Shure Product Manager, John Born, was one of the small development team that worked on the KSM8 project. Its priced for pro users, but the KSM8 is a beauty of a mic that ditches the all-rounder status in favour of vocal live performance and reinforcement duties. Unlike with other mics, both patterns of KSM9 work flawlessly. 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. 1:41 Shure KSM9 Only It offers a natural, open sound, with a very balanced low-end, beautifully smooth midrange and brilliant highs. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the publishers. Just make sure to point it where you want to and it will do the rest. Always works in a rock setting. However, the KSM9 has this covered. However, when the stage gets more aggressive and louder, you will need theimproved rejection and gain before feedback of supercardioid. The polar response also behaves differently with both frequency and source distance. With this taken care of, theres many advantages to using a condenser mic. 2:46 Shure KSM8 Only Essential is part of When unwanted off-axis sources leak into vocal microphones, it can degrade phase coherency and compromise source quality. PA Consulting. Q. A strong presence peak centered around 4 to 5 kHz is used to counteract the increased bass. Its unique capsule gives the KSM8 a cardioid polar pattern that is unusually uniform across the frequency spectrum.As polar patterns go the KSM8 boasts a remarkably consistent cardioid response, with an excellent rear null across most of the frequency range, and Shure claim it to be the purest cardioid polar pattern the company have developed to date. But with solid construction, the mic feels nice and sturdy to hold, without feeling overly large. The KSM9 is a two-channel microphone, meaning that it has two diaphragms, which are each made up of a membrane and a coil. With its unique dual-diaphragm design, is Shures latest offering the greatest advance in dynamic mic technology since the Unidyne? . Its one of those things that comes down to personal taste. The idea is that sounds from the rear take the same amount of time to reach the rear of the diaphragm through the labyrinth as they do to pass around the outside of the microphone and impact on the front of the diaphragm. The Shure KSM9 is a fairly standard size and weight for a handheld stage mic. With two ultra-thin diaphragms and groundbreaking reverse airflow technology, the KSM8 Dualdyne delivers unmatched control of proximity effect, presence peaks, and bleed and requires minimal EQ and processing. DUAL DIAPHRAGM TECH. One of the standout features of this mic is its versatility it can be used for both vocals and instruments. Where you hold the microphone in relation to your mouth can make a big difference in sound. Large diaphragm mics tend to be better at capturing low-end, whereas smaller diaphragm microphones do a better job with higher frequencies and transient detail. A very similar mic to the KSM9. . Taken all together, these attributes should combine to make the KSM8 a joy to work with on stage, minimising the need for aggressive EQ or dynamic manipulation. Despite being a condenser, the design is well adapted to gigging. The contents of this article are subject to worldwide copyright protection and reproduction in whole or part, whether mechanical or electronic, is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the Publishers. As a premium vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail to deliver clear articulation, functional flexibility and precise vocal reproduction for . 95A2050 . A Sweetwater Sales Engineer will get back to you shortly. Its a departure from their simply constructed dynamic live mics. 531 171. SHURE KSM9/CGShure118800! Its most sensitive on-axis (at 0 degrees), but also picks up sound around 65 degrees either side of the mic. A premium condenser vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail for live performance. Click to reveal The sound engineer will normally mute the mic from the mixing desk when needed. By achieving greater output level while minimizing proximity effect to an unmatched degree, the microphone provides a clean, richly detailed signal with minimal feedback. Follow us. 25 Feb/23. How careful do you have to be in handling? Given the absence, until now, of dual-diaphragm technology in moving-coil mics, it wont surprise anyone to learn that constructing such a design is extremely difficult, not least because of the need to squeeze the magnetic assembly between the two diaphragms, the spacing of which is restricted by the requirements of the internal acoustic structure. 