Gearslutz.com - View Single Post - Senheiser 421 versus 521 versus 441, what's the difference ?

Henrik · 15th October 2003

I wouldn't say the 421 has a bigger peak in the top end than the 441. To my ears, the 441 is more delicate, bright but still soft sounding compared to the 421, which I find to be thicker and grittier. The 441 is one of my favourites for snare drum and some vocals, while the 421 rocks on guitar and bass cabs. I've also used the 421 for snare, which gave a thick sound that I think would be useable for disco or classic soul. I've never used the 421 on kick, but many people swear by it. It's also a standard for close micing toms, which I rarely do. I think both mics would be very good on horns as well.

Bottom line, both mics are amazing and very versatile. And they complement each other wonderfully.

Haven't tried the 521.

Cheers
/Henrik

15th October 2003	#5
Henrik Gear maniac Joined: Sep 2002 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Posts: 199	I wouldn't say the 421 has a bigger peak in the top end than the 441. To my ears, the 441 is more delicate, bright but still soft sounding compared to the 421, which I find to be thicker and grittier. The 441 is one of my favourites for snare drum and some vocals, while the 421 rocks on guitar and bass cabs. I've also used the 421 for snare, which gave a thick sound that I think would be useable for disco or classic soul. I've never used the 421 on kick, but many people swear by it. It's also a standard for close micing toms, which I rarely do. I think both mics would be very good on horns as well. Bottom line, both mics are amazing and very versatile. And they complement each other wonderfully. Haven't tried the 521. Cheers /Henrik