Newer Sennheiser 421's vs. Older Sennheiser 421's

[markjazzbassist]

I wanna pick up a Sennheiser 421 to record my vintage Ampeg B-15 Cab tone. I'm debating between picking up a newer one (MD421II U4), an older one (421 no I's or U's), or a vintage one (white model with teuschel connector).

Does anyone know if they sound different? And or which is best for a nice warm bass cab response?

Also, the teuschel connector doesn't worry me, since they have adapter's i can get to switch it over to XLR.

Thanks.

[lambro]

yes they sound different. I have owned several and now have a vintage creme model, the older ones sound warmer, this is desirable for guitar (which is what I use it for) but maybe not so critical for a tube bass amp where you might actually want something a little more accurate as the B-15 are about as warm sounding as they get.

the earlier black ones are probably the most heavily used of all the models, so many studios use them. Santana's guitar cab on Supernatural, kick drums on too many LPs to mention. Also benefit there is you don't need any extra connectors

oh and if you do get an old creme colored one you ll need a special mic stand thread adapter.

[markjazzbassist]

thanks!

[hunta]

Good info!