynamic microphone, which is still in production today and still held in high esteem by many sound engineers. Further groundbreaking developments, such as the HD 414 headphones and the MD 441 microphone classic, hugely enhanced the company’s international reputation, eventually making Sennheiser one of the leading manufacturers of microphone and headphone systems in the world.
Even though the Sennheiser e 609 Silver is primarily designed for miking guitar amps, its natural, powerful sound also makes it very suitable for drums and other percussive instruments. The extended high-frequency response creates an "airy" tonal character with increased impact and precise mids. It should be noted of course that the design of the microphone can make it a little difficult to position between the shells and hardware of a drum kit, but this is not a problem with free-standing instruments.