Shure Unveils KSM44 Studio Microphone

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Ideally suited for vocal recording, Shure's new KSM44 microphone will make its industry debut at this year's AES. Designed to meet the needs of professional recording studios, project studios, musicians, and recording engineers, the multi-pattern KSM44 condenser microphone features externally biased large dual diaphragms in a side-address design. This latest addition to Shure’s KSM studio microphone line offers multiple polar patterns (omni, cardioid, and bidirectional), thereby providing great versatility in a wide variety of recording applications.

With an extended frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz, the KSM44 contains Class A, transformerless preamplifier circuitry which virtually eliminates crossover distortion and brings improved linearity across its entire operating range. Its dual one-inch, gold-layered, Mylar diaphragms provide added low frequency response, while improving environmental stability. In addition, the diaphragms’ extra-thin (2.5 micrometers) design accurately reproduces any sound source, while achieving an extremely low self-noise of 7dB.

"The KSM44 is Shure’s top of the line studio microphone, designed from the ground up to perform with the best condenser microphones in the world," states Shure Vice President of Marketing Steve Johnson. "We’re very excited to introduce this mic at AES, demonstrating Shure’s ongoing commitment to providing the optimal tools for today’s recording environment." While the KSM44's frequency response is tailored for the vivid reproduction of vocals, its capacity for managing high SPLs accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers, as well. Unwanted mechanical noise can be held in check with the use of a three-position low frequency filter function, which is also useful for controlling proximity effect. As a further safeguard, an internal shock mount stems stand-related noise.

An elegant champagne-colored finish graces the exterior of the KSM44's durable zinc die-cast housing. To protect the microphone from accidental damage and misuse, a hardened low-carbon steel grille shields its dual capsules. Accessories provided with each mic include a locking aluminum carrying case, a color-matched ShureLock (TM) elastic-suspension shock mount, a swivel mount, and a protective Velveteen pouch.

The KSM44 can be seen and heard at AES in booth #711 and will be available from Shure dealers in October. The KSM44 carries a suggested retail price of US$1340.00.

For more information, visit their web site at www.shure.com.