Shure: The Standard in Pro Audio Microphones
Shure is a brand that is synonymous with high-quality microphones. They have been around for nearly 100 years and have developed a reputation for producing reliable, durable, and great-sounding microphones. Shure offers a wide range of microphones, each designed to suit different applications and environments. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the various types of Shure microphone models and their uses.
Dynamic Microphones: Dynamic microphones are the most common type of microphone and are ideal for use in live sound reinforcement and recording applications. Shure has several dynamic microphone models, including the SM58, SM57, and the Beta 52A.
SM58:
The SM58 is one of the most popular dynamic microphones on the market. It is designed for live vocal performances and is known for its warm and clear sound. The SM58 has a cardioid polar pattern, which means that it only picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for use on stage, as it helps to minimize feedback and unwanted noise.
SM57:
The SM57 is another popular dynamic microphone from Shure. It is often used for recording guitar amps and drums, as well as for live performances. Like the SM58, the SM57 has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response that is tailored for mid-range frequencies. This makes it great for capturing the sound of instruments with a lot of presence and attack.
Beta 52A:
The Beta 52A is a dynamic microphone that is specifically designed for use with kick drums and other bass-heavy instruments. It has a supercardioid polar pattern, which means that it is more directional than the SM58 and SM57. This helps to isolate the sound of the kick drum from the other instruments on stage or in the mix, resulting in a more defined and punchy sound.
Condenser Microphones: Condenser microphones are more sensitive than dynamic microphones and are ideal for capturing detailed and nuanced recordings. Shure has several condenser microphone models, including the SM27, SM81, and the KSM32.
SM27:
The SM27 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that is great for recording vocals, acoustic guitars, and other instruments. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response that is tailored for a wide range of frequencies. This makes it ideal for capturing the full range of a singer's voice or the complex harmonics of an acoustic guitar.
SM81:
The SM81 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone that is often used for recording acoustic instruments, such as stringed instruments, pianos, and cymbals. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response that is tailored for high-frequency sounds. This makes it great for capturing the bright and airy sound of a cymbal or the subtle nuances of a violin.
KSM32:
The KSM32 is another large-diaphragm condenser microphone that is designed for use in the studio. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response that is tailored for mid-range frequencies. This makes it great for capturing the warmth and richness of a singer's voice or the natural sound of an acoustic guitar.
Wireless Microphones: Shure also offers a range of wireless microphone systems that allow performers and presenters to move freely around the stage or room without being tethered to a microphone cable. The most popular wireless microphone systems from Shure are the BLX, QLX-D, and the ULX-D.
BLX:
The BLX wireless microphone system is designed for use in small venues and houses of worship. It offers a range of up to 300 feet and can support up to 12 compatible systems per frequency band. The BLX system includes a variety of handheld and lavalier microphone options, making it ideal for use in presentations, speeches, and live performances.
QLX-D:
The QLX-D wireless microphone system is designed for use in medium to large venues, such as concert halls and theaters. It offers a range of up to 330 feet and can support up to 22 compatible systems per frequency band. The QLX-D system includes a variety of handheld and lavalier microphone options, as well as instrument microphones, making it ideal for use in live sound reinforcement and recording applications.
ULX-D:
The ULX-D wireless microphone system is designed for use in professional audio applications, such as broadcast, film, and television. It offers a range of up to 330 feet and can support up to 47 compatible systems per frequency band. The ULX-D system includes a variety of handheld and lavalier microphone options, as well as instrument microphones and boundary microphones, making it ideal for use in a wide range of audio applications.
Axient Digital:
Shure also offers the Axient Digital wireless microphone system. Axient Digital is a premium wireless microphone system designed for use in professional audio applications, such as live events, broadcast, and film production. The Axient Digital system includes a variety of handheld and lavalier microphone options, as well as instrument microphones and boundary microphones. The system offers a range of up to 330 feet and can support up to 17 compatible systems per frequency band. It also includes features such as high-density mode, which allows for more channels to be used in a smaller frequency band, and interference detection and avoidance, which helps to ensure a reliable and interference-free wireless connection. Axient Digital also offers advanced features such as the ability to remotely monitor and control the system via Shure's Wireless Workbench software, as well as automatic frequency coordination, which helps to optimize the system's performance in complex RF environments.
Conclusion:
Shure offers a wide range of microphone models, each designed to suit different applications and environments. Whether you're a live performer, recording engineer, or presenter, there is a Shure microphone that is perfect for your needs. From the legendary SM58 and SM57 dynamic microphones to the high-end KSM32 condenser microphone and Axient Digital, Shure has a reputation for producing reliable and great-sounding microphones. So, whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, you can trust a Shure microphone to deliver the sound quality and performance you need.