Shure KSM44/SL Studio Microphone

Studio Condenser Microphone, Multiple Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional

Great flexibility in a variety of recording applications.

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 cartridge from accidental drops or misuse
Uniform polar response provides natural off-axis response for critical recording
Integrated three-stage pop protection grille to guard against wind and breath noise
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

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

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.