Topic: Sennheiser MKH40 vs MKH8040 vs MKH800 sound?

[notlance]

I am aware of the physical differences between these mics, but how do they sound compared to each other?  I would expect the '40 and '8040 would be quite similar and the '800 less so, but I don't really know.

I have a weakness for multi-pattern mics, so maybe I should get some MKH800s, but that is some serious coin.  Now if Sennheiser would just make a stereo version of the MKH800 I'd be all over that.

I edited my subject to make it clear I'm asking for opinions rather than offering an opinion.  Sorry for any misunderstanding.

[J.T.L]

Now if Sennheiser would just make a stereo version of the MKH800 I'd be all over that.

[John Willett]

..... Now if Sennheiser would just make a stereo version of the MKH800 I'd be all over that.

They do - two MKH 800s in MS 

I actually have a pair of all three of these and like them all - I have just never put them side by side and recorded the same thing to compare.

The 8040 go lower and higher than the 40, of course, and *do* sound very nice.  As the 8040 have an extra 10Hz in the bottom end compared to the 40 they do bring in the low end "warmth" of an instrument that the 40 may miss slightly because it rolls off slightly earlier - and I *do* know that the 40 has an excellent bottom end compared to other directionals - it's just that the 8040 is even better.

If you asked me which I would give up - I would have to say none of them - all will stay in my mic. kit.