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. Shure Audio Institute. The KMS 105 also has a very high audio quality, making it perfect for professional recordings. 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. For noisier setups, the tighter supercardioid pattern does a good job of rejecting off-axis noise, which reduces feedback and stage bleed. The output of these capsules is manipulated electronically to support two pickup patterns . Now available as a wired microphone, it's available both in champagne silver and charcoal black finishes. I work with a female vocalist who is looking to upgrade her microphone. As mics go, Shures SM series are about as reliable and predictable as it gets, and so we were expecting a similar sound and behaviour from the KSM8. On vocals and speech, although the level changes, you get very similar frequency response from a couple of inches up to about a foot. It can also be a bit more forgiving when it comes to microphone technique. Boston, And crucial for live use, the built-in advanced suspension shock mount offers good insulation from handling noise and rumble. 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. As mics go, Shures SM series are about as reliable and predictable as it gets, and so we were expecting a similar sound and behaviour from the KSM8. The nicely tapered die-cast aluminium body is available in a brushed nickel or black-painted finish, with overall dimensions of 188mm x 48mm. Electro-Voices product range now includes several Variable-D mics although the most iconic and recognisable is undoubtedly the RE20. The higher range gets some gentle boost, resulting in more transparency andhelping to cut through more easily. At first glance it looks just like any other conventional stage vocal mic there's nothing in its styling that signposts the clever technology within. Basic Analog Systems. Shure KSM9 has two modes: cardioid and supercardioid. What is the output level difference between Shures Beta 87A and SM58? 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! But theres one major difference between these two mics. This pattern is fairly forgiving of mic position and technique, whilst capturing detail. The Neumann KMS105 is another live handheld condenser mic. A premium condenser vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail for live performance. After the KSM9 development, I began talking to Shure about an all-new dynamic vocal mic. Shure describe the KSM9 as the first-ever handheld condenser with dual diaphragms and switchable polar patterns. Exceptional consistency across all frequencies, providing more gain before Dual gold layered, low-mass Mylar diaphragm design, Switchable polar patterns (supercardioid and cardioid). The head of the mic is 49 mm (1.9) and it weighs in at about 300g (10.6oz). American Standard Pitch Notation, a true work of evil. However, the KSM9 has this covered. Shures Dualdyne capsule is housed in a brand new aluminium handle, which is similar in shape and size to the KSM9 condenser stage. Sweetwater Sound, 5501 U.S. Hwy 30 W, Fort Wayne, IN 46818 Get Directions | Phone Hours | Store Hours, If you have any questions, please call us at (800) 222-4700. The downside is that the KSM9 seems to pick up everything on stage.. but it doesn't color them, so doing some additive mixing, using the mic bleed as the foundation, works fairly well. https://www.Sweetwater.com/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o. 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. 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. With this taken care of, theres many advantages to using a condenser mic. At 191 mm (7.5), its slightly longer than the Shure SM58. The dent-resistant mesh grille is constructed from a hardened carbon-steel wire and permanently lined with a hydrophobic fabric. 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 . 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. It has a sumptuous rich low end that isnt overpowering, smooth mids, and sparkling fizzy high notes. Sound Forums Network, LLC was co-founded by David Karol and Bennett Prescott to provide and preserve a home for audio professionals around the world. The Shure KSM9 is a fairly standard size and weight for a handheld stage mic. I prefer the KSM9 over the Beta87C. The KSM8 retails for a couple of hundred dollars cheaper than its condenser counterpart, and is aimed at a slightly different consumer bracket. suggested Neumann KMS 105 Sennheiser e 965 Shure KSM8 Shure KSM9HS Shure Beta 87A Shure Beta 58A Shure SM57 Sennheiser e 835-S Sennheiser e835 Sennheiser e 835. 1.93 in. 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. 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). This delivers a more natural response throughout the vocal range, eliminating the need for a strong presence peak. The active and passive diaphragms differ in that the active (top) one has a coil attached.Although the rear diaphragm isnt used as part of the electrical circuit in a fixed-cardioid capsule, it was subsequently discovered that it does play an important role in modifying the capsules proximity effect, which Ill come back to in a moment. Ive heard sales reps say that the KSM8 is better than a lot of condensors out there so presumably Im buying quality with the 8 but still lean towards the 9 since I want to get most out of my live sound.. How ever since my genre is pretty heavy what is your experiance with the feedback rejection on louder stages with the KSM9 VS the quality of the KSM8.. Will the difference in sound quality (depending on EQ + sound guy ofc) by noticable between the 8 and 9? The mic has a dual-diaphragm 19.8mm OD electret condenser capsule, with diaphragms mounted 3.7mm apart. The KSM8 is not necessarily an upgrade. The Neumann KMS 105, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still provides great sound quality. 