German microphone manufacturer known for the modular Colette system: interchangeable capsules (omnidirectional to shotgun) paired with preamps like CMC 6.
Technical Details
The Colette modular system comprises capsules ranging from omnidirectional (MK 2H) to cardioid (MK 4V) to supercardioid (MK 41V), combinable with preamplifiers such as the CMC 6 (48V phantom power) or CMC 1L (compact design). The capsules feature gold-sputtered diaphragms with a thickness of 16-20 µm and achieve frequency responses from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB). Maximum sound pressure levels are between 132-144 dB SPL. The ORTF stereo set, with two MK 4V capsules at a 110° angle and 17 cm spacing, defines an industry standard.
History & Development
Karl Schoeps founded the company in 1948 in Duisburg, initially for tube microphones. In 1973, the Colette system with interchangeable capsules revolutionized the professional condenser microphone market. In 1982, the SuperCMIT series followed, featuring digital signal processing for directivity optimization. The acquisition by Posthorn Recordings in 2008 secured the manufacturing tradition. Since 2019, the compact V4 microphones have complemented the portfolio for modern mobile productions.
Practical Use in Film
The Schoeps MKH 50 (today: CMC 6 + MK 41V) as a standard shotgun microphone shaped generations of sound engineers in feature film productions. The ORTF configuration with MK 4V became established for atmospheric recordings and music scenes, for example in "Whiplash" (2014) for the jazz performances. SuperCMIT microphones digitally cut out ambient noise in exterior recordings without mechanical interference tubes. The modular system allows for quick adjustments between interior and exterior shoots by changing capsules on set.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to the Sennheiser MKH series, Schoeps offers a more neutral tonal coloration, while Sennheiser is more robust in adverse conditions. The Audio-Technica 4073a costs 60% less but does not achieve Schoeps' precision in speech intelligibility. The Rode NTG series dominates the prosumer market, while Schoeps remains unrivaled in high-end productions. The DPA 4017 achieves similar naturalness but is less modular. The Colette flexibility makes Schoeps the first choice for rental houses and versatile production requirements.