Anyone own or ever use a real Sennheiser MD409?

[Gi-gi-giggity]

If so, how would you describe it? How about compared to (if possible) others like the 421 or 609?

 

[AndyZ]

Haven't actually used the 409, but in sound samples I've heard, the E906 in the middle position will get you closest to it. I believe the 421 with give you more low and high end. This is usually why it pairs well with a 57, which has the mid eq clarity. I myself use the E906 quite a lot lately when using a single close mic and use the middle position the most.

 

[Gi-gi-giggity]

So are you suggesting that it takes two mics like the 57 and the 421 to possibly achieve what a single 409 could/may?

In a word....

 

[AndyZ]

No not really. Sorry to confuse the issue. I didn't really explain clearly.

The E906 in middle position will get you close to an MD409 with a current production model. I don't think the 421 sounds like the 409. Merely was starting that this is a tried and true combination of a 57 and 421. Having just picked up a vintage 421, I plan on doing some tracking soon with the 906 and 421 to compare with the 57 and 421 combination.

Here's a great thread on the 409 vs 906 vs 609 on Gearslutz that may help...
http://www.gearslutz.com/board/so-m...69350-sennheiser-409-609-906-audio-clips.html

 

[Gi-gi-giggity]

Gotcha, thanks Andy.

I'd still like to have anyone with first hand experience chime in if they can.

 

[JohnM]

Yes - I have a md409 - used it for years on guitar amps until it just stopped working. I just haven't gotten it fixed yet. Started using an Audix i5 because my soundguy really likes it. The i5 is pretty sweet too.
The MD409 is warmer than 421 or 609, with smoother highs in my experience, to the point that some soundmen will think something's wrong...("Mungo like sm57 better...") Just kidding if anyone is a FOH guy....

 

[Gi-gi-giggity]

That's my fear about picking up an older 409, but I suppose it could happen to anything.
I see some vintage 421s out there that are pretty sweet too.