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. 5 () 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. One big difference is that the Neumann doesnt have a switchable polar pattern its a fixed supercardioid. Handling noise is extremely low and never gave any problems, even when I was deliberately trying to be clumsy! This was the companys first model to use their Variable-D technology, although the concept wasnt patented until 1963. Why you can trust MusicRadar Itmaintains a great accuracy at higher freqs (where other mics err), and even those high-pitched harmonics sound so much natural! It is the successor to the popular KSM8, and it offers several improvements over its predecessor. Giving just enough brightness to put you in line or slightly ahead of the instruments, I find it working . This means that the strength of the sound emitted from the mic is dependent on the force used to push air through the membrane. This makes them very different types of mic, each with their own internal circuitry. The best way I can describe the sound of the KSM9 is that it provides an authentic reproduction of the sound source. This dual-diaphragm cartridge delivers greater consistency across the frequency spectrum as the distance between the microphone and the source changes. 0:00 Intro Just make sure to point it where you want to and it will do the rest. Overall, the KSM8 appears to be a very impressive stage mic, both in terms of its practical sonic benefits, and in its innovative technology and sophisticated engineering. Theyre reliable, and lots of them sound great. Its certainly worth testing them yourself if you can, but for my money the Shure has a slightly brighter, clearer sound through the high mids and top end. It offers a natural, open sound, with a very balanced low-end, beautifully smoothmidrange and brillianthighs. Nevertheless, we dont think this should detract from what is a beautifully made and classy performer from mic giants Shure. Hi Peter 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. Its similar in design to the classic Shure SM58, but with a squarer grille at the head of the microphone. Because more aspects of life and work are mediated through technology, we design multi-channel digital solutions that create seamless user experiences. It is also a great option for those who are looking for a microphone that is durable and easy to use. The KSM8 is Shure's dual diaphragm dynamic, and as such not a condenser. The Shure KSM8 is a dual-diaphragm cardioid dynamic mic designed primarily for vocal performance. I'm somewhat unfamiliar with the Sennheiser line of microphones. Nice to know, that. The Shure engineers originally patented this technology over 50 years ago, and Shure is the only microphone manufacturer to successfully implement it. Leveraging trend, user research, and other data, we turn ambiguity into clarity, define organizing principles, and chart trajectories for product offerings, brands, and businesses. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. Condensers offer a higher output level than dynamic mics, but theyre a lot more sensitive to loud noises, handling noise, and tend to break more easily. On first listen, the two mics have a similarly clear and transparent sound. The KSM8 uses a dual-diaphragm moving coil cartridge with a cardioid pickup pattern. Technical features include two ultrathin diaphragms, a neodymium magnet, a dent-resistant carbon steel grille, a new internal pneumatic shock mount and diaphragm stabilization system, and integrated hydrophobic wind protection. While the KSM9 offered Cardioid and Supercardioid patterns, the KSM9HS offers Hypercardioid and Subcardioid (wide cardioid), selectable via a switch under the grille. Price $699. #Sweetwater #Shure You wont have the super resilience of a dynamic mic. Don't Let Dirty Power Ruin Your Recordings. He said the idea for the KSM8 came out of what Shure had learnt while building the KSM9 handheld condenser: "We knew from the KSM9 that if we could get a second diaphragm into the cartridge, we could use it as part of the acoustic network to control proximity effect. Keep in mind, Heil mic is more sensitive, which is both a pro and a con. This protects the diaphragm and capsule from harm, and reduces handling noise and stage vibrations. There are many great microphones on the market, but two of the most popular are the Neumann KMS 105 and Shure KSM9. But for noisy stage environments, a supercardioid pattern does a better job of rejecting noise from monitors and other instruments. Its unique capsule gives the KSM8 a cardioid polar pattern that is unusually uniform across the frequency spectrum. The Neumann KMS 105 is a great microphone for those who are looking for a high-quality sound. Building on a technology that Shure first introduced in 1966 with the Unidyne III capsules used in SM57s and SM58s, the KSM8s pneumatic shockmount sits below the Dualdyne capsule to decouple it from the microphone body, thereby minimising low-frequency handling noise. Theres nothing quite like knowing your audience are listening to a high quality sound. 