Its a little more sensitive than a dynamic mic like the Shure SM58, but a far cry from the high sensitivity of some studio condensers such as the AKG C414. Follow us. Though many singers and softer styles of music will benefit from the extra detail and clarity of a condenser. Thats a tough one. The only quibble I have is with the price, which at $499 is 5 times the price of the SM58. The Neumann KMS 105, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still provides great sound quality. One of the very latest advances was introduced by American microphone manufacturers Shure at the Winter NAMM show at the start of this year, in the form of the worlds first dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld microphone, the KSM8. There is no doubt in my mind that the Shure KSM8 Dualdyne handheld dynamic is a superior microphone for live vocals. In fact there are only a couple of small (less than 3dB) ripples in the response (around 3 and 5 kHz), with a fairly steep roll-off above 12kHz. Confused about setting up your guitar? Consider helping Sound Forums keep the lights on. If the two passage times are accurately matched, the sound pressure will be identical on both sides of the diaphragm, and there will be no net movement which means no electrical output. These are the vibrations in the sub bass range that youll feel more than hear. XLR cables are the only cables capable of carrying phantom power to the mic. American Standard Pitch Notation, a true work of evil. jim martin death couples massage class san diego beaver falls football shure axient combiner. How vulnerable are these mics to dropping on the stage? The KSM8 uses a dual-diaphragm moving coil cartridge with a cardioid pickup pattern. Neumann are known for producing premium quality microphones, and so its no surprise that the KMS105 gives the Shure KSM9 a run for its money. They both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so its important to choose the right one for your needs. The capsule technology inside the KSM8 has been christened Dualdyne, in keeping with their familiar Unidyne product range terminology and in obvious reference to the use of two diaphragms. This mic is highly dynamic and nuanced, making it the perfect mic for intimate folk, jazz or spoken word performances. SM7b is unique though, so dont expect you can get the exact same performance from another handheld. The KSM8 Dualdyne features a patented cartridge design with two ultra-thin diaphragms and groundbreaking reverse airflow technology. It features a cast aluminium handle, solid construction, and comes in two colours: charcoal or champagne. When you have other instruments in close proximity and you just want the sound of the voice, its best to sing or speak directly into the mic. 965 more sensitive than the KSM, for me uses about 1/3rd less gain. But theres one major difference between these two mics. All rights reserved. The Shure KSM9 is a high-quality condenser microphone that is designed for live performances. The capsule assembly process apparently involves ultrasonic and internal laser welding to help ensure excellent mechanical reliability, and the practical realisation of the Dualdyne capsule took Shures engineers seven years of development and optimisation. Sandusky, MI, United States (26) SHURE KSM9/CG/ Itmaintains a great accuracy at higher freqs (where other mics err), and even those high-pitched harmonics sound so much natural! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlczpwSXEOyatBLoJPWeG2U8OUFx9AFC0 Shop Shure KSM8 Du. In addition to diminishing unwanted movement, the moving piston and internal cavities have been precisely engineered to stabilize the diaphragm amidst mechanical vibration. For more aggressive styles like metal, technically youll still get a betterquality vocal, but among those loud and heavy guitar riff sounds you may probably not be able to notice the difference. He is always eager to try new creative endeavors and uses them as inspiration in her writing. But for the money, youll get a classy, crystal-clear sound with heaps of dynamic detail. The Shure KSM9 is a fairly standard size and weight for a handheld stage mic. It offers a natural, open sound, with a very balanced low-end, beautifully smoothmidrange and brillianthighs. A85WS Black foam windscreen for KSM8, SM58, SM86, SM87A, Beta 87A and Beta 87C A25E Black, Soft-flex Swivel Adapter for KSM8 and KSM9 RPM266 Black replacement grille for KSM8 wired and wireless RPM268 Brushed Nickel replacement grille for KSM8 wired and wireless. At 191 mm (7.5), its slightly longer than the Shure SM58. Mylar is a registered trademark of E.I. The KMS 105 also has a very high audio quality, making it perfect for professional recordings. . Go for the shorter lengths where possible. ksm9 hs surprising on no feedback. The results were always stellar and we use the wireless versions of KSM9 on our singers with James Taylor to this day. It offers a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz and a maximum SPL of 150dB. Cloudflare Ray ID: 7a2dba687d4fa3ab Well, at 429, this mic doesnt come cheap. 