Shure KSM44A Multi-pattern Large Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Shure KSM44A Multi-pattern Large Dual-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone, KSM44A/SL, Shockmounted

If you only need one studio mic, this is it. Shure's top-of-the-line large-diaphragm condenser delivers endless flexibility with a switchable polar pattern.

Overview

The Shure 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.

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, 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
- Durable zinc die-cast housing and hardened low carbon steel grille to protect cartridge from accidental drops
- Uniform polar response provides natural off-axis response for critical recording
- Integrated three-stage pop protection grille to guard against wind and… read more breath noise
- Internal shock mount to reduce unwanted handling and stand noise
- 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

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.

Shure KSM44 Common 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, voiceover
- 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 -- guitar amplifier or drums

Both the acoustic environment and microphone placement have significant effects on the sound obtained when miking any sound source. Shure encourage users to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound.

What's in the Box?

- 1 KSM44A Microphone
- 1 A44AM ShureLock Stand Mount
- 1 AK44C Zippered Carrying Case
- 1 A44ASM ShureLock Elastic Shock Mount
- 1 RK383 Suspension Shock Mount Elastic Cord, Cristal (contains two)
- 1 A44AVB Protective Velveteen Pouch

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.p65Warnings.ca.gov.

Specs

Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
KSM44A/SL: Shipping Weight: 7 lbs; Shipping Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 7 in; Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): KSM44A/SL
Blemished, KSM44A/SL: Shipping Weight: 7 lbs; Shipping Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 7 in; Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): KSM44A/SL
Warehouse Resealed, KSM44A/SL: Shipping Weight: 7 lbs; Shipping Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 7 in; Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): KSM44A/SL

Documents and Manuals

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 800-516-2525
Email: service@shure.com

Manual

Reviews

(3 ratings)

Submitted March 2, 2013 by Roland Ciuoderis in Santa Clarita, CA

"KSM 44a Honest yet flattering"

Overall:

(see rating details)

Many of Shure's products have become industry/studio standards throughout the years because they just work, and work well. Their mics seem to " get the job done", without frills. Their products remind me of a 'military grade', constructed to be functional and to last . I've read somewhere that they actually do test and torture their products way beyond other manufacturers. I have no affiliation with the company. This is an honest review.I recently purchased the KSM44a and am in the process of selling my AKG c214, which I bought on a whim. I have owned about 10 different mid-range mics..most I consider good, but over time ended up tiring of them, and selling them. I mainly used them for vocals as well as acoustic guitar. This Mic is heavy and seems built like a tank.The best subjective way I can describe the sound of the KSM44a (in cardiod) is somewhat of a slight color. Of the 3 polar patterns, the cardiod is the hottest (+6db), and the brightest. The upper-mids are accentuated, giving the vocalist a very present 'up-front' sound; a mid-lift without any harsh high end. I have become allergic over the years to mics with any kind of harshness to them. The sound of this mic is very pleasing to my ears..more than any other mic I have owned.. Unlike many other mid-priced mics I owned (the ksm44a happens higher priced, but you can get good deals on them) that seem to try to shape the sound to be appealing; this one seems to give you back what you put into it, but in a more mid-forward… read more and flattering way. This is not a 'WOW' mic, but more of an 'A-HA' mic…gives me back what I've imagined I am supposed to sound like, only slightly better. Put another way, although this mic can be used as a home studio mic, it seems its main purpose is as a STUDIO mic. You'll know the difference if you have used many other mics. The other polar patterns add to the functionality as they have different frequency responses (and are not as 'hot' as the cardiod mode)'.To summarize there is NO one mic that fits everyone/everything, but this is a very, very good honest mic that seems especially well tailored for vocals. I give it 5 stars and I ain't sellin' this one. Shure really did their homework.

Musical Background:
have been playing mic for 35 years

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