Sennheiser e835 Microphone Review: Worth it?

When it comes to live vocal microphones, few models spark as much debate as the Sennheiser e835. For decades, the Shure SM58 has dominated stages, churches, events, and rehearsal spaces around the world. But the big question many musicians and sound engineers are asking today is simple: Can the Sennheiser e835 finally dethrone the SM58 as the best $100 live mic?

In this in-depth Sennheiser e835 review, we break down its history, specs, real-world performance, and overall sound quality. This article is designed to give you a solid understanding of the e835 — and if you want to hear exactly how it performs, I’ve included a full hands-on sound test in my video review on the Sonic Spectrum YouTube channel.

A Quick Look at the Sennheiser e835’s History

The Sennheiser e835 dynamic microphone has been around since the late 1990s, and there’s a reason it’s still one of the best-selling stage microphones today. Designed specifically for live performance, the e835 quickly earned a reputation for clarity, durability, and reliability.

Unlike many budget microphones that fade into obscurity, the e835 has remained a staple in live sound, corporate events, houses of worship, and touring rigs for over two decades. That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident.

At its core, the Sennheiser e835 is a cardioid dynamic microphone, meaning it focuses on sound directly in front of the mic while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for loud stages and PA systems where feedback control is critical.

Key specs include:

• Pickup pattern: Cardioid

• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 16 kHz

• Build: Rugged all-metal construction

• Price: Around $99 USD or $130–140 CAD
  

On paper, these specs place the e835 right in the same competitive category as the Shure SM58 — but specs alone don’t tell the full story.

Sennheiser e835 Specs and Key Features

Real-World Sound Test: How Does the e835 Actually Perform?

One of the biggest reasons the Sennheiser e835 stands out is its clear, present vocal tone. It has a slightly more open and crisp sound compared to some other dynamic microphones, which helps vocals cut through a live mix without sounding harsh.

In my full video review on Sonic Spectrum, I test the e835 through two different PA speaker setups. This allows you to hear how the mic performs in real-world conditions, not just in a studio environment. Whether you’re running a compact PA for small gigs or a larger system for events, hearing the mic across different speakers makes a huge difference when choosing the right gear.

This kind of hands-on testing is exactly what Sonic Spectrum is all about — real gear, real sound, no fluff.

Who Is the Sennheiser e835 Best For?

The e835 is an excellent choice for:

• Live singers and musicians

• DJs who need a reliable vocal mic

• Event hosts and presenters

• Churches and conference spaces

• Anyone upgrading from an entry-level microphone
  

Its durability makes it ideal for frequent use, while its clarity makes it a solid option for both spoken word and vocals.

My First Impressions and Overall Thoughts

After spending time with the Sennheiser e835, it’s easy to see why it has remained so popular for so long. It delivers consistent performance, solid feedback rejection, and a clean sound that works across many applications.

Does it beat the Shure SM58? That depends on your voice, your PA system, and your personal preference — which is exactly why I’m working on a side-by-side comparison between the e835 and the SM58 next. If that’s something you don’t want to miss, subscribing to the channel is a no-brainer.

Watch the Full Sennheiser e835 Review on The Sonic Spectrum

Reading about microphones is helpful — but hearing them is what really matters.

If you’re into PA speakers, live microphones, DJ gear, and music equipment reviews, Sonic Spectrum is built for you. I regularly test gear from brands like Sennheiser, Shure, Bose, Alto, Yamaha, and more — all to help you make smarter buying decisions.

👉 Click the link below to watch the full hands-on Sennheiser e835 review on the Sonic Spectrum YouTube channel, where you’ll hear real sound tests, PA comparisons, and my honest thoughts after using this mic in real situations.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Sonic Spectrum on YouTube so you don’t miss the upcoming Sennheiser e835 vs Shure SM58 comparison and future gear reviews.