Can a 416T run on 9 volts?

[dan_aka_jack]

Hi there,

I have an MKH-416T microphone which requires a 12v T-Power supply. For a while I've been using a 48v to 12v in line converter but I now want to build a 12v T-Power supply.

I know some microphones are quite flexible with respect to the exact supply voltage. Does anyone know if the MKH-416T will operate OK with a 9v supply voltage (so I can use a single 9v battery without requiring a DC-to-DC converter)?

 

[ZazaCast]

I have a T-Power power supply that uses a single 9v battery... and Sennheiser make one too... so yes, it is possible.

http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheise...l_wired-microphones_accessories_powersupplies

 

[Steve House]

I have a T-Power power supply that uses a single 9v battery... and Sennheiser make one too... so yes, it is possible.

http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheise...l_wired-microphones_accessories_powersupplies

Just because it has a nine volt battery doesn't mean the mic is running on nine volts. As for the OP's question, the best bet would be to contact Sennheiser and ask 'em.

 

[ZazaCast]

Just because it has a nine volt battery doesn't mean the mic is running on nine volts. As for the OP's question, the best bet would be to contact Sennheiser and ask 'em.

Yes.. that is correct, that's why I included the link.

"The MZA 14 TU is designed to supply AB (T)-powered condenser microphones (MKH 416 TU 3). A voltage transformer increases the voltage of a 9 V IEC 6 LF 22 (PP3 size) battery to 12 V. The unit is fitted with XLR connectors."

Thanks.:thumbsup:

 

[Glen Trew]

The spec for T-power is 10VDC-12VDC (the original Nagra preamps used 10VDC for T-power), but the 416T will operate with 9V. The early sure mixers of the 1980's -- the FP-31 and FP-32 -- in addition to being powered with two 9V batteries, had a third 9V battery that was used only for T-power (called "A-B power" by Shure).

Also, there was a popular modification to early Lectrosonics plug-on transmitters that used its 9V battery for T-power, even as the cut-off voltage went as low as 7.5V.

So yes, 9V can work. There may be a slight reduction in maximum SPL (sound pressure level) ability, but very unlikely enough to worry about.

As mentioned earlier in this topic, the modern power supplies made by PSC, Denecke, and Sennheiser use DC-DC converters to raise a 9V battery to 12V.

Glen Trew

 

[John Willett]

The Sennheiser T-power supply would use a DC/DC converter.

There used to be a popular little box in the UK that used two PP3 batteries.

Personally, I would not try to use it on 9V. Even if it works, you will lose headroom and transient response.

 

[brm]

Hey, I have an extra 12T power supply for sale, if you're interested....