Overview:

The KSM44/SL is a multiple pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional), externally biased, dual large diaphragm condenser microphone with extremely low self-noise (7dB). Developed to meet the needs of studio recording musicians, the warm, rich sound of the KSM44 delivers exceptional performance, tailored to deliver vivid reproduction of voice for the most critical recordings.The KSM44 also offers great flexibility in a variety of recording applications, working well on acoustic and amplified instruments, as its capacity for managing high SPLs accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers.

Features

• Dual 1 in., externally biased, ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass, Mylar diaphragms provide superior transient response
• Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response and no crossover distortion. Minimizes harmonic and intermodulation distortions.
• Full-range frequency response (20 Hz - 20 KHz) for an extremely accurate reproduction of voice and instruments.
• Extremely low self noise (7 dBA) for critical studio vocal recording.
• Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors.
• Subsonic filter eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 Hz.
• 15 dB attenuation switch for handling high input SPL sound sources.
• 3-position switchable low-frequency filter virtually eliminates unwanted background noise and controls proximity effect.
• Durable zinc die-cast housing and hardened low carbon steel grille to protect the cartridge from accidental drops or misuse.
• Uniform polar response provides natural off-axis response for critical recording.
• An integrated 3-stage pop protection grille to guard against wind and breath noise.
• An internal shock mount to reduce unwanted handling and stand noise.

Performance Characteristics

• Extended frequency response
• Very low self-noise
• Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
• High output level
• High input SPL capability
• No cross-over distortion
• Extremely uniform polar response
• Superior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interference

What's in the Box?

• Color-matched ShureLock(TM) elastic-suspension shock mount
• ShureLock(TM) swivel mount
• Protective velveteen pouch
• Locking aluminum carrying case

Applications

The KSM44/SL is designed as a premium vocal microphone for studio recording. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. Here is a non-exhaustive list of common applications:

• Vocals: solo, background, voice-over
• Acoustic instruments : such as piano, guitar, drums, percussion, strings
• Wind instruments: brass and woodwind
• Low frequency instruments: such as double bass, electric bass, kick drum
• Overhead miking: drums or percussion
• Ensembles: choral or orchestral
• Room ambiance pick-up: guitar amplifier or drums

Of course, both the acoustic environment and microphone placement have significant effects on the sound obtained when miking any sound source. We encourage users to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound.

Specifications:

• Cartridge Type.........................Externally biased condenser
• Frequency Response............... 20 to 20,000 Hz
• Output Impedance..................... 150 ohms (actual)
• Attenuation Switch.......................... 0 or 15 dB attenuation
• Low Frequency Response Switch: Flat; -6 dB/octave below 115 Hz; -18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
• Phantom Power.....................48 Vdc +/- 4 Vdc (IEC-268-15/DIN 45 596), positive pins 2 and 3
• Current Drain............................5.4 mA typical at 48 Vdc
• Common Mode Rejection................. >/= 50dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Polarity.................................. Positive pressure on front diaphragm produces positive voltage on output pin 2 relative to pin 3
• Dimensions and Weight:..........55.9 mm (2.20 in.) maximum body diameter, 187 mm (7.37 in.) long; 490.5 g (17.30 oz.)
• Directional Polar Patterns..................... Cardioid/Omnidirectional/Bidirectional
• Sensitivity (typical; at 1000 Hz; 1 Pa =94dBSPL)........... --31 dBV/Pa / --37 dBV/Pa / --36 dBV/Pa
• Self-noise (typical, equivalent SPL; A-weighted (IEC 651)): 7 dB/10 dB/10 dB
• Maximum SPL* 2500 ohms load (Attenuator on): 132 (149) dB/138 (151) dB/137 (150) dB
• 1000 ohms load: 127 (144) dB/132 (145) dB/131 (144) dB

Output Clipping Level*

• 2500 ohms load: 7 dBV/7 dBV/7 dBV
• 1000 ohms load: 1 dBV/1 dBV/1 dBV

Dynamic Range

• 2500 ohms load: 125 dB/128 dB/127 dB
• 1000 ohms load: 120 dB/122 dB/121 dB
• Signal to Noise ratio: 87 dB/84 dB/84 dB