Loud rock/metal bands will probably prefer the resilience of a good dynamic mic. This makes it almost identical in size to Shures KSM9 capacitor stage vocal mic. I think the Shure is a little brighter in character, whereas the Sennheiser is a bit more pronounced in the low-mids. XLR are the standard connectors on all professional studio equipment. Why you can trust MusicRadar The KSM8 is a dynamic microphone; the KSM9 is a condenser microphone. The Shure KSM8 is a dual-diaphragm cardioid dynamic mic designed primarily for vocal performance. Every KSM9 I've seen has been switchable between cardioid and supercardioid. Both patterns arestandard and both can be as useful in different situations. After the KSM9 development, I began talking to Shure about an all-new dynamic vocal mic. 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. This will add more bass to the sound, due to the proximity effect. SM7b is unique though, so dont expect you can get the exact same performance from another handheld. Jan 28, 2013. It is intended for vocal use. This makes them very different types of mic, each with their own internal circuitry. An internal shock mount offers the kind of durability youd expect from a live mic. They must maintain this distance in order to avoid variations in tone. The contents of this article are subject to worldwide copyright protection and reproduction in whole or part, whether mechanical or electronic, is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the Publishers. In contrast, the dual-diaphragm capsule achieves a superior cardioid polar response and on-axis frequency response for close (nearfield) sources. As a premium vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail to deliver clear articulation, functional flexibility and precise vocal reproduction for . If your audio interface or mixer doesnt provide phantom power, there is a solution: You can connect your mic to an external 48 volt phantom supply. Geeksper.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. (source: Section 5), Specification of Neumann KMS 105 Microphone, Neumann KMS 105 MT Condenser Microphone, Super-Cardiod,Matte Black, Sennheiser e935 vs e945 Microphone Comparison, Telefunken M80 Review: Features, Pros, And Cons, MXL 990 Review: Microphone Features, Performance, Pros & Cons, Top 5 Best Microphone for Recorder in 2023, The Best Microphones and Headphones for Online Gaming, Highly detailed condenser mic for demanding on stage applications, Robust metal housing reduces handling noise, Includes stand mount and padded nylon bag. It is for precisely these reasons that dual-diaphragm capacitor microphones have become the standard choice for recording close-up vocals, users often citing the preferred low-frequency character, and why single-diaphragm cardioid mics are generally preferred for more distant-miking applications. Interesting Essay On Sampling Rights and Reforms. KSM9 picks up too much stage wash. AE5400, KSM9, VX10, and PR22 do as well. Having used them both extensively with flat EQ no compression and no effects here is my 2cents on these mics. Singers with quieter voices will find that a live condenser mic can better convey the emotion and intimacy of their performances. Shure has taken dynamic microphone technology and performance to a groundbreaking new level with the development of the premium KSM8 Dualdyne. The grilles are of course replaceable Yet, considering the price of the unit, youd still want to treat it with all due respect and I hope this is a no-brainer. . However, the output impedance is slightly higher than usual, at 300, and although this will technically mean a slightly higher noise floor than a mic with, say, a 150 output impedance, given the KSM8s intended application I think such concerns are completely irrelevant. Professional vocalists are always repositioning their mics to change the tone and add expression to their performance. However, even so it is still significantly less expensive than many high-end capacitor stage mics, while it boasts some very useful and unique sonic and pragmatic advantages. Shure KSM9 Shop now at Amazon. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. All rights reserved. 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 chart is fairly even, with no big peaks or troughs apart from a little dip around 7kHz. With its unique dual-diaphragm design, is Shures latest offering the greatest advance in dynamic mic technology since the Unidyne? Its worth noting that the E965 is a bit cheaper than the KSM9. Rig Tour: Post Malone's FOH Engineer, Burton Ishmael, Happy 303 Day! Enter the KSM9, a new handheld condenser microphone developed for high end live sound usage. Dynamic mics are particularly suited to live and stage use. This model is renowned and remains a favorite choice of many musicians. Overall it is a mid-flat mic with low-end roll off around 110Hz, and rather than a single 5-10 dB presence peak around 8 . Zippered Carrying Case for KSM8. The new technology allows for cleaner, more natural, and more prevalent vocals, especially when on stage with other instruments. It also helps to minimise high-frequency handling noise. