At the 2016 Winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, Shure unveiled the KSM8 Dualdyne Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone.
The KSM8 is the world’s first dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld microphone for revolutionary vocal reproduction and accurate sound-reinforcement and control. The KSM8 extends the company’s wired microphone line, which includes numerous products of significance and enduring legacy such as the Unidyne 55 and the SM58 Microphone.
Designed for live sound performances where vocal clarity and sound quality are absolutely critical, the KSM8 not only meets the most discerning quality and reliability standards, it also has the versatility to adapt to changing environments without impacting performance. The KSM8 will revolutionise dynamic microphones in the live sound industry by providing sound engineers with a dynamic microphone that has virtually no proximity effect, a mastery of off-axis rejection and an output accuracy that requires none of the presence peaks or roll-offs that are typical of other dynamic microphones.
“It’s a hit!” stated Chris Pollard, FOH Engineer for Mumford & Sons. “Marcus really enjoyed the KSM8 on his first gig with it last night at Rock in Roma. As did I. Really clean, flat response, smooth HF and the reduction in spill is quite amazing! He’d like to change the mic out mid tour, Marcus also commented on how good the mic looked, and wanted to use it immediately.”
Meticulously crafted for exceptional vocal reproduction and sound-reinforcement control for world-class live performance in professional venues, the KSM8 features the purest cardioid polar pattern that Shure has developed to-date, providing the most consistent on-axis performance regardless of the performer’s microphone technique.
“Being part of the dynamic microphone resurgence has been extremely exciting for me, because our customers were always asking us what’s next in dynamic microphones,” said Scott Sullivan, Senior Director of Global Product Management at Shure. “When it comes to microphone technology and development, Shure has, what I consider to be, the ‘secret formula’. In my opinion, no other company, through our exceptional engineering department, could have achieved what we did with the KSM8.”
“In order to make the Dualdyne concept a reality, we had to reinvent the way we make dynamic microphones,” added John Born, Shure Product Manager. “We knew the only way to bring the concept to life was to set all pre-existing parts and template designs aside and start from scratch. Since then, we’ve put over seven years of engineering and development into creating something we knew the industry needed, but had never seen. As a result, the introduction of the KSM8 brings an entirely new dynamic microphone element to the world.”
The ability to virtually eliminate proximity effect and master off-axis rejection is powered by the patented Dualdyne cartridge of the KSM8, which features two ultra-thin diaphragms – one active and one passive – and a groundbreaking inverted airflow system.
As is the case with all Shure products, the world-class design and durability of the KSM8 is present in every aspect of the microphone. A dent-resistant, hardened carbon-steel grille design lined with hydrophobic woven fabric provides exceptional plosive and wind protection, while offering virtually waterproof protection. The aluminium handle – which is available in a brushed nickel or black finish – completes the KSM8’s clean and sophisticated design aesthetic that is a seamless addition to any stage.
The black-finished KSM8 is also available as handheld transmitter option for use with Axient, UHF-R, ULX-D and QLX-D wireless systems. For ULX-D and UHF-R, KSM8 transmitters are additionally offered in a brushed nickel finish. Wireless capsules are available in both brushed nickel and black.
