Shure KSM8B Dualdyne Vocal Microphone
ABOUT Shure
Shure is a renowned American audio electronics company that specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-quality microphones, headphones, earphones, wireless systems, and other audio equipment. The company was founded in 1925 by Sidney N. Shure and is headquartered in Niles, Illinois.
Shure has established itself as a leading brand in the professional audio industry and is highly regarded for its superior sound quality, durability, and reliability. Its products are widely used by professionals in various fields, including music production, broadcasting, live sound reinforcement, recording studios, and corporate settings.
General Description
The Shure KSM8 Dualdyne™ Microphone is the world’s first handheld dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone, designed for professional vocal applications in live sound and studio environments. Shure has taken dynamic microphone technology and performance to a groundbreaking new level with the development of the premium KSM8 Dualdyne. By achieving a greater output level while minimizing the proximity effect to an unmatched degree, the microphone provides a clean, richly detailed signal with minimal feedback. 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.
Model Variations
The KSM8 microphone is available in a black or brushed nickel finish. It may also be purchased as part of a Shure wireless system, or as an upgrade to an existing wireless handheld transmitter.
KSM8/B: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a black finish.
KSM8/N: Superior dual-diaphragm dynamic microphone with a brushed-nickel finish.
Care and Maintenance
Features
This dual-diaphragm cartridge delivers greater consistency across the frequency spectrum as the distance between the microphone and the source changes. This revolutionary technology provides the following benefits:
- Reduced proximity effect
- Clean, natural low end
- Smooth high-frequency response without a pronounced presence peak • Increased working distance
Premium Components
The KSM8 delivers exceptional results and withstands the rigors of daily use in the most demanding live sound environments.
- Advanced internal pneumatic shock mount and the Diaphragm Stabilization System (DSSâ„¢ patent pending) work together to prevent handling noise
- True cardioid pattern prevents feedback and provides consistent off-axis response
- Hardened, dent-resistant grille lined with hydrophobic woven fabric that rejects moisture as well as plosives for years of high-quality use
Care and Maintenance
The KSM8 grille is lined with a permanently attached hydrophobic cloth. The user should not attempt to remove or replace this lining. The exterior of the grille can be cleaned by gently using warm soap and water with a soft toothbrush. If the grille becomes damaged or deformed, please contact Shure’s Service Department for a replacement.
Warning: Turning the cartridge in the shock mount or touching the second diaphragm can result in permanent microphone damage and may result in an undesirable change in frequency response. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Applications
The KSM8 Dualdyne is designed to excel as a vocal microphone while withstanding the punishment of professional live sound reinforcement but can be used to capture other sources as well. For information on microphone use and applications or a more comprehensive look at the technology behind the microphone, visit www.shure.com for educational publications on these topics and more:
- Microphone techniques for live sound reinforcement
- Microphone techniques for recording
- Proximity effect
The Shure Dualdyneâ„¢ Cartridge
The KSM8 Dualdyneâ„¢ Cartridge utilizes a reversed side entry airflow system. Sound enters the microphone via the side entry inlets and passes through the rear second diaphragm before striking the front diaphragm. By using the second diaphragm in the resistance network low frequencies are partially blocked from entering the cartridge resulting in a natural, low-end response with a controlled proximity effect and no loss in clarity.
Dualdyne cartridge side view
- Front Diaphragm
- Magnet
- Rear Diaphragm
- Cavity 2
- Sound Channels
- Cavity 1
- Side Entry Sound Inlet
Reduced Proximity Effect
With traditional microphones, low-frequency response increases as the performer moves closer to the microphone. A strong presence peak centered around 4 to 5 kHz is used to counteract the increased bass. The dual-diaphragm microphone greatly reduces the proximity effect, and low-frequency response remains consistent with distance. This delivers a more natural response throughout the vocal range, eliminating the need for a strong presence peak.
