The KSM44/SL is a multiple pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional), externally biased, dual large diaphragm condenser microphone with extremely low self-noise (7dB). Developed to meet the needs of studio recording musicians, the warm, rich sound of the KSM44 delivers exceptional performance, tailored to deliver vivid reproduction of voice for the most critical recordings. The KSM44 also offers great flexibility in a variety of recording applications, working well on acoustic and amplified instruments, as its capacity for managing high SPLs accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers.
Features
- Dual 1-inch, externally biased, ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass, Mylar ® diaphragms provide superior transient response
- Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response and no crossover distortion; minimizes harmonic and intermodulation distortions
- Full-range frequency response (20 Hz - 20 KHz) for an extremely accurate reproduction of voice and instruments
- Extremely low self noise (7 dBA) for critical studio vocal recording
- Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors
- Subsonic filter eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 Hz
- 15 dB attenuation switch for handling high input SPL sound sources
- 3-position switchable low-frequency filter virtually eliminates unwanted background noise and controls proximity effect
- Durable zinc die-cast housing and hardened low carbon steel grille to protect cartridge from accidental drops or misuse
- Uniform polar response provides natural off-axis response for critical recording
- Integrated three-stage pop protection grille to guard against wind and breath noise
- Internal shock mount to reduce unwanted handling and stand noise
Performance Characteristics
- Extended frequency response
- Very low self-noise
- Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
- High output level
- High input SPL capability
- No cross-over distortion
- Extremely uniform polar response
- Superior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interference
Applications
The KSM44/SL is designed as a premium vocal microphone for studio recording. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. Here is a non-exhaustive list of common applications:
- Vocals -- solo, background, voice-over
- Acoustic instruments -- such as piano, guitar, drums, percussion, strings
- Wind instruments -- brass and woodwind
- Low frequency instruments -- such as double bass, electric bass, kick drum
- Overhead miking -- drums or percussion
- Ensembles -- choral or orchestral Room ambiance pick-up -- guitar amplifier or drums
Both the acoustic environment and microphone placement have significant effects on the sound obtained when miking any sound source. We encourage users to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound.
Specifications
- Cartridge Type: Externally biased condenser
- Frequency Response: 20 to 20,000 Hz
- Output Impedance: 150 ohms (actual)
- Attenuation Switch: 0 or 15 dB attenuation
- Low Frequency Response Switch: Flat; -6 dB/octave below 115 Hz; -18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
- Phantom Power: 48 Vdc (IEC-268-15/DIN 45 596), positive pins 2 and 3
- Current Drain: 5.4 mA typical at 48 Vdc
- Common Mode Rejection: > 50 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Polarity: Positive pressure on front diaphragm produces positive voltage on output pin 2 relative to pin 3
- Directional Polar Patterns Cardioid; Omnidirectional; Bidirectional
- Sensitivity (typical; at 1000 Hz; 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL): -31 dBV/Pa; -37 dBV/Pa; -36 dBV/Pa
- Self-noise (typical, equivalent SPL; A-weighted, IEC 651): 7 dB ;10 dB; 10 dB
- Maximum SPL @ 1000 Hz:
- 2500 ohm load (Attenuator on) 132 (149) dB; 138 (151) dB; 137 (150) dB
- 1000 ohm load (Attenuator on) 127 (144) dB; 132 (145) dB; 131 (144) dB
- Output Clipping Level*:
- 2500 ohm load 7 dBV; 7 dBV; 7 dBV
- 1000 ohm load 1 dBV; 1 dBV; 1 dBV
- Dynamic Range:
- 2500 .ohm load 125 dB; 128 dB; 127 dB
- 1000 ohm load 120 dB; 122 dB; 121 dB
- Signal to Noise ratio**: 87 dB; 84 dB; 84 dB
- Dimensions and Weight: 55.9 mm (2.20 in.) maximum body diameter, 187 mm (7.37 in.) long; 490.5 grams (17.30 oz).
<20 Hz to 20 kHz;THD < 1%. THD of the microphone preamplifier when applied input signal is equivalent to the cartridge output at specified SPL.
**S/N ratio is difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise A-weighted.
