The MKH 8000 series from Sennheiser was introduced last year at AES, and at this year's AES, Sennheiser is unveiling the newest addition to the high-end line of condensers: The MZD digital module.

Like the ENCOM digitizing laser, the MZD 8000 module seeks to create the most accurate digital representation of reality by placing the A/D converter at the capsule. When digitalization occurs at this early stage in the signal path, degradation cased by interference or cable capacitance is virtually eliminated (see Neumann's "Dolution-D" Series for another hi-fi example).

In addition to offering digitization at the capsule, digital modules like the MZD enable remote control over mic functions such as bass roll-off and -X dB pads. By attaching via any AES 2 compliant digital interface, dedicated control software provides control over these functions from the control room.

As a sort of "coming-out" party for the new MZD 8000, Sennheiser has made this announcement:

Baptism of fire
The first completely digital recording using MKH 8000 microphones will take place at the end of May: the orchestra of the University of Music and Drama in Hanover, conducted by Eiji Oue, Principal Conductor of the NDR Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, will be recording Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17 and Ravel’s orchestration of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Those interested in finding out about the new digital microphones prior to this event are warmly invited to attend the Sennheiser workshops in Room M.

Hmm. . . "Baptism of fire?" "Warmly invited?" OMG, IT'S A TRAP! WHATEVER YOU DO DON'T GO TO ROOM M, YOU'LL BE BURNED ALIVE!!!!