3:06 Shure KSM9 Only This model is renowned and remains a favorite choice of many musicians. MaonoCaster E2 (AME2) review - production audio interface for streamers. The Neumann KMS 105, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still provides great sound quality. Itmaintains a great accuracy at higher freqs (where other mics err), and even those high-pitched harmonics sound so much natural! A perfect choice for precise, intimate live vocals. Giving just enough brightness to put you in line or slightly ahead of the instruments, I find it working . This helps to achievean extremely fast transient responseand make the sound more vivid. KSM8. Most studio condenser mics are far more sensitive than dynamic mics, which can cause problems in live performance. In Europe, call 49-7262-92490. Then - and rather predictably - we had to try the mic on a snare drum and guitar cab (both of which can be successfully enhanced with a regular SM mic). There is a widespread popular belief that the microphone is a mature technology that hasnt seen any significant development since the studio heydays of the 1950s/60s/70s (delete according to your favourite musical decade!). This will add more bass to the sound, due to the proximity effect. She will be using IEM with this mic. In simple terms, the direct result of that frequency-dependent behaviour is an almost complete removal of the mics proximity effect, as well as a better-controlled polar pattern, giving improved off-axis rejection and reduced off-axis coloration, too. This translates to greatly reduced level and tonality changes and less need to compress or EQ the mic in the FOH mixer, even if the users mic technique is less than perfect! Theyre reliable, and lots of them sound great. One other thing to note is that theres a very slight difference in the high-end response between the two switchable polar patterns. All in all the KSM9 has a durable, carefully considered design. It is also nice to admit the technological advancements implemented in this unit. Together we are over 500 exceptionally creative and talented specialists working from design studios, research labs, and engineering centers across Europe and the US. In isolation, the KSM8s sound character is very obviously far more natural and tonally balanced than either the Beta 58 or SM87A, and it is much, much easier to maintain a consistent sound quality and level when using the mic handheld. The KSM9HS is a new premium stage vocal microphone, based on the design and success of the KSM9. After the KSM9 development, I began talking to Shure about an all-new dynamic vocal mic. Shure KSM9 has two modes: cardioid and supercardioid. A cardioid polar pattern shouldnt pick up any sound from the rear of the microphone. However, if you imagine a noisy gig environment, you can see how you might run into problems with feedback and monitor bleed. For comparison the SM58 only reaches 15kHz. I work with a female vocalist who is looking to upgrade her microphone. Popular comparisons. By using the second diaphragm in the resistance network low frequencies are partially blocked from entering the cartridge resulting in a natural, low-end response with controlled proximity effect and no loss in clarity. The casing has an integrated three-state pop protection grille, which acts like a pop-shield and reduces plosives, breath and wind noise. Shure Tech Portal open_in_new. This compliance is completely absent in a single-diaphragm cardioid capsule, of course. Shure KSM9 has a fantastic quality and it gives a very natural sound. See giveaway details & rules or check out our past winners! Engineering products to address all technical and business criteria and solve the most difficult design problems through integrated mechanical, electrical, software and firmware solutions. None. In essence, this system guides sound of different frequencies to the rear of the capsule through three or four separate entry ports spaced along the length of the mic body, each incorporating frequency-selective damping. The KSM8 is a dynamic microphone; the KSM9 is a condenser microphone. On first listen, the two mics have a similarly clear and transparent sound. This mic has a very flat and even range through the mids, before gently climbing through the high range from about 3kHz. 71 user ratings. The Shure KSM9 can switch between two different polar patterns: cardioid and super-cardioid. The KSM8 really is impressive for a dynamic mic. 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. $621.00. As expected from professional equipment, youll get that superior quality and low noise levels. . 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. This is to stop little bursts of air causing bassy pops on your studio recordings. 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. Overall it is a mid-flat mic with low-end roll off around 110Hz, and rather than a single 5-10 dB presence peak around 8 . Shure KSM9 is a professional on-stage condenser mic. So having the benefits of that technology available on stage for the live-sound market is very appealing. 