Consistent with legendary Shure microphone innovation, the KSM9 is the first handheld condenser with dual diaphragms and variable polar patterns. As a premium vocal microphone, the KSM9 captures vocal subtlety with extraordinary detail to deliver clear articulation, functional flexibility and precise vocal reproduction for live performance. Transformerless, Class A preamplifier circuitry and dual, gold-layered diaphragms capture a transparent sound, revealing every nuance and subtlety in a vocal performance. The KSM9 uses an advanced suspension shock mount to virtually eliminate handling noise even in the most demanding live environments.
The KSM9 series consists of two models featuring unique, switchable polar patterns and a variety of finishes.
KSM9HS: Features hypercardioid and subcardioid polar patterns with a black finish.
KSM9: Features cardioid and supercardioid polar patterns with a charcoal-gray or champagne finish.
The KSM9 is designed to capture and control the detailed sonic nuances of critical studio performance, while withstanding the punishment of professional live sound reinforcement. The frequency response of the two patterns are nearly identical, allowing performers to easily adapt to any venue.
The cardioid pick-up pattern is ideal in live performances for musicians with in-ear monitors, providing a warm, full sound. This setting provides excellent gain before feedback, with minimal off-axis coloration.
The supercardioid pick-up pattern provides maximum sound isolation and is ideal for applications in which there are high levels of ambient noise, or where multiple instruments or vocalists are close together.
Directional microphones progressively boost bass frequencies as the microphone is placed closer to the source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. However, it usually requires the vocalist to maintain a consistent distance from the microphone in order to avoid changing the low-frequency response.
The dual-diaphragm design of the KSM9 helps to control and minimize proximity effect, resulting in a more uniform low-frequency response. This allows the performer to move closer or further from the microphone with minimal changes in sound quality.
Cardioid: Captures sound directly in front of the microphone and has the greatest rejection 180 degrees toward the rear. A cardioid pattern has a wider coverage angle, resulting in increased off-axis pickup. This is the most common pattern in studio recording and live-sound applications.
Supercardioid: Captures sound directly in front of the microphone and has the greatest sound rejection at points 120 degrees toward the rear of the microphone. A supercardioid pattern has a narrower coverage angle of 115 degrees, resulting in increased off-axis rejection. This pattern is ideal for loud environments or applications when sound sources are very close together.
This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 V DC supply (IEC-61938), but it can operate with supplies as low as 11 V DC. Most modern mixers provide phantom power and require the use of a balanced microphone cable: XLR-to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS.
Maximum SPL capability, output clipping level, and dynamic range vary with the input load impedance of the preamplifier to which the microphone is connected. Shure recommends a minimum input load impedance of 1000 Ohms. Most modern microphone preamplifiers meet this requirement. Higher impedance results in better performance for these specifications.
The microphone grille consists of 3 separate mesh layers that act as an integral pop filter. This helps reduce wind and breath noise. Depending on the performer, an external pop-protection screen or windscreen may be necessary when close-miking vocalists.
Electret Condenser
Cardioid, Supercardioid (selectable)
50 to 20,000 Hz
150 Ω
open circuit voltage, @ 1 kHz, typical
−51 dBV/Pa[1] (2.8 mV)
1 kHz at 1% THD[2]
| 2500 Ω load | 1000 Ω load |
|---|---|
| 152 dB SPL | 152 dB SPL |
72 dB
@ 1 kHz
| 2500 Ω load | 1000 Ω load |
|---|---|
| 130 dB | 130 dB |
20 Hz to 20 kHz, 1% THD
| 2500 Ω load | 1000 Ω load |
|---|---|
| 6.7 dBV | 6 dBV |
equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical
22 dB SPL-A
10 to 100,000 Hz
≥60 dB
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
11 to 52 V DC[4]phantom power (IEC-61938) 5.2 mA, maximum
300 g (10.6 oz.)
[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL
[2]THD of microphone preamplifier when applied input signal level is equivalent to cartridge output at specified SPL
[3]S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self noise, A-weighted
[4]All specifications measured with a 48 Vdc phantom power supply. The microphone operates at lower voltages, but with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity.
| Carrying Case | AK9C |
| Microphone Clip | A25E |
| Foam Windscreen | A85WS |
| Grille, Champagne | RPM260 |
| Grille, Charcoal | RPM262 |
| KSM9 Cartridge | RPM160 |
| Switch Circuit Board Assembly | RPM462 |
| Preamp Circuit Board Assembly | RPM460 |
Note: Testing is based on the use of supplied and recommended cable types. The use of other than shielded (screened) cable types may degrade EMC performance.
This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking.
The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from Shure Incorporated or any of its European representatives. For contact information please visit www.shure.com
The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance
Authorized European representative:
Shure Europe GmbH
Global Compliance
Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12
75031 Eppingen, Germany
Phone: +49-7262-92 49 0
Email: info@shure.de
www.shure.com
Trademark Notices: The circular S logo, the stylized Shure logo, and the word, “Shure” are registered trademarks of Shure Incorporated in the United States. “SHOCKSTOPPER” is a trademark of Shure Incorporated in the United States. “Mylar” is a registered trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company in the United States. These marks may be registered in other jurisdictions.
Patent Notice: Patent Des. 530 706 Des. 531 171
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