5:52 Thanks for Watching! I work for a medium sized provider in the UK, we have 16 channels of UHF-R (a mix of UR4D and UR4D+). KSM9 is a top line mic and I assure you its pretty tough the capsule is well protected, and if dropped, the internal suspension can easily handle the shock. This makes it almost identical in size to Shures KSM9 capacitor stage vocal mic. All in all, the KSM9 offers a very happy medium. With its unique dual-diaphragm design, is Shures latest offering the greatest advance in dynamic mic technology since the Unidyne? In America, Electrovoice took a very different approach in their EV664 microphone launched in 1954. You may use these HTML tags and attributes:
, In this article, you'll learn how to choose professional and budget, Copyright 2015 - 2023 Microphone Geeks LLC, AKG Pro Audio D7 Reference Microphone Review, Sennheiser e965 Review Switchable True Condenser, Shure Super 55 Deluxe supercardioid prop mic review, Sennheiser e845 review budget supercardioid, MaonoCaster E2 (AME2) review production audio interface for streamers, Maono PD400X USB / XLR podcast dynamic microphone review, Pixel Voical Lark X Wireless Lavalier System Review, Azden SGM-1X Short Shotgun Microphone Review. By 1967 Electro-Voice had improved the concept and the RE15 model was the first with Continuously Variable-D technology. 71 user ratings. Interesting Essay On Sampling Rights and Reforms. The Shure KSM8 Dualdyne Microphone is the world's first handheld dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone, designed for professional vocal applications in live sound and studio environments. Brand New. I'm somewhat unfamiliar with the Sennheiser line of microphones. Loud rock/metal bands will probably prefer the resilience of a good dynamic mic. The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance, Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa. It offers a natural, open sound, with a very balanced low-end, beautifully smooth midrange and brilliant highs. For comparison the SM58 only reaches 15kHz. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. It may also be purchased as part of a Shure wireless system, or as an upgrade to an existing wireless handheld transmitter. But with solid construction, the mic feels nice and sturdy to hold, without feeling overly large. Shure KSM8 Shop now at Amazon. The output of these capsules is manipulated electronically to support two pickup patterns . The on-axis pickup pattern is well focused, and although moving substantially off axis results in a dramatic reduction of level, the tonality remains remarkably consistent. So having the benefits of that technology available on stage for the live-sound market is very appealing. Because more aspects of life and work are mediated through technology, we design multi-channel digital solutions that create seamless user experiences. Shure describe this arrangement as a reverse airflow technology, and although the pneumatic shockmount was patented over 50 years ago, they claim that no other manufacturer has implemented it successfully. The kms105 is super clean, clear . Together we are over 500 exceptionally creative and talented specialists working from design studios, research labs, and engineering centers across Europe and the US. Its not something I could actually hear. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. The Shure KSM9 is also a great microphone, also it may be less expensive than the Neumann KMS105. The KSM8 Dualdyne is designed to excel as a vocal microphone while withstanding the punishment of professional live sound reinforcement, but can be used to capture other sources as well. But the Shures smaller dual diaphragm design may give it the edge when it comes to a natural, clear and authentic sound. The Shure engineers originally patented this technology over 50 years ago, and Shure is the only microphone manufacturer to successfully implement it. For noisier setups, the tighter supercardioid pattern does a good job of rejecting off-axis noise, which reduces feedback and stage bleed. This is like having two mics in one, and is a real bonus. Cardioid is more natural but may need a louder vocal to combat feedback. In a directional microphone, sound waves are generally directed towards the rear of the diaphragm through an acoustic labyrinth, which effectively introduces an audio delay. Reimagining beauty tools to make easy, confident makeup application possible for everyone, Creating nutritional intelligence to enable better food buying decisions, Helping to make the worlds best doctors accessible