In a nutshell

Schoeps CMC 6 (combined here with figure-8 pattern MK 8 capsule) is part of this family microphones which are very popular on TV stages and in radio studios; they have built their reputation there thanks to a large number of "active" accessories allowing many fittings and combinations. Their precision and their transparency have made them favorites for stereo pair recording. CMC 5/CMC 6 microphone preamps, which only differ in their powering, can be detached away from MK series capsules via KC active cable (integrating FET) or via GVC swivel which allows the angle between capsule and body axis to be adjusted. CMCx preamps have neither attenuator, nor low-cut filter.

Our recommendations

When MK 8 capsule is used on an MS pair, it is necessary to compensate for its lower amplification sensitivity (-2.5 dB) compared to MK 4 cardioid capsule, in order not to narrow the recording angle. Bidirectional capsule MK 8 (pressure gradient transducer) is wind and movement sensitive; although its bass response is lower than cardioid or hypercardioid capsule, it nevertheless requires the use of a windscreen (foam or polyester basket-type B 20/W 20) when it is mounted on a moving boom, or placed close to the mouth (plosives).