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. While this is by no means a scientific comparison, you can get a crude glimpse at frequency response differences between the SM58 and KSM8 here, with a simple 'AH' sung at a fundamental around 400Hz. The KSM9 microphone typically runs around $700 in a wired configuration. Both mics respond exceptionally well to lead vocals, with each having its subtle nuances and flavorings that are sure to deliver the goods in many different applications hear it for yourself!Follow Marcus Scott on social media Instagram: @marcusdscottAfter you watch, check out Sweetwater.com today for all your music instrument and pro audio needs! Shures Dualdyne capsule is housed in a brand new aluminium handle, which is similar in shape and size to the KSM9 condenser stage. Shure can be proud of their achievements in creating the Dualdyne capsule, and of advancing microphone technology in such a practically valuable way. 95A2050 . The Shure KSM9 is a well-known professional audio microphone, and the Neumann KMS 105 is a popular choice for home recording enthusiasts. 1.93 in. Both mics share some internal design features too: they both have the dual diaphragm design, which delivers a nice smooth frequency response. Its one of those things that comes down to personal taste. Features. Great site. Did you mean the KSM9? More videos like Shure KSM8 vs. KSM9 | What's the Difference? In other words, the acoustic impedance of the diaphragm increases as the frequency gets lower. BACK. Polar Pattern Frequency Response 500 Hz 250 Hz 1,000 Hz 6,400 Hz 9,000 Hz 2,500 . As a premium mic, the KSM9 is certainly pricey. Web site designed & maintained by PB Associates & SOS. Theyre both handheld condenser mics optimised for live performance. Not much help for the marginal types, though. The KSM8 is unique in being a dual-diaphragm, moving-coil stage vocal mic. Most studio condenser mics are far more sensitive than dynamic mics, which can cause problems in live performance. The KSM8 mic is supplied in high-quality rigid protective case with zip closure, and comes with a soft-flex stand adaptor clip and 5/8-inch thread adaptor. Its not something I could actually hear. 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 KSM9 is a premium vocal condenser microphone that captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail to deliver clear articulation, functional flexibility, and precise vocal reproduction for live performance. And of these, the SM57 and SM58 are industry-standard around the world. The Shure KSM8 is a dual-diaphragm cardioid dynamic mic designed primarily for vocal performance. The mechanical design of the KSM8 offers advancements that benefit the performance and aesthetics of the microphone. Giving just enough brightnessto put you in line or slightly ahead of the instruments, I find it working great for all types of voices too. Achieving the sound quality demanded by elite performers and venues no longer requires sacrificing the rugged reliability of a dynamic microphone. This pattern is fairly forgiving of mic position and technique, whilst capturing detail. And although the smooth midrange suited the guitar cab, on snare drum we really missed the boost in brightness that an SM57 brings. mic. In my experience the KSM8 is a more hi-fi-sounding mic. This makes it ideal for recording vocals or instruments in a studio setting. It can also be a bit more forgiving when it comes to microphone technique. In addition to diminishing unwanted movement, the moving piston and internal cavities have been precisely engineered to stabilize the diaphragm amidst mechanical vibration. Virtual elimination of proximity effect allows a much larger working range, which translates into a far more consistent sound regardless of mic technique (or its absence!). This is a small, low voltage current sent to the microphone from a microphone preamp, mixing desk, or audio interface. My contacts at Shure were reticent to consider creating a competing product for the venerable SM58 and the newer Beta 58A. Perhaps the closest competitor to the Shure KSM9 is the Sennheiser E965. The exterior of the grille can be cleaned by gently using warm soap and water with a soft toothbrush. to maximise the magnetic field in a very small space and thus ensure an acceptable electrical output level. Side spill doesnt suffer excessive coloration, and the amount of rearward rejection is impressive and unusually clean. I think its fair to say, condenser mics are generally most at home in the recording studio. Now is the perfect time to get the gear you want with simple, promotional financing. Shure KSM8 vs Shure KSM9. Braunmhl-Webers innovative capsule design was patented in 1936, and introduced commercially as the famous M7 capsule employed in all of Neumanns early microphones. 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). The KSM8 really is impressive for a dynamic mic. 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. 