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. Its an effect used by radio presenters to give them very deep voices. Learn More. This is, of course, complete nonsense: new developments are still appearing quite regularly, bringing substantial improvements in quality and accuracy, reliability or manufacturing costs. The results were always stellar and we use the wireless versions of KSM9 on our singers with James Taylor to this day. As well as the microphone, the KSM9 also comes with: Dynamic mics are extremely durable, and can withstand a certain amount of rough and tumble. The dual-diaphragm microphone delivers a smoother response throughout the vocal range and is less susceptible to improper microphone handling, requiring less corrective signal processing and resulting in a more natural sound. Show details. Read Also >>USB VS 3.5mm MicrophoneUHF vs VHF wireless microphone systemsRode NTK vs. K2 MicrophoneNeewer NW 700 vs. Neewer NW 800Sennheiser e935 vs e945 Microphone Comparison. The KSM8 uses a dual-diaphragm moving coil cartridge with a cardioid pickup pattern. In my experience the KSM8 is a more hi-fi-sounding mic. Their ability to reproduce sound so accurately is why they tend to be used in studio recording. In the studio, a cardioid mic is probably all you need in a well-isolated vocal booth. 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. 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! This mic is highly dynamic and nuanced, making it the perfect mic for intimate folk, jazz or spoken word performances. 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. But aside from the minimal handling noise, this really is a different experience. Both patterns arestandard and both can be as useful in different situations. Jan 28, 2013. Through a multi-disciplinary partnership from research to development, Essential partnered with Shure to help establish user experience principles and a design language for their wireless and wired microphone . Exclusive deals, delivered straight to your inbox. It is a handheld condenser with a switchable polar pattern between cardioid and supercardioid. Second, nonetheless very important feature is a unique grille design that does an impressive job in reducing popping sounds. Both mics share some internal design features too: they both have the dual diaphragm design, which delivers a nice smooth frequency response. The standard voltage for phantom power is 48 V DC. This mic has all the detail and nuance that youd expect from a studio condenser. Patent Notice: Patent Des. FR curves are similar (KSM9 has less proximity effect; KMS105 a bit smoother HF bump) and both seem to allow a good singer to sound, well, good. On vocals and speech, although the level changes, you get very similar frequency response from a couple of inches up to about a foot. They even look similar, with tapered handles and squareish divided metal grilles. Overview. 965 more sensitive than the KSM, for me uses about 1/3rd less gain. Additionally, the KSM9 has a built-in shock mount that helps to reduce noise from vibration, making it ideal for use with high-end instruments. Condenser mics are a great choice for stage use as long as they have been designed specifically for live use. Your IP: . 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. 5 stars: 28 %: 4 stars: One distinctive advantage of Shure KSM9 is that it is quite less sensitive than Neumann KMS 105. OK, thats a very bold marketing claim, but actually, I dont think theyve over-hyped it. AKG C414 The Ultimate Comparison: XLS vs XLII vs B-ULS vs EB, Re: The Behringer Keyboards 'n' Stuff Thread #3, Re: Mic Question M300 vs MKH 8040 or alternative. Keep in mind, Heil mic is more sensitive, which is both a pro and a con. It features a cast aluminium handle, solid construction, and comes in two colours: charcoal or champagne. The Shure KSM8 is a dual-diaphragm cardioid dynamic mic designed primarily for vocal performance. 5:52 Thanks for Watching! Great site. The KSM8 grille is lined with a permanently-attached hydrophobic cloth. More videos like Shure KSM8 vs. KSM9 | Whats the Difference? Unusually for a stage vocal mic, the response is largely flat between 100Hz and 10kHz and the substantial presence peak found in most stage vocal mics is absent in the KSM8. Taking its inspiration from Shures classic Unidyne III capsule (thats the one used in the SM57, SM58 and others), this newly developed capsule aims to reduce the proximity effect, improve off-axis frequency response and rejection, and deliver a more consistent polar pattern. . 1.93 in. 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 . Many singers love its ribbon-like feel, and although it may turn out beneficial for screaming or growling with a metal band, in your case, for a clean vocal you may need a brighter mic, so that it can cut through a dense mix more easily, such as KSM9, which also offers supercardioid mode for improved rejection, as long as you fix it on a stand and dont move around much. There is no doubt in my mind that the Shure KSM8 Dualdyne handheld dynamic is a superior microphone for live vocals. Polar Pattern Frequency Response 500 Hz 250 Hz 1,000 Hz 6,400 Hz 9,000 Hz 2,500 . But a supercardioid pattern would be better when recording a full band in a single room. 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. It has a warm sound that is perfect for female vocals or mellow tracks.