everywhere, Enabling cyclists to react to performance data in real-time and with minimal distraction, Improving operational efficiency in instrumentation, Developing sound-isolating earphones that musicians demand and consumers love, Delivering an extraordinary guest experience, Tower Point, Sound Quality. The Shure KSM9 is a great choice as a live mic. Exclusive deals, delivered straight to your inbox. In the studio, a cardioid mic is probably all you need in a well-isolated vocal booth. To bring in more of the room sound, and the instruments around you, hold the mic 10 cm or more away from your mouth. There were four models in AKGs dual-capsule range, starting with the D200. Another big difference between the two mics is that the KSM8 has no switchable polar pattern its simply a cardioid mic. It is for precisely these reasons that dual-diaphragm capacitor microphones have become the standard choice for recording close-up vocals, users often citing the preferred low-frequency character, and why single-diaphragm cardioid mics are generally preferred for more distant-miking applications. The Neumann KMS105 is another live handheld condenser mic. The KSM9 uses an XLR cable to connect directly to the audio interface or mixer. In combination, these are designed to provide effective plosive and wind protection, as well as keeping breath moisture away from the capsule. . #3. The low frequency behaviour is considerably more forgiving, providing a much bigger sweet spot. To prevent dust and moisture ingress, they decided to cover the back of this labyrinth with a second (passive) diaphragm which would still allow sound waves from the rear to pass into the capsules internal labyrinth. It is the successor to the popular KSM8, and it offers several improvements over its predecessor. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlczpwSXEOyatBLoJPWeG2U8OUFx9AFC0 Shop Shure KSM8 Dualdyne Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone at Sweetwater https://imp.i114863.net/WDLGBnShop Shure KSM9 Dual-Pattern Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone at Sweetwater https://imp.i114863.net/0J3d0LIf youre wondering what video gear we use, check it out https://imp.i114863.net/n1z2DaSweetwaters Mitch Gallagher joins soulful singer Marcus Scott for a side-by-side shootout of Shures KSM8 dynamic mic and KSM9 condenser mic. Both mics share some internal design features too: they both have the dual diaphragm design, which delivers a nice smooth frequency response. In the low range, we see a very gentle roll-off from 500Hz and below, with a sharper curve below 100Hz. Zippered Carrying Case for KSM8. If you want the best quality XLR cables, try these. the Telefunken M80). Click to reveal In practical terms, working the microphone in the normal way exhibits a far more consistent and balanced sound than would be experienced with, say, an SM58, which can go from distinctly boomy to noticeably thin with only the smallest of positional changes. This pattern is fairly forgiving of mic position and technique, whilst capturing detail. The Sennheiser also has a slightly larger diaphragm than the Shure. Dualdyne capsule continues the ongoing evolution of microphone technology. ; chanel The downside is that the KSM9 seems to pick up everything on stage.. FYI there is a new version of the KSM9 that now offers a switchable polar pattern. The switchable polar pattern means its versatile, and can easily adapt to your situation. Shure KSM9 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone. A max SPL of 152db is also a little lower than the SM58, but not drastically different to some of the other pro-level dynamic microphones (e.g. Win a TB-03 and TR-06 from Roland. The switch is under the grille. For quieter, well-controlled stage environments, (or in-ear monitors) the cardioid pattern sounds great. Like most professional microphones, the KSM9 has a low impedance of 150 ohms. Here we really missed the added proximity oomph, particularly for the guitar. Not much help for the marginal types, though. When unwanted off-axis sources leak into vocal microphones, it can degrade phase coherency and compromise source quality. KSM8 in Nickel (G50) KSM8 in Black (G50) KSM9HS (G50) SM87 (G50) SM86 (G50) And don't forget about the optional SB900A rechargeable lithium-ion batteries . If your audio interface or mixer doesnt provide phantom power, there is a solution: You can connect your mic to an external 48 volt phantom supply. This delivers a more natural response throughout the vocal range, eliminating the need for a strong presence peak. https://www.Sweetwater.com/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o. This provides a clean and transparent sound, while generating a little more heat than other designs. Both mics have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which