965 more sensitive than the KSM, for me uses about 1/3rd less gain. We develop services as multi-channel brand experiences that empower people in meaningful ways and deliver value for both the user and company. The KSM9 boasts a wide frequency range from 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Mic stands reduce any handling noise in the studio. The Shure engineers originally patented this technology over 50 years ago, and Shure is the only microphone manufacturer to successfully implement it. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. However the KSM9 is noticeably cleaner and brighter. Condenser mics are a great choice for stage use as long as they have been designed specifically for live use. The unique feature of KSM9 is a switchable pattern (cardioid vs. supercardioid), which gives greaterflexibility for any situation or environment. Just make sure to point it where you want to and it will do the rest. The Neumann KMS 105, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still provides great sound quality. PR35 has a lot of fans. It also has a -10db pad which can be switched on if a vocalist needs a little less sensitivity. Most industry standard desks or interfaces are capable of providing phantom power, which is sent through the XLR cable to the microphone. We joined PA in 2018, becoming part of one of the world's most capable networks of researchers, strategists, designers, engineers, and scientists. In my opinion, if budget allows, stretch to a KSM9. . It is the successor to the popular KSM8, and it offers several improvements over its predecessor. Shure KSM9 has a fantastic quality and it gives a very natural sound. One distinctive advantage of Shure KSM9 is that it is quite less sensitive than Neumann KMS 105. 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. . It is also nice to admit the technological advancements implemented in this unit. But the Shures smaller dual diaphragm design may give it the edge when it comes to a natural, clear and authentic sound. Condensers offer a brighter, more detailed sound, which is more faithful to the human voice. The KSM8 mic is supplied in high-quality rigid protective case with zip closure, and comes with a 'soft-flex' stand adaptor clip and 5/8-inch thread adaptor. Thats a tough one. The Neumann KMS 105 and the Shure KSM9 are both great microphones, but the Neumann kms 105 is the better microphone. I was hoping to get a few opinions on these microphones. Both the SM57 and SM58 are favoured for their workhorse-like reliability and durability. To learn more about our cookie policy, please visit our Privacy Policy. 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 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. Overview. Therell be less of the proximity effect, and the mic will pick up more sounds from other instruments, and the acoustics of the room. The KSM8 has more of a presence peak in the upper mids, whereas the KSM9 feels more transparent throughout the high range. A cardioid polar pattern picks up sound in a heart shape around the front of the microphone. This is wider than most handheld dynamic mics, and is one of the main perks of using a condenser mic. The Neumann kms 105 is a popular choice among drummers due to its great sound and durability. Win a TB-03 and TR-06 from Roland. On the other hand, condenser mics are less sonically limited than dynamics, and can deliver a lot of detail and clarity. As expected from professional equipment, youll get that superior quality and low noise levels. The cardioid capacitor microphone was conceived in 1935 by Dr Hans Joachim von Braunmhl and Dr Walter Weber, both working for the Reichsrundfunk Gesellschaft (RRG Electroacoustic Laboratories) in Germany during the early 1930s. No one has been able to do that before now, and Shure proudly describe it as The most significant dynamic microphone technology advancement the industry has seen in more than 50 years.. However, the proximity effect is not the only aspect of the capsules behaviour that is changed by the addition of a rear passive diaphragm. 531 171. If you could choose for worship music between Shure KSM9, Neumann KMS 105 or Sennheiser E965, what do you prefer? With state-of-the-art manufacturing from superior components, each KSM8 Dualdyne is meticulously crafted and tested to uphold the quality standards of world-class Shure construction even in the most demanding live environments. Comparing to other Shures, itis a great step up from their Beta 87A and miles ahead ofBeta 58A. Leveraging trend, user research, and other data, we turn ambiguity into clarity, define organizing principles, and chart trajectories for product offerings, brands, and businesses. Here we really missed the added proximity oomph, particularly for the guitar. The Neumann KMS 105 is a great microphone for those who are looking for a high-quality sound. Like most professional microphones, the KSM9 has a low impedance of 150 ohms. At a similar price, therere many comparisons to be made between the 105 and the KSM9. Its a little more sensitive than a dynamic mic like the Shure SM58, but