What Microphone Does Marques Brownlee Use? Full Audio Setup

Marques Brownlee, popularly known as MKBHD, is one of the most famous and respected tech reviewers on YouTube. With 19.9 million subscribers, his content stands out for its cinematic visuals, in-depth reviews, and professional-grade production.

MKBHD creates tech product reviews, smartphone comparisons, podcasts, and interviews. Whether he’s breaking down the specs of the latest iPhone or talking about the AI future and news, his voice is always crystal clear, and it’s credit goes to a high-end microphone setup.

In this article, I will tell you exactly which microphone Marques uses, and why it suits his style, a detailed review of the mic, alternatives, and a breakdown of his full audio setup.

What Microphone Does Marques Brownlee Use?

Microphone: Sennheiser MKH 416 Shotgun Microphone.

This professional-grade shotgun microphone is commonly used in film, broadcast, and voice-over work. The Sennheiser MKH 416 delivers clean, directional, and rich audio for spoken content in treated studio environments.

Where it’s used:
You can spot this mic in his behind-the-scenes footage and Waveform Podcast recordings. While it’s often out of frame, its precise pickup pattern makes it perfect for off-camera use.

Sennheiser MKH 416 – Full Review

Key Features:

• Supercardioid and lobar pickup pattern.
• Very low self-noise (13 db).
• Phantom-powered condenser.
• Compact & rugged build for professional use.
• Excellent off-axis rejection.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Exceptional voice clarity.

• Highly directional and blocks background noise.
• Industry-standard for voiceovers and studio work.
• Great for podcasting and interviews.

Cons:

• Expensive for beginners.
• Requires an audio interface or phantom power.
• Not ideal for untreated rooms.

Price Range:

Buy Sennheiser MKH 416 Shotgun Microphone at micprice for $ 760.

Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3,Ideal for Film Sound,Radio & Broadcast Applications.

Why Marques Brownlee Chose This Mic?

MKBHD runs a professional studio setup where clear audio is a priority. The MKH 416 allows him to record clean audio while keeping the mic out of frame, which fits his clean aesthetic.

Performance needs: Directional pickup minimises echo and room noise.

Studio setup: Treated space with controlled acoustics.

Personal preference: Used by voice-over professionals and recommended by industry experts.

Alternatives to Sennheiser MKH 416

Full Audio Setup of Marques Brownlee:

Audio Interface: Sound Devices MixPre-3 II.

Boom Arm: Rode PSA1.

Pop Filter: Built-in foam windscreen (for outdoor work).

Software: Final Cut Pro + Adobe Audition for editing.

Should You Use the Same Mic?

The Sennheiser MKH 416 is perfect for:

• Podcasters.
  Filmmakers.
  Professionals with treated studios.

However, if you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, this mic might not be for you. 

Consider the Rode NTG4+ or AT875R for a more affordable one.

Conclusion

Marques Brownlee’s microphone choice of the Sennheiser MKH 416 proves his commitment to studio-grade sound. Its clarity, directivity, and reliability make it a top-tier choice for creators. Do you ever use this mic, or thinking of using it?