The MK 21 is slightly dependent on frequency. This contrasts with omnidirectional capsules, whose directivity increases with rising frequency, and with cardioids (at least smaller ones), which tend to accentuate high frequencies that arrive at oblique angles. This type of capsule has a directional pattern between omni and cardioid. The basic idea in designing this capsule was to combine the advantages of the cardioid with those of the omni. This results in a pickup pattern which blends the two sets of characteristics. It has fuller and more extended low-frequency response than a cardioid, with less proximity effect, while picking up more room sound than a cardioid.
Features
- Wide cardioid
- Especially consistent directionality throughout its frequency range
- Pleasant sonic impression, often described as “warm”
- Often preferred for use as a spot microphone, or as the main pair for overall stereo pickup