Shure unveils first dual diaphragm dynamic mic
Published: PRODUCTS
Shure is the claiming a world’s first with the introduction of a dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld microphone. Named the KSM8, the microphone is the result of a long-term project to virtually eliminate the proximity effect, whilst delivering the manufacturer’s ‘purest’ polar pattern to greatly improve off-axis rejection. The result, says Shure, is that the microphone almost eliminates the need for equalisation and processing at the mixing console.
Responsible for these attributes is the unit’s Dualdyne diaphragm, a technology that the manufacturer has put a considerable amount of time and energy into developing – as an assembled crowd heard during a special event staged on the eve of the 2016 NAMM Show.
‘In order to make the Dualdyne concept a reality, we had to reinvent the way we make dynamic microphones,’ explained product manager John Born. ‘We’ve put over seven years of engineering and development into creating something we knew the industry needed, but had never seen.’ The manufacturer has also hailed the KSM8 as its most significant dynamic mic advancement in more than 50 years.
The Dualdyne cartridge features two ‘ultra-thin’ diaphragms – one active and one passive – and a new inverted airflow system. Its pneumatic shock mount reportedly offers exceptional rejection of handling noise, and a dent-resistant carbon-steel grille lined with hydrophobic woven fabric is stated to offer ‘exceptional plosive and wind protection while being virtually waterproof’.
The KSM8’s aluminium handle can be finished in brushed nickel or black, and the mic is also available as a handheld transmitter option for use with Axient, UHF-R, ULX-D and QLX-D systems, as well as a wireless capsule for use with other Shure wireless systems.