New at AES: Sennheiser MKE Platinum Lavalier Mic

Size really does matter in live performance and broadcast sound, where clip-on microphones should be heard and not seen. The new MKE Platinum is a very unobtrusive, yet extremely rugged sub-miniature microphone.

The successor to the MKE 2, sub-miniature clip-on lavalier microphone family, the MKE Platinum has been designed to meet the exacting requirements of live sound engineers, theater and broadcast. Insensitive to handling noise and moisture, it features outstanding electrical and acoustical properties. The MKE Platinum utilizes low-capacitance, ultra-thin and flexible, yet extremely rugged, damage-resistant cable to ensure easy, unobtrusive attachment of the microphone and years of trouble-free service.

The MKE Platinum, practically invisible in use, is built to exacting tolerances and features an optimized treble response for improved headroom at the wireless body-pack transmitter. Bass response is optimized through precise capsule ventilation design, and with a very smooth THD curve, the MKE Platinum will handle sound pressure levels up to 142 dB. The hermetically sealed capsule and improved embossed "umbrella" diaphragm protects the microphone against moisture and ensures a longer working life than competing products.

"Although we have been the market leader in miniature microphones for decades, the performance and size requirements for an improved lavalier mic became evident to us over the past few years" states Karl Winkler, director of marketing communications at Sennheiser. "Our goal to produce a smaller, more rugged product, but with even better sound than the MKE 2, was quite a challenge, but has been fulfilled with the new Platinum version."