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 KSM9 also switches between cardioid and supercardioid polar patterns, so it can easily adapt to different live environments and singing styles. Shure Product Manager, John Born, was one of the small development team that worked on the KSM8 project. Professional vocalists are always repositioning their mics to change the tone and add expression to their performance. Interesting Essay On Sampling Rights and Reforms. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlczpwSXEOyatBLoJPWeG2U8OUFx9AFC0, https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/KSM8Nshure-ksm8-dualdyne-nickel/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o, https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/KSM9CGshure-ksm9-handheld-condenser-microphone-charcoal-gray/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o, https://www.sweetwater.com/shop/general-gear-used-to-make-sweetwater-videos/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o, https://www.Sweetwater.com/?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=kVto8BKab0o. XLR cables are the only cables capable of carrying phantom power to the mic. Unlike with other mics, both patterns of KSM9 work flawlessly. The KSM9 is a two-channel microphone, meaning that it has two diaphragms, which are each made up of a membrane and a coil. It's the industry standard live vocal mic. The KSM8 Dualdyne features a patented cartridge design with two ultra-thin diaphragms and groundbreaking reverse airflow technology. The KSM8 provides greater immunity to these problems, due to linear polar response across the entire frequency spectrum. KSM8/B: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a black finish. This is, of course, complete nonsense: new developments are still appearing quite regularly, bringing substantial improvements in quality and accuracy, reliability or manufacturing costs. Both mics share some internal design features too: they both have the dual diaphragm design, which delivers a nice smooth frequency response. Condenser mics are generally considered as sensitive to handling vibrations; however, in case with KSM9 the difference is tremendous. The KSM9 has a dual-diaphragm design that provides accurate sound reproduction, and it also features a built-in shock mount to reduce noise and vibration. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Shure KSM9 is a professional on-stage condenser mic. What's the problem with your 58? All you need to know about wireless microphones. All rights reserved. Heres how it works. Show details. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlczpwSXEOyatBLoJPWeG2U8OUFx9AFC0 Shop Shure KSM8 Du. Confused about setting up your guitar? Because of this, Shure KSM9 is much easier to use when there are other singers or instruments on the stage. This item: Shure RPW174 KSM8 Dualdyne Wireless Capsule for Shure Transmitters. Here we really missed the added proximity oomph, particularly for the guitar. Most industry standard desks or interfaces are capable of providing phantom power, which is sent through the XLR cable to the microphone. She will be using IEM with this mic. A loud metal band might struggle with the increased sensitivity of a condenser, and a raucous singer might push the limits of the mic. The electronic circuit is maybe complex but it doesnt utilize any vulnerable components (such as triodes, crystal oscillators, etc.) Your email, has been entered to win this giveaway. More videos like Shure KSM8 vs. KSM9 | What's the Difference? This compliance is completely absent in a single-diaphragm cardioid capsule, of course. They call it a three-stage grille or simply triple grille. So, are there any downsides? It is a handheld condenser with a switchable polar pattern between cardioid and supercardioid. The kms105 is super clean, clear . The switchable polar pattern means its versatile, and can easily adapt to your situation. As does the KSM9, the HS employs a dual-diaphragm, prepolarized, 3/4-inch capsule . 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. Shure: KSM8 & KSM9 Microphones. Shure KSM9. But a mic like this isnt perfect for all situations. New Release: EDM Expanse (Construction Kits). The outer grille has been tempered to provide years of dent resistance. . Learn More. 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. Loud rock/metal bands will probably prefer the resilience of a good dynamic mic. I think the champagne looks very chic! We joined PA in 2018, becoming part of one of the world's most capable networks of researchers, strategists, designers, engineers, and scientists. The KSM8 is unique in being a dual-diaphragm, moving-coil stage vocal mic. 530 706 Des. Their ability to reproduce sound so accurately is why they tend to be used in studio recording. Find An Answer Browse our vast Answer database for answers to many common technical questions. However many singers and sound engineers find themselves needing to upgrade to something a bit more hi-fi. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. Exclusive deals, delivered straight to your inbox. Braunmhl-Webers innovative capsule design was patented in 1936, and introduced commercially as the famous M7 capsule employed in all of Neumanns early microphones. From those a reviewed, Heil PR35 would be the closest match in how it sounds while also being studio worthy. 