Anyone know the difference is in the 'P' vs a 'T' or whatever other letters can be part of an MKH 416?

the P is actually P48 which means it is powered via 48v phantom power. The T stands for the older power system, T-power, which is 12v. some mixers will offer both, but I beleive PP48v is slowly replacing T-power on all the newer mics.

i read a little while ago that the "T" is an older version of the current mkh416. it runs on 12 volts, so you would probably need an adapter for it to run off 48 volt power (most cameras today). otherwise, i believe it's the same mic.

I have a T powered 416. It works just as well as the current version, and it cost a lot less. I use an outboard power box that clips on the belt and uses a 9 volt battery.

Thanks very much to all of you - great help!

I don't want to add confusion to the issue BUT "T" power is not balanced as Phantom is.

Phantom power puts +48V (or +12V) on pins 2 and 3.

Tonander power puts +12 V on pin 2 only .. pin 1 is ground.

Manfred

So how much does that impact the sound or continuity issues?

Hi..

To the best of my knowledge the microphones are otherwise the same.

Manfred