Dualdyneâ„¢ Benefits
The unique design of the Shure Dualdyneâ„¢ cartridge provides several benefits over traditional single-diaphragm dynamic microphones:
Increased Working Distance
Traditional microphones confine the performer to a specific distance from the microphone. They must maintain this distance to avoid variations in tone. The balanced response of the dual-diaphragm microphone allows the performer to move more freely without affecting the sound quality.
Less Signal Processing Required
Live sound engineers often use signal processing, like equalization, to mitigate both the proximity effect of traditional microphones and to compensate for improper microphone technique (such as when a performer covers the grille with their hand). The dual-diaphragm microphone delivers a smoother response throughout the vocal range and is less susceptible to improper microphone handling, requiring less corrective signal processing and resulting in a more natural sound.
Exceptional Off-axis Linearity
When unwanted off-axis sources leak into vocal microphones, it can degrade phase coherency and compromise source quality. The KSM8 provides greater immunity to these problems, due to linear polar response across the entire frequency spectrum.
Design and Construction
The mechanical design of the KSM8 offers advancements that benefit the performance and aesthetics of the microphone.
Advanced Pneumatic Shockmount Technology
The Diaphragm Stabilization System (DSSâ„¢) works with the pumping pneumatic shock mount to isolate and suspend the cartridge, reducing handling noise. In addition to diminishing unwanted movement, the moving piston and internal cavities have been precisely engineered to stabilize the diaphragm amidst mechanical vibration. The Shure engineers originally patented this technology over 50 years ago, and Shure is the only microphone manufacturer to successfully implement it.
Innovative Hardened Grille Design
The outer grille has been tempered to provide years of dent resistance. The grille interior is lined with a hydrophobic woven fabric. This moisture-resistant cloth protects the cartridge while providing superior pop protection, ensuring years of usability and durability.
Accessories
- Furnished Accessories
- Optional Accessories
- Replacement Parts
Certifications
This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking.
Declaration of Conformity
The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance
Authorized European representative:
- Shure Europe GmbH Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa
- Department: EMEA Approval Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12 75031 Eppingen, Germany
- Phone: 49-7262-92 49 0
- Fax: 49-7262-92 49 11 4
- Email: info@shure.de
Specifications
- Type
Dual Diaphragm Dynamic (moving coil) - Frequency Response
40 to 16,000 Hz - Polar Pattern
Cardioid - Output Impedance
300 Ω - Sensitivity
at 1 kHz, open circuit voltage
-51.5 dBV/Pa[1] (1.85 mV) - Polarity
Positive pressure on the diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 concerning pin 3 - Net Weight
330 g (11.64oz.) - Connector
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male - Housing
Die-cast Aluminum with Paint or Brushed Nickel
Finish
[1] 1 Pa=94Â dB SPL
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
Dimensions
FAQS About Shure KSM8B Dualdyne Vocal Microphone
Do I need phantom power for my Shure KSM8?
Phantom The process of providing DC (Direct Current) to microphones that need electricity to power active circuitry is referred to as “power.” All condenser microphones have active circuitry and need phantom power, including the Shure KSM line.
What is the KSM8’s frequency response?
The response is very flat between 100Hz and 10kHz for a stage vocal mic.
Where is the Shure KSM8 produced?
Mexico
What happens if phantom power is applied to a microphone that doesn’t require it?
Leaving your phantom power on won’t do any harm. The majority of dynamic or condenser mics won’t accept it if they don’t need phantom power.
What makes phantom power so evocative?
Using the same connection that carries the audio stream, it transmits power.
Describe dualdyne.
The KSM8 Dualdyne is the first dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld microphone in the world and the most important development in microphone technology since the Unidyne in 1939.
What is a sensor’s frequency response?
The capacity of a measurement device to precisely reflect dynamic pressure changes is known as frequency responsiveness.
KSM8—is it a condenser?
High-end voice condenser microphone having polar patterns that may be switched between hypercardioid and subcardioid. Vocal microphones have a detailed sound because of their supercardioid polar patterns and customized frequency responses.
What kind of microphones require phantom power?
Phantom power is necessary for condenser microphone operation.
Phantom power has what voltage?
12-48 volts
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