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! This makes it almost identical in size to Shures KSM9 capacitor stage vocal mic. Shure has taken dynamic microphone technology and performance to a groundbreaking new level with the development of the premium KSM8 Dualdyne. 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. The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance, Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa. Sweetwater's Mitch Gallagher joins soulful singer Marcus Scott for a side-by-side shootout of Shure's KSM8 dynamic mic and KSM9 condenser mic. Theyre probably best-known for their affordable handheld dynamic stage microphones. This microphonecan give a colossal improvement to your vocal and it actually deserves every dollar spent. Follow Marcus Scott on social media The balanced response of the dual-diaphragm microphone allows the performer to move more freely without affecting the sound quality. A dynamic microphone revolution that only Shure could stage. 2:11 Shure KSM8 Only Shure KSM9/CG Dual-Pattern Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone. But with solid construction, the mic feels nice and sturdy to hold, without feeling overly large. Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3, Die-cast Aluminum with Paint or Brushed Nickel Finish, Black, Soft Flex Swivel Stand Adapter for KSM8 and KSM9, Black Foam Windscreen for KSM8, SM85, SM86, SM87A, Beta 87A, and Beta 87C, Black Replacement Grille for KSM8 Wired and Wireless, Brushed Nickel Replacement Grille for KSM8 Wired and Wireless. A dynamic cardioid version of the KSM9, using the same dual-diaphragm technology. The Sennheiser also has a slightly larger diaphragm than the Shure. BLX4 and BLX88 systems are throw-it-in-your-backpack wireless mic systems with portable receivers, great for getting around quickly. Singers with quieter voices will find that a live condenser mic can better convey the emotion and intimacy of their performances. It is the successor to the popular KSM8, and it offers several improvements over its predecessor. MaonoCaster E2 (AME2) review - production audio interface for streamers. KSM8/N: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a brushed-nickel finish. 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. Another big difference between the two mics is that the KSM8 has no switchable polar pattern its simply a cardioid mic. I haven't tried the sennheiser but I can tell you my experience with the kms105 and the ksm9(the ksm8 is a dynamic). On the other hand, condenser mics are less sonically limited than dynamics, and can deliver a lot of detail and clarity. The triple grille pop-shield handles plosives well, whereas the dual diaphragm design is very effective at reducing the proximity effect. They both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so its important to choose the right one for your needs. They must maintain this distance in order to avoid variations in tone. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Overall, the KSM8 is excellent for vocals but not quite the allrounder that the SM-series mics are. At the low end, a small amount of proximity effect is apparent if the source is closer than about 25mm (one inch), but between 25-75mm (one to three inches) the response is well balanced and very consistent. The Neumann KMS 105 is a condenser microphone that is designed for studio use. However, the weight of the coil limits how responsive the mic can be, and it tends to struggle to replicate high frequencies and dynamic detail. Strategically positioning and bringing to life new brands. . 965 seriously cuts through the muddiness very crisp high end. MusicRadar is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. However, when the stage gets more aggressive and louder, you will need theimproved rejection and gain before feedback of supercardioid. In effect, the passive diaphragms compliance acts to partially block or impede low frequencies from reaching the rear of the front diaphragm, thus altering the net pressure acting on the active diaphragm in a frequency-dependent way. Big venue or loud stage this mic will definitely cut through the . The sound engineer will normally mute the mic from the mixing desk when needed. With solid internal engineering, it handles noise and feedback well. This means theyre prone to overload and distortion from louder singers. Less spiky in the high mids, which means it sounds a lot better soloed, but doesn't sound as up front with a band. 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. The younger sibling of the KSM9 is the Shure KSM8. The KSM8 has more of a presence peak in the upper mids, whereas the KSM9 feels more transparent throughout the high range. The KSM9 is Shure's premier live vocal mic and with it's dual diaphragms can be switched between Cardioid and Supercardioid polar pattern modes. The lower sensitivity allows Shure KSM9 to focus on the user's voice without picking up any sound from other directions. 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. Its an effect used by radio presenters to give them very deep voices. The KSM9 boasts a wide frequency range from 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz. http://cdn.shure.com/publication/upload/340/pdf_ea_dual_diaphragm_mics.pdf, Win! Brand New. Both mics have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which one to buy. An interesting side-note here is that Ben Bauer, working at Shure in the mid-1930s, developed a broadly similar acoustic labyrinth concept based on Braunmhl-Webers work for a single-capsule moving-coil cardioid mic.