MD421 Screen Design

[AstroDan]

So...the MD421 has that plastic strip across the screen. You know, where the logo is. I know screen design plays a role in the sonic difference between the SM57 and SM58, so I wonder if anyone has any theory on how dependant the MD421's sound is on that plastic bridge/strip. I'm sure in the 35 or so years of manufacturing that Sennheiser has experimented with different designs, but has anyone happened to use this mic sans the screen?

(...yes, I'm out of ideas for a thread. It was either this, or 'Level Loc vs. The 7 Band Radio Shack EQ'.)

[rodabod]

I reckon it has little impact on the sonic qualities of the mic.

I do think that it well help avoid popping for vocals though (like the pencil trick) as it will break up the air moving.

It also holds the two mesh grill sections together.