Shure Debuts Four New Recording Microphones and XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter

Jan 27, 2009

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Shure Incorporated today extended the Company's legacy of world class live performance and studio recording microphones into the digital realm with the debut of three new products — the PG27USB and PG42USB Side-Address Condenser Microphones and the X2U XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter. In addition, Shure introduced XLR models of the new microphones, the PG27 and PG42.

"Over the past several years, more and more musicians, both professional and amateur, have taken recording into their own hands at home, on the road, in their bedroom, basement, tour bus…wherever," said Chad Wiggins, Category Manager, Wired Microphones. "With these new products, we're bringing the legendary heritage of Shure microphones to every level of performer and home recording artist as the proliferation of digital recording continues."

The PG27USB and PG42USB microphones connect professional-caliber Shure microphones to any USB computer port with "Plug and Play" performance. The cardioid condenser microphones feature built-in headphone monitoring with zero latency and monitor mix control, enabling users to instantly hear what they're recording through headphones and make adjustments on-the-go, which makes them excellent tools for multi-track recording. Both microphones are durable enough for everyday use and practice, but sophisticated enough for advanced recording by the most discerning artists.

"Now anyone can connect a Shure microphone to their computer to create their music," said Scott Sullivan, Senior Director of Product Marketing and Development. "We realized that musicians who create digital recordings are looking for three things — superior equipment to translate their sound; the ability to hear themselves… monitoring;and the ability to accurately adjust their monitor mix. We're delivering all of this with our new USB microphones and the X2U adapter."

The PG27 and PG42 are XLR counterparts to the USB models. The key difference between the PG27, PG27USB, PG42, and PG42USB microphones is the application for which they were designed:

• The PG27 and PG27USB feature a flat, neutral frequency response for natural reproduction of a wide variety of instrument and vocal sound sources.
• The PG42 and PG42USB were specifically engineered to reproduce the subtle nuances of lead vocals. The large diaphragm allows for higher sensitivity to clearly reproduce refined performances. The low-cut filter and external shock-mount further optimize performance for vocals.

Other unique features include:

• Large diaphragm capsule: Provides wider dynamic range, clear highs, and strong lows.
• USB "Plug and Play" Connectivity for the PG27USB and PG 42USB: Enables convenient digital recording, anywhere your computer goes.
• Integrated pre-amp with Microphone Gain Control: Allows precise control of input signal level to prevent overload of the analog-to-digital converter.
• Zero Latency Monitoring: For real-time playback and multi-tracking without disorientation.
• Headphone Jack: For monitoring with 1/8" connectivity.
• Monitor Mix Control: For blending microphone and playback audio.

X2U XLR-to-USB Signal Adapter
The Shure X2U Adapter is a modular accessory that connects any XLR microphone to a computer to create better-than-CD quality recordings. As home recording flourishes, the X2U redefines what amateur musicians and podcasters can do in their homes and on the go. The X2U mimics the sleek, beautiful design of Shure's iconic SM57 and SM58® microphones and can be used unobtrusively for live and in-studio recording. The X2U's unique features include:

• USB "Plug and Play" Connectivity: Enables the convenience of digital recording, anywhere your computer can go (compatible with Windows Vista, XP, 2000, and Mac OS X 10.1 or above).
• Integrated pre-amp with Microphone Gain Control: Allows precise control of input signal level to prevent overload of the analog-to-digital converter.
• Zero Latency Monitoring: Enables real-time playback and facilitates multi-tracking without disorientation.
• Headphone Jack: For monitoring with standard 1/8" connectivity.
• Monitor Mix Control: For blending microphone and playback audio.
• 48-volt Phantom Power: For compatibility with all condenser microphones.

Pricing and Availability

• X2U Adapter: $129.00 retail [$154.00 MSRP]
• PG27USB: $199.00 retail [$238.00 MSRP]
• PG42USB: $249.00 retail [$298.00 MSRP]

The PG27, PG27USB, PG42, and PG42USB Side Address Condenser Microphones and X2U Signal Adapter will be available in spring 2009 and will carry a two-year limited warranty. The products can be purchased at select retail partners and the X2U will also be available at www.shure.com.