Electro-Voice ND86 Dynamic Supercardioid Vocal vs Sennheiser Pro Audio E604 Dynamic Cardioid

Overview of the Electro-Voice ND86 and Sennheiser E604

The Electro-Voice ND86 is priced at $144.00, while the Sennheiser E604 kit costs $399.00. This represents a significant price difference, with the ND86 being about 64% cheaper than the E604 kit. Both microphones serve different purposes, catering to vocal and instrumental applications, making them unique in their own right.

The ND86 is a dynamic supercardioid vocal microphone, designed for high-performance use in large venues. Its robust build and acoustic control make it an excellent choice for vocalists seeking clarity and detail in their sound. On the other hand, the Sennheiser E604 is a dynamic cardioid instrument microphone optimized for miking drums and other percussion instruments, making it suitable for musicians who prioritize versatility and high sound pressure handling.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality and design of both microphones cater to their intended uses. The Electro-Voice ND86 features a durable, tight-mesh Memraflex grille, which resists denting and can withstand rough treatment. This durability is crucial for performers who may encounter unpredictable environments during live shows.

In contrast, the Sennheiser E604 comes in a kit of three microphones, designed with a reinforced glass fiber body that takes knocks and shocks while suppressing impact noise. This makes the E604 not only reliable for high-pressure situations, such as drumming, but also versatile enough for various brass and woodwind instruments. The lightweight design ensures easy handling and setup, appealing to musicians who need to move quickly between performances.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, both microphones excel within their designated niches. The Electro-Voice ND86 is precisely tuned to deliver a present, smooth, and detailed sound, making it an excellent choice for vocalists who want superior isolation from stage noise. Its large-diaphragm dynamic capsule creates a rich frequency response that enhances vocal performances.

On the other hand, the Sennheiser E604 offers a transparent and dynamic signal response tailored for high sound level handling, exceeding 160 dB. This capability makes it ideal for capturing the nuances of drums and percussion while also performing well with brass and woodwind instruments. The balanced, low distortion signal is akin to that of high-end studio condenser microphones, showcasing its versatility in various musical contexts.

Performance in Live Settings

In live settings, the performance of a microphone can make or break a show. The Electro-Voice ND86 is designed for excellent acoustic control, particularly in large venues, ensuring that vocalists are heard clearly even amidst a noisy backdrop. Its shock-mounted capsule minimizes handling noise, further enhancing the performance quality.

Conversely, the Sennheiser E604 is specifically optimized for drumming and percussion, where high sound pressure levels and transient response are critical. Its integral stand mount and included clip allow for easy attachment to drum rims, making setup straightforward. This microphone's ability to handle high sound levels without distortion makes it a reliable choice for high-energy performances.

Versatility and Use Cases

Versatility is a key factor when choosing a microphone. The Electro-Voice ND86 shines as a vocal microphone, ideal for singers in various musical genres, from rock to jazz. Its design ensures that it can handle different vocal styles while providing clear and detailed sound reproduction.

The Sennheiser E604, sold as a three-pack, is highly versatile, catering to various instruments beyond just drums. With its cardioid pick-up pattern, it can be effectively used for miking brass and woodwind instruments as well. This adaptability makes the E604 an excellent investment for bands or studios that require multiple microphones for different applications.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the Electro-Voice ND86 and the Sennheiser E604 is noteworthy. At $144.00, the ND86 is significantly more affordable compared to the E604 kit, which retails for $399.00. This price discrepancy of about $255 can influence purchasing decisions, particularly for those on a budget or those who require only a single vocal microphone.

While the E604 kit offers three microphones, which can justify its higher price for users needing multiple units, those focused on vocal performance may find the ND86 to be a better value. The average price of the E604 over the past 90 days is $343.45, highlighting its premium positioning in the market.

Customer Reception and Rankings

Both microphones have gained traction in the market, with notable sales ranks indicating their popularity. The Electro-Voice ND86 holds a sales rank of 44,080, while the Sennheiser E604 ranks much higher at 17,126. This suggests that the E604 is a preferred choice among users, particularly in the realm of instrument miking.

Customer reviews often highlight the ND86's clarity and reliability for vocals, while the E604 is praised for its exceptional performance in live settings and ability to handle various instruments. The differences in rankings reflect not only the intended use of each microphone but also user preferences and experiences.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Electro-Voice ND86 and the Sennheiser E604 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're a vocalist looking for a high-performance microphone that offers clarity and superior isolation, the ND86, priced at $144.00, is an excellent choice. However, if you're a musician or a band in need of versatile microphones for multiple instruments, the Sennheiser E604 kit, despite its higher cost of $399.00, provides three reliable options that excel in live performance scenarios.