a far cry from the high sensitivity of some studio condensers such as the AKG C414. It has a very clear sound with a lot of detail, making it perfect for recording vocals. The Shure KSM9 runs best at this voltage, but can perform at voltages as low as 11 V DC. However many singers and sound engineers find themselves needing to upgrade to something a bit more hi-fi. Elegantly crafted products that are simple, useful, and desirable. shure ksm8/n; . With seven years of R&D costs to recover and some very advanced engineering, this mic is inevitably expensive in comparison to conventional moving-coil stage mics. A built in high pass filter on the KMS105 ensures the mic doesnt suffer too much from the proximity effect, although Id say the KSM9 is slightly better at feedback rejection. It has a sumptuous rich low end that isnt overpowering, smooth mids, and sparkling fizzy high notes. In the event of some tragedy befalling the mic, replacement grilles and complete capsules are available, if required, so the KSM8 should endure the rigours of touring live sound over a very long life. Taken all together, these attributes should combine to make the KSM8 a joy to work with on stage, minimising the need for aggressive EQ or dynamic manipulation. Its a departure from their simply constructed dynamic live mics. Go for the shorter lengths where possible. Learn More. Black, Soft Flex Swivel Stand Adapter for KSM8 and KSM9. Feel free to call us toll free at (800)222-4700, Mon-Thu 9-9, Fri 9-8, and Sat 9-7 Eastern. Confused about setting up your guitar? Where the magic happens! Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, It has a 40 to 16000 Hz frequency response, a 300 output impedance, and a sensitivity of -51.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV) at 1 kHz, open circuit. Together we are over 500 exceptionally creative and talented specialists working from design studios, research labs, and engineering centers across Europe and the US. As low as $62/mo. The Neumann KMS 105 is a condenser microphone that has been designed for studio use. Thus, it is like you buy one mic but end up with two, and you can switch themwhenever you want, which is quite very awesome. The KSM8 has many unique design quirks to reduce plosives and the proximity effect, and enable a smooth natural sound. Finally, dynamic mics are passive meaning they dont require any power. Taking its inspiration from Shures classic Unidyne III capsule (thats the one used in the SM57, SM58 and others), this newly developed capsule aims to reduce the proximity effect, improve off-axis frequency response and rejection, and deliver a more consistent polar pattern. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. The switch is under the grille. On stage, the wider cardioid pattern is more suited to singers who move around the mic a bit more. But as condensers are more sensitive than dynamic mics, they may not be the best choice for everyone. Overall, the KSM8 is excellent for vocals but not quite the allrounder that the SM-series mics are. This translates to greatly reduced level and tonality changes and less need to compress or EQ the mic in the FOH mixer, even if the users mic technique is less than perfect! The younger sibling of the KSM9 is the Shure KSM8. 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. Now available as a wired microphone, it's available both in champagne silver and charcoal black finishes. They even look similar, with tapered handles and squareish divided metal grilles. With this taken care of, theres many advantages to using a condenser mic. 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. Sound Quality. Both mics respond exceptionally well to lead vocals, with each having its subtle nuances and flavorings that are sure to deliver the goods in many different applications hear it for yourself! If you want your live vocals to be closer to your refined studio sound, then this is where a good handheld condenser comes in. Importantly, the mic provides a pretty consistent 5dB of rejection of sources at 90 degrees right across the frequency range, so that whatever off-axis spill is captured remains fundamentally uncoloured. Basic Analog Systems. If you experiment you may find you prefer the sound of one over the other, though the differences are quite small. 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. Occasionally we even see some completely new microphone technologies, with yet more hovering tantalisingly over the horizon. Essential was founded with a belief and mission to empower people through design. In these microphones the front capsule mounted directly behind the grille captures only the high frequency components of the source sound, while a second capsule located behind it receives the low frequency sound components, via a damped acoustical tube from entry ports at the bottom of the microphones handle. Their design used a complex arrangement of perforations drilled into separate brass plates which, when sandwiched together to form the microphone backplate, created an acoustic labyrinth behind the front diaphragm. Called the Diaphragm Stabilisation System, or DSS, this smart technology protects the active diaphragm, preventing excessive excursions or rocking motions during plosives or physical knocks. As does the KSM9, the HS employs a dual-diaphragm, prepolarized, 3/4-inch capsule . Performance & security by Cloudflare. We are excited to continue our mission and build the next dynamic design and innovation team that can envision, shape and create new growth platforms for the ambitious. The Shure KSM9 could be the best choice for someone who wants excellent sound but cannot afford a Neumann kms 105. 