recordinghacks

OmnidirectionalCardioidBidirectionalShure KSM44

MSRP: $1,394 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

Shure KSM44

Description

The KSM44 is a multipattern, dual large-diaphragm condenser microphone with extremely low self-noise (7dB).

The capsule employs two 1-inch, externally biased, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass, Mylar diaphragms. The FET preamp uses Class A, discrete, transformerless circuitry designed for transparency and extremely fast transient response without crossover distortion. Internal and external connectors are gold plated.

As on the KSM27, a subsonic filter eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 Hz. A 3-stage pop/blast filter reduces breath and wind noise. An internal shock mount reduces handling noise. In addition, a 15dB pad switch is available on the mic body, as well as a 3-position high pass filter:

  • flat
  • -18dB per octave at 80Hz (Low frequency “cutoff”)
  • -6dB per octave at 115Hz (Low frequency “rolloff”)

The mic body is die-cast zinc. The grille is hardened low-carbon steel. The protective pouch is velvteen. (It’s smooth. It’s silky. You just want to keep touching it!)

The KSM44 ships with a mic clip, spider-style shockmount, aforementioned velveteen pouch, and an aluminum carrying case.

How is the KSM-44 different from the KSM-27?

The KSM27 is smaller (but heavier) than the KSM44, but the two mics offer similar features, such as the -15dB pad and the 3-way HPF. The primary difference is that the KSM27 has a fixed cardioid pickup pattern, whereas the KSM44 has a dual-diaphragm capsule and offers 3 pickup patterns (omni, bidirectional, and cardioid).

The KSM44 has superior pop protection1 and a less hyped response above 4000Hz.

MIX

The KSM44 has a very solid low end with a much “drier and cleaner” sound than [the KSM27 or KSM32].

SoundOnSound

Because of its bass extension, the KSM44 makes its mark by performing particularly well with bass instruments.

The Shure KSM44 is also known as: KSM-44, KSM44/SL.

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
  • Omnidirectional (20 - 20,000 HZ)
  • Cardioid (20 - 20,000 HZ)
  • Bidirectional (20 - 20,000 HZ)
  • Pad: -0 dB (Via Switch)
  • Pad: -15 dB (Via Switch)
  • Filter: flat (Via Switch)
  • Filter: -6 dB @ 115 Hz (Via Switch)
  • Filter: -18 dB @ 80 Hz (Via Switch)
Diaphragm size Impedance Max SPL
25mm (0.98'') 150 Ohms (Low (50-1000 Ohms)) 150 dB
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
491g (17.32oz) 187mm (7.36'') 56mm (2.20'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Requires Phantom Power
  • Phantom voltage: 48v

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