REVIEWED
SHURE KSM42 & Studio Condenser Mics
KSM44
Shure is maybe best known for its legendary SM58 and SM57 dynamic microphones but these two new additions to the KSM studio condenser range feel like a tempting addition to any studio setting...
Words: D.P. Wilson
Anyone who has ever taken to the stage and used a microphone will have undoubtedly come across the Shure brand. With more than their fair share of industry standard
KSM42 & KSM44 KSM 42
SHURE KSM 44 ACT
£774.33 £881.48
All prices include VAT CONT
Shuer Distribution T:
W:
01992 703058
www.shure.co.uk
46 3pickup
mics Shure is probably most well known for the SM57 and SM58, both rugged dynamic microphones which have been seen in abundance on stages and in studios across the world for many decades. Maybe because of the success of these microphones and despite having capable studio mics in its range, I think it’s probably fair to say, in Europe at least, that Shure is not so well known for its studio condenser range; something that the mic giant is looking to redress with these new additions to the KSM studio range. Both microphones look very similar in construction with the colour being the only immediate clue setting them apart. The KSM44 comes in a classic satin silver/chrome design whereas the KSM42 looks even sexier in a
satin dark silver colour. The only other aspect to set the mics apart upon closer inspection is the switches on the KSM44 (more of which later). Both microphones arrive in the now obligatory aluminium style flight case that offers solid protection for your investment, although even with a modest collection of mics these cases will soon mount up! Both mics also come with decent quality shockmounts with spare bands and whilst the KSM44 package also contains a rigid mount the KSM42 outfit is completed by a magnetic stick on pop shield. Excellent! Both microphones require 48 volt phantom power, although they are both capable of running on substantially less juice with reduced headroom in the preamp if necessary.
KSM42 Now, when it comes to looking at microphones from the same family, the geek in me normally reaches straight for the more exciting, multi-pattern bells and whistles model. However, the relatively simple cardioid only KSM42 also promises some new ideas. The KSM42 seems from the outset designed to be an out-and-out vocal mic, featuring a single cardioid pickup pattern and no switches for level padding or low frequency roll-off. I was initially concerned about this; cardioid mics occasionally suffer from what is known as the ‘Proximity Effect’, which is an increase in the lower frequencies when used with very close-up vocals. Many condenser mics employ a low frequency roll-off
Shure KSM42
Shure KSM44
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