one to buy. This extended high range will give your vocals that extra sparkle and clarity, and a more open authentic sound. In these microphones the front capsule mounted directly behind the grille captures only the high frequency components of the source sound, while a second capsule located behind it receives the low frequency sound components, via a damped acoustical tube from entry ports at the bottom of the microphones handle. And of these, the SM57 and SM58 are industry-standard around the world. Now is the perfect time to get the gear you want with simple, promotional financing. One other thing to note is that theres a very slight difference in the high-end response between the two switchable polar patterns. Finally, dynamic mics are passive meaning they dont require any power. OK, thats a very bold marketing claim, but actually, I dont think theyve over-hyped it. KOHN MUSIC STORE. KSM8/N: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a brushed-nickel finish. AK8C. However, the proximity effect is not the only aspect of the capsules behaviour that is changed by the addition of a rear passive diaphragm. Single vs. Dual-diaphragm frequency response. Web site designed & maintained by PB Associates & SOS. On vocals and speech, although the level changes, you get very similar frequency response from a couple of inches up to about a foot. This makes them very different types of mic, each with their own internal circuitry. Both the SM57 and SM58 are favoured for their workhorse-like reliability and durability. A25E. Condenser mics are more often found in the studio, where they have the ability to capture small dynamic changes and high-frequency detail. Thus, it is like you buy one mic but end up with two, and you can switch themwhenever you want, which is quite very awesome. In other words, the acoustic impedance of the diaphragm increases as the frequency gets lower. Therefore, if you can afford this mic, go ahead and start digging that difference. All you need to know about wireless microphones. I work with a female vocalist who is looking to upgrade her microphone. See giveaway details & rules or check out our past winners! Smooth high frequency response without a pronounced presence peak, Advanced internal pneumatic shock mount and the Diaphragm Stabilization System (DSS patent pending) work together to prevent handling noise, True cardioid pattern prevents feedback and provides consistent off-axis response, Hardened, dent resistant grille lined with hydrophobic woven fabric that rejects moisture as well as plosives for years of high quality use, Microphone techniques for live sound reinforcement. The Neumann KMS 105 is a condenser microphone that has been designed for studio use. Importantly, the mic provides a pretty consistent 5dB of rejection of sources at 90 degrees right across the frequency range, so that whatever off-axis spill is captured remains fundamentally uncoloured. However, the output impedance is slightly higher than usual, at 300, and although this will technically mean a slightly higher noise floor than a mic with, say, a 150 output impedance, given the KSM8s intended application I think such concerns are completely irrelevant. http://cdn.shure.com/publication/upload/340/pdf_ea_dual_diaphragm_mics.pdf, Win! Check out the Shure KSM8 here:https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/KSM8N--shure-ksm8-dualdyne-nickelSubscribe to Sweetwater:https://www.youtube.com/user/S. I think the champagne looks very chic! Good Luck! For information on microphone use and applications or for a more comprehensive look at the technology behind the microphone, visit www.shure.com for educational publications on these topics and more: The KSM8 Dualdyne Cartridge utilizes a reversed side entry airflow system. Every single component is new this is no evolution from previous Unidyne capsules: it came quite literally from a clean sheet of paper and a lot of innovative thinking! Where you hold the microphone in relation to your mouth can make a big difference in sound. 1.93 in. Great care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the preparation of this article but neither Sound On Sound Limited nor the publishers can be held responsible for its contents. Shure KSM9 is a professional on-stage condenser mic. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Your IP: The Neumann KMS 105 and the Shure KSM9 are both great microphones, but the Neumann kms 105 is the better microphone. But for noisy stage environments, a supercardioid pattern does a better job of rejecting noise from monitors and other instruments. The lowest frequencies enter via the farthest entrance port, with mid and high frequencies entering through ports closer to the capsule. It has a sumptuous rich low end that isnt overpowering, smooth mids, and sparkling fizzy high notes. This is, of course, complete nonsense: new developments are still appearing quite regularly, bringing substantial improvements in quality and accuracy, reliability or manufacturing costs. Price $699. . Geeksper.com is the blog site where you can get well-researched microphone reviews, microphone buying guides, and everything related to microphones. to maximise the magnetic field in a very small space and thus ensure an acceptable electrical output level. If the grille becomes damaged or deformed, please contact Shure's Service Department for a replacement. The Shure KSM9 is a higher-end microphone that is known for its clear sound quality. In my opinion, if budget allows, stretch to a KSM9. 1.93 in. This was the companys first model to use their Variable-D technology, although the concept wasnt patented until 1963. Enter the Shure KSM9 a condenser mic for the live stage. I think the Shure is a little brighter in character, whereas the Sennheiser is a bit more pronounced in the low-mids. A premium condenser vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail for live performance. Sound enters the microphone via the side entry inlets and passes through the rear second diaphragm before striking the front diaphragm. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. i recently bought neumann kms105 shure ksm8 and shure ksm 9 hs.. i am very satisfied from all as a better sound choice i choose neumann kms105 but for very very hard and dificult situations i mean bad places bad speaker place very easy to get feedback from mics i choose the ksm 9 hs on hypercardioid The grilles are of course replaceable Yet, considering the price of the unit, youd still want to treat it with all due respect and I hope this is a no-brainer. Human factors engineering ensures that medical devices and combination products are safe, effective, and easy to use, while also ensuring that the products meet commercial and regulatory imperatives. However, the KSM9 has this covered. Given the sensitivities of condenser mics, why would anyone risk using one on stage? The active and passive diaphragms differ in that the active (top) one has a coil attached. At the bottom of the KSM8s capsule is a second passive diaphragm, which is there to seal the rear chamber and its internal acoustic labyrinth. Most studio condenser mics are far more sensitive than dynamic mics, which can cause problems in live performance. Performance & security by Cloudflare. Big venue or loud stage this mic will definitely cut through the . Giving just enough brightnessto put you in line or slightly ahead of the instruments, I find it working great for all types of voices too. It also has a -10db pad which can be switched on if a vocalist needs a little less sensitivity. PR35 has a lot of fans. Instagram: @marcusdscott, After you watch, check out Sweetwater.com today for all your music instrument and pro audio needs! #Sweetwater #Shure But there are some differences. The Shure KSM9 is a high-quality condenser microphone that is designed for live performances. I was hoping to get a few opinions on these microphones. The Neumann KMS 105 is a great choice for studio vocals. Always hold the vocal mic by the main body, and if theres too much sibilance, try holding it slightly to the side. The overall off-axis response is very smooth, and although the pick-up pattern is at the broader end of cardioid, theres pretty good rear rejection, particularly noticeable in the midrange frequencies. In my experience the KSM8 is a more hi-fi-sounding mic. Its an effect used by radio presenters to give them very deep voices. Forums for Audio Professionals, Run by Audio Professionals. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. Its unique capsule gives the KSM8 a cardioid polar pattern that is unusually uniform across the frequency spectrum. . 95A2050 . Why you can trust MusicRadar Features. KSM8. Its most sensitive on-axis (at 0 degrees), but also picks up sound around 65 degrees either side of the mic. Shure Tech Portal open_in_new. If the vocalist presses their lips against the grille there is a small but noticeable increase in the bass end, but it really is very moderate in comparison to most stage mics. Shure KSM9 Cardioid and Supercardioid Condenser Mic. Warning: Turning the cartridge in the shockmount or touching the second diaphragm can result in permanent microphone damage and may result in an undesirable change in frequency response. It also helps to minimise high-frequency handling noise. Feel free to call us toll free at (800)222-4700, Mon-Thu 9-9, Fri 9-8, and Sat 9-7 Eastern. . Shures KSM8 introduces the Braunmhl-Weber dual-diaphragm concept into a moving-coil capsule for the first time, with substantial practical and sonic advantages for the live-sound market. Varying the labyrinth delay time slightly leads to other directional patterns, such as hyper- and super-cardioid, where the null angles are offset either side of the rear axis at 110 degrees and 126 degrees, respectively. . Live sound engineers often use signal processing, like equalization, to mitigate both the proximity effect of traditional microphones or to compensate for improper microphone technique (such as when a performer covers the grille with their hand). It has a 40 to 16000 Hz frequency response, a 300 output impedance, and a sensitivity of -51.