Shure KSM44 Large Dual-Diaphragm Microphone

by Shure

Product Features

• Three polar patterns (Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Bidirectional) for greater flexibilty in a wide variety of recording applications.
• Transformerless preamplifer circuitry provides extremely flat transient response and no crossover distortion for improved linearity across the full frequency range
• Low frequency filter virtually eliminates background noise
• 15 dB attenuation switch handles very high input SPL sources
• Ultra-thin, dual diaphragms for precise sound articulation
• Three polar patterns for greater flexibilty in a wide variety of recording applications.
• Transformerless preamplifer circuitry provides extremely flat transient response and no crossover distortion

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 7.4 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches ; 1.1 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 7.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
• ASIN: B0002E5392
• Item model number: KSM44/SL
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #28,976 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments)
  • #11 in Musical Instruments > Recording Equipment > Microphones > Condenser Microphones > Instrument

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

The KSM44/SL is a multiple pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional), externally biased, dual large diaphragm condenser microphone with extremely low self-noise (7dB). Developed to meet the needs of studio recording musicians, the warm, rich sound of the KSM44 delivers exceptional performance, tailored to deliver vivid reproduction of voice for the most critical recordings. The KSM44 also offers great flexibility in a variety of recording applications, working well on acoustic and amplified instruments, as its capacity for managing high SPLs accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers.

Features:

• Dual 1-inch, externally biased, ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass, Mylar ® diaphragms provide superior transient response
• Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response and no crossover distortion; Minimizes harmonic and intermodulation distortions
• Full-range frequency response (20 Hz - 20 KHz) for an extremely accurate reproduction of voice and instruments
• Extremely low self noise (7 dBA) for critical studio vocal recording
• Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors
• Subsonic filter eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 Hz
• 15 dB attenuation switch for handling high input SPL sound sources
• 3-position switchable low-frequency filter virtually eliminates unwanted background noise and controls proximity effect
• Durable zinc die-cast housing and hardened low carbon steel grille to protect the cartridge from accidental drops or misuse
• Uniform polar response provides natural off-axis response for critical recording
• An integrated three-stage pop protection grille to guard against wind and breath noise
• An internal shock mount to reduce unwanted handling and stand noise

Performance Characteristics:

• Extended frequency response
• Very low self-noise
• Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
• High output level
• High input SPL capability
• No cross-over distortion
• Extremely uniform polar response
• Superior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interference

Each KSM44/SL comes supplied complete with:

• Color-matched ShureLock TM elastic-suspension shock mount
• ShureLock TM swivel mount
• Protective velveteen pouch
• Locking aluminum carrying case

Applications: The KSM44/SL is designed as a premium vocal microphone for studio recording. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. Here is a non-exhaustive list of common applications:

• Vocals -- solo, background, voice-over
• Acoustic instruments -- such as piano, guitar, drums, percussion, strings
• Wind instruments -- brass and woodwind
• Low frequency instruments -- such as double bass, electric bass, kick drum
• Overhead miking -- drums or percussion
• Ensembles -- choral or orchestral
• Room ambiance pick-up -- guitar amplifier or drums

Of course, both the acoustic environment and microphone placement have significant effects on the sound obtained when miking any sound source. We encourage users to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound.

Product Description

The KSM44/SL is a multiple pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional), externally biased, dual large diaphragm condenser microphone with extremely low self-noise (7dB). Developed to meet the needs of studio recording musicians, the warm, rich sound of the KSM44 delivers exceptional performance, tailored to deliver vivid reproduction of voice for the most critical recordings. The KSM44 also offers great flexibility in a variety of recording applications, working well on acoustic and amplified instruments, as its capacity for managing high SPLs accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars My favorite mic! The best "all-around" mic., November 14, 2005

By 

Rogue Scout Productions (Southern California) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Shure KSM44 Large Dual-Diaphragm Microphone (Electronics)

This is Shure's flagship studio condenser mic. It is also the most versatile and underrated/overlooked mic on the planet.

This is the best sounding microphone under $1000. You will not find a better mic for around $600. It is built like a tank, has superb frequency responses, is one of the quietest(7db self-noise) I have ever heard, and sounds just as good as those uber-expensive German mics. With the adjustability of patterns and pads, you can use it on anything. Voice, guitars, drums, up-close, overhead, whatever. The sound when matched to a quality tube preamp is amazing.

This mic has delivered everything it promised and more. I have a decent list of clients that are completely blown-away by this obscure powerhouse. Go ahead and read other reviews online. Everyone is impressed and extremely pleased with the Shure KSM44. I am getting a second one and will keep them forever as the first mics I grab out of the locker.

Thank you Shure! How about a tube mic to top this one?