Shure Rolls Out Latest Line of KSM Microphones

Shure has unveiled the latest additions to its line of KSM microphones – the new KSM42 and KSM44A. KSM microphones deliver solid sound reproduction from electro-acoustical design and technology.

The KSM42 is a premium, side-address, cardioid condenser microphone for premier vocal recording. With a tailored frequency response and extensive internal and external pop filtering, the single-pattern, dual-diaphragm design of the KSM42 exhibits a dynamic range and smooth proximity control for studio applications.

KSM42

““We built the KSM42 so that it would excel in studio vocal applications,” says Chad Wiggins, Shure’s Category Manager for Wired Products. “From the capsule and the preamp to the housing and the accessories, we designed the KSM42 to deliver a natural environment for sophisticated performance and recording. When engineers put the KSM42 in front of a vocalist, they’re going to get a consistent tonal quality whether that vocalist is two inches from the microphone or two feet away.”

The KSM44A is a large-diaphragm, side-address condenser microphone that can be used in a variety of live and studio applications.

KSM44A

“The KSM44A is truly a feat in engineering,” Wiggins explains. “We’ve lowered the self-noise while simultaneously increasing the max sound pressure level (SPL). The result is seven additional decibels of pure dynamic range.”

The KSM42 retails for $799 with a $999 MSRP. The KSM44A retails $999 with a $1,249 MSRP. The KSM42 and KSM44A  microphones will be available in July, carry a two-year limited warranty, and can be purchased at select retail partners.

Unique features of the KSM44A include:

• Multiple polar patterns–cardioid, omnidirectional and bidirectional–for maximum flexibility in a wide variety of recording applications
• Dual one-inch, externally biased, ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass diaphragms for superior frequency response
• Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors
• Subsonic filter, which eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 hertz (cycles per second)
• Three-position switchable low-frequency filter that helps reduce unwanted stand vibration noise or counteract proximity effect
• Integrated three-stage “pop” protection grille that reduces breath noise

Unique features of the KSM42 include:

• Highly consistent cardioid polar pattern creating a broad “sweet spot” and natural off-axis response for superior sound quality
• Dual-diaphragm design with an active front, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold, low mass, one-inch Mylar diaphragm
• Integrated three-stage mesh grille, which guards against wind and breath noise.
• Open cage ShureLock rubber suspension shock mount with low-profile magnetic pop filter, producing a natural space between the performer and his or her microphone
• Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors
• Internal shock mount to reduce unwanted handling and stand noise

New KSM137 and KSM 141 Stereo Pair Bundles

In addition to these two new microphones, new stereo pair bundles are available for the KSM137 and KSM141.  The stereo pair versions of these models now include the A27M Stereo Microphone Adapter as a standard accessory. The A27M is designed to hold two microphones in selectable positions.  This unique accessory allows two microphones to share one stand without losing independent positioning flexibility.

These new stereo pairs will begin shipping in July. The KSM137 Stereo Pair will be priced at $665 retail ($832 MSRP) and the KSM141 Stereo Pair will be priced at $870 retail ($1,088 MSRP).