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. The amount of rear rejection degrades slightly around 6-8 kHz, but not enough to cause any significant issues. Because of this, Shure KSM9 is much easier to use when there are other singers or instruments on the stage. Theres no on/off switch on the KSM9 or any of the Shure KSM range. What is the output level difference between Shures Beta 87A and SM58? There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. Show details. The balanced response of the dual-diaphragm microphone allows the performer to move more freely without affecting the sound quality. Despite being a condenser, the design is well adapted to gigging. The KSM9 also switches between cardioid and supercardioid polar patterns, so it can easily adapt to different live environments and singing styles. The KSM9 is slightly more expensive but offers better sound quality and features such as a detachable cable. This mic is highly dynamic and nuanced, making it the perfect mic for intimate folk, jazz or spoken word performances. For quieter, well-controlled stage environments, (or in-ear monitors) the cardioid pattern sounds great. In Asia, call 852-2893-4290. Another big difference between the two mics is that the KSM8 has no switchable polar pattern its simply a cardioid mic. Their ability to reproduce sound so accurately is why they tend to be used in studio recording. Between the KsM9 and the E935 which would be better for handheld studio rap/vocals? The science behind the Braunmhl-Weber capsule is a little complex, but if you want the full story with all the maths, Shure have produced a detailed white paper on the science and practical effects of the dual-diaphragm capsule, which can be found here: http://cdn.shure.com/publication/upload/340/pdf_ea_dual_diaphragm_mics.pdf. Ultimately they often sound better. With a decent sound system, the KSM9 is startlingly clear and detailed. It is made from high-quality components, which ensures that it delivers excellent sound quality. and if so what are your opinions. Shure KSM9. The casing has an integrated three-state pop protection grille, which acts like a pop-shield and reduces plosives, breath and wind noise. Unlike with other mics, both patterns of KSM9 work flawlessly. Heres how it works. 530 706 Des. 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. This mic has a very flat and even range through the mids, before gently climbing through the high range from about 3kHz. Beta 87A on UHF-R Wireless. 5 stars: 28 %: 4 stars: Last but not least is an interchangeable polar pattern. 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 . And lets hope youre not positioned next to the drum kit! The BLX88 is the two-channel version of the BLX4. Handling noise is extremely low and never gave any problems, even when I was deliberately trying to be clumsy! Shure KSM9 vs Sennheiser E965 for Vocals. So far, so conventional except that the active diaphragm is also stabilised by a series of (patent-pending) sound-diffracting plates positioned directly above it. This means that the strength of the sound emitted from the mic is dependent on the force used to push air through the membrane. Obviously, handheld dynamic mics are nothing new, and neither are microphones with dual diaphragms: every switchable-pattern capacitor mic has used that particular technology since the mid-1930s! I haven't tried the sennheiser but I can tell you my experience with the kms105 and the ksm9(the ksm8 is a dynamic). 3.7 out of 5. The Neumann KMS 105 is a condenser microphone that is designed for studio use. A strong presence peak centered around 4 to 5 kHz is used to counteract the increased bass. 5 () Engineering products to address all technical and business criteria and solve the most difficult design problems through integrated mechanical, electrical, software and firmware solutions. This is also a good position for any sudden loud notes, or to shape, and tail off a long note. As well as the microphone, the KSM9 also comes with: Dynamic mics are extremely durable, and can withstand a certain amount of rough and tumble. SHURE KSM9/CGShure118800! Happy customers, one piece of gear at a time! Cardioid is more natural but may need a louder vocal to combat feedback. Try a good quality boom stand, with a tripod base like the K&M 210/2. For example, AKG developed their D200 range of two-way or dual-capsule microphones in the late 1960s. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.