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV) at 1 kHz, open circuit. This might also be a good setting for backing vocals, to get more separation between neighbouring singers. A strong presence peak centered around 4 to 5 kHz is used to counteract the increased bass. I own a SM7b and want a mic with similar quality for when I feel like holding the mic and being free. Switchable cardioid and super-cardioid patterns. BLX4 and BLX88 systems are throw-it-in-your-backpack wireless mic systems with portable receivers, great for getting around quickly. KSM8/B: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a black finish. 210.65.88.143 The casing has an integrated three-state pop protection grille, which acts like a pop-shield and reduces plosives, breath and wind noise. The science behind the Braunmhl-Weber capsule is a little complex, but if you want the full story with all the maths, Shure have produced a detailed white paper on the science and practical effects of the dual-diaphragm capsule, which can be found here: http://cdn.shure.com/publication/upload/340/pdf_ea_dual_diaphragm_mics.pdf. She owns a EW 115, perhaps I could just upgrade the capsule? https://imp.i114863.net/b3emR60:00 - Intro1:12 - Shure KSM8 Only1:41 - Shure KSM9 Only2:11 - Shure KSM8 Only2:33 - Shure KSM9 Only2:46 - Shure KSM8 Only3:06 - Shure KSM9 Only3:26 - What We Heard5:52 - Thanks for Watching! Being music makers ourselves, we love geeking out on all things gear. To learn more about our cookie policy, please visit our Privacy Policy. Patent Notice: Patent Des. Available colors: User rating: 71. The unique design of the Shure Dualdyne cartridge provides several benefits over traditional single-diaphragm dynamic microphones: With traditional microphones, low-frequency response increases as the performer moves closer to the microphone. shure ksm8/n; . The Neumann KMS 105 microphone is the choice for professionals who demand excellence in their recordings. Braunmhl-Webers innovative capsule design was patented in 1936, and introduced commercially as the famous M7 capsule employed in all of Neumanns early microphones. So, are there any downsides? After the KSM9 development, I began talking to Shure about an all-new dynamic vocal mic. My contacts at Shure were reticent to consider creating a competing product for the venerable SM58 and the newer Beta 58A. The triple grille pop-shield handles plosives well, whereas the dual diaphragm design is very effective at reducing the proximity effect. Naturally, the latter influences the price greatly, and the KSM8 is consequently the most expensive moving-coil stage mic currently on the market. Sound Magic Blue Grand, 2 Steinway grand pianos collection, Crackling / Popping Noise on XLR Microphone, Roger Linn teaches "Designing Physical Interfaces for Music". However the KSM9 is noticeably cleaner and brighter. mic. The latter also feels more nuanced and detailed in its response. Obviously, handheld dynamic mics are nothing new, and neither are microphones with dual diaphragms: every switchable-pattern capacitor mic has used that particular technology since the mid-1930s! One big difference is that the Neumann doesnt have a switchable polar pattern its a fixed supercardioid. This dual-diaphragm cartridge delivers greater consistency across the frequency spectrum as the distance between the microphone and the source changes. A dynamic microphone revolution that only Shure could stage. Both mics respond exceptionally well to lead vocals, with each having its subtle nuances and flavorings that are sure to deliver the goods in many different applications hear it for yourself! There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Great write up. Q. Essential was founded with a belief and mission to empower people through design. For a more natural, balanced sound, hold the mic between 5 and 10 cm away from your mouth. SHOCKSTOPPER is a trademark of Shure Incorporated in the United States. Unlike with other mics, both patterns of KSM9 work flawlessly. In a switchable-pattern capacitor mic the rear diaphragm is made electrically active, of course, and by changing the electrical biasing of the two capsule halves and combining the electrical outputs from both diaphragms, it is possible to create any desired polar pattern from omni through cardioid and on to figure-of-8.