Description
Cardioid condenser microphone delivers a smooth, neutral sound reproduction with full character and consists of a microphone, a padded, zippered carrying bag, and a swivel mount.
PRODUCT DETAILS
An embossed single-diaphragm, side-address, cardioid condenser microphone for highly critical studio recording and live sound productions. The Shure KSM32 offers an extended frequency response for an open, natural sounding reproduction of the original sound source.
- Class A, transformerless preamplifier circuitry eliminates cross-over distortion for improved linearity across the full frequency range.
- Embossed, high-compliance diaphragm provides extended low-frequency response.
- Ultra-thin, gold-layered, low-mass, Mylar® diaphragm for excellent transient response
- 15 dB attenuation switch for handling extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL)
- Switchable low-frequency filter provides greater flexibility to reduce background noise or to counteract proximity effect.
- Integrated three-stage pop protection grille reduces "pop" and other breath noise
- Internal shock mount reduces transmission of handling noise
- Replacement cartridge: RK374
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
Some typical applications for the KSM32 are listed below. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. The KSM32 may be used for a variety of applications other than those listed.
- Voice -- solo, background, voice-over, broadcasting
- 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 a source. You may need to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound for each application.
General Description
The Shure® KSM32 is a premium, side-address, condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern engineered for highly critical studio recording and live sound productions. With an extremely flat, extended frequency response, the KSM32 provides transparent reproduction of the original sound source. A 15 dB attenuation switch allows the KSM32 to handle the high sound pressure levels (SPL) associated with drums, percussion, and ensembles, while the 3 position low cut filter helps counteract stage vibrations or proximity effect.
Performance Characteristics
- Extremely uniform polar response
- Extended frequency response
- Minimal self-noise
- Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
- Able to withstand high SPLs
- High output level
- No crossover distortion
- Superior common-mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interference (RFI)
Features
- Class A, transformerless preamplifier circuitry eliminates cross-over distortion for improved linearity across the full frequency range
- Embossed, high-compliance diaphragm provides extended low frequency response and consistent off-axis rejection
- Ultra-thin, 2.5 µm 24-karat gold-layered, low-mass Mylar® diaphragm for superior transient response
- 15 dB attenuation switch for handling extremely high SPLs
- Variable low-frequency filter provides greater flexibility to counteract proximity effect or to reduce mechanical rumble
- Integrated three-stage "pop" protection grille reduces plosives and other breath noise
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces the pickup of unwanted sounds
- Internal shock mount reduces handling and stand noise
- Superior build construction withstands daily use on the stage or in the studio
Variations
The KSM32/SL has a champagne-colored finish and comes with the following accessories:
- Locking aluminum carrying case
- ShureLock® elastic-suspension shock mount
- Protective velveteen pouch
The KSM32/CG has a non-reflective, charcoal-gray finish for situations where less microphone visibility is preferred, such as live sound and stage production. It comes with the following accessories:
- ShureLock swivel mount
- Padded, zippered carrying bag
Applications
- Brass and woodwind instruments
- Orchestras, choirs, and wind ensembles
- Overhead miking of drums and percussion instruments
- Close-miking of acoustic instruments such as piano, guitar, violins, drums, and percussion
- Low-frequency instruments such as double bass and kick drum
- Electric guitar and bass amplifiers
- Vocals and speech
- Room ambience
Note: Sound quality is strongly affected by microphone location and room acoustics. To achieve the best overall sound for a particular application, it may be necessary to experiment with microphone placement and room treatments.
Power Requirements
This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-61938). However, it will operate with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity with supplies as low as 11 Vdc.
Most modern mixers provide phantom power. You must use a balanced microphone cable: XLR-to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS.
Suspension Mount
Use the supplied ShureLock® rubber suspension mount to secure the microphone to a floor or boom stand.
Important: Thread the knurled locking ring securely to the base of the microphone. Do not overtighten.
Positioning
Position the front of the microphone, with SHURE®, towards the desired sound source. Position the rear of the microphone, with the vintage circle S logo, towards any unwanted sound sources.
Selecting Low-Frequency Response
A three-position switch on the back of the microphone lets you adjust the low-frequency response. Use the low-frequency filter to reduce wind noise, room noise, or proximity effect.



Setting Attenuation
The attenuation switch lets you reduce the signal level without altering the frequency response. This can prevent extremely loud sounds from overloading the microphone circuitry.
0 dB For "quiet" to "normal" sound levels.
-15 dB For use with extremely loud sound sources such as drums, horns, or loud guitar cabinets.
Load Impedance
Maximum SPL capability, output clipping level, and dynamic range vary with the input load impedance of the preamplifier to which you connect the microphone. Shure recommends a minimum input load impedance of 1000 Ω. Most modern microphone preamplifiers meet this requirement. Higher impedance results in better performance for these specifications.
Integral Pop Filter
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.
Specifications
Cartridge Type
Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz
Output Impedance
150 Ω
Sensitivity
open circuit voltage, @ 1 kHz, typical
–36 dBV/Pa[1] (16.0 mV)
Maximum SPL
1 kHz at 1% THD[2]
PAD ON | 2500 Ω load | 154 dB |
1000 Ω load | 148 dB | |
PAD OFF | 2500 Ω load | 139 dB |
1000 Ω load | 133 dB |
Signal-to-Noise Ratio[3]
81 dB
Dynamic Range
@ 1 kHz
2500 Ω load | 126 dB |
1000 Ω load | 119 dB |
Clipping Level
20 Hz to 20 kHz, 1% THD
2500 Ω load | 9.0 dBV |
1000 Ω load | 3.0 dBV |
Self Noise
equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical
13.0 dB SPL-A
Common Mode Rejection
20 to 20,000 kHz
≥50 dB
Attenuator Switch
0, -15 dB
Low-Frequency Filter Switch
Flat, –6 dB/octave below 115 Hz, or –18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
Connector
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced
Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
Power Requirements
11–52 V DC[4] phantom power (IEC-61938), 4.7 mA
Net Weight
490 g (17 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.
Typical Frequency Response
Typical Polar Patterns
Overall Dimensions
Accessories
Furnished Accessories
ShureLock Champagne Swivel Adapter |
A44M |
Carrying Case |
AK32C |
Protective Velveteen Pouch |
A44VB |
ShureLock Elastic-Suspension Shock Mount for KSM32 Models |
A32SM |
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Refund Policy
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unused, with all accessories and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To start a return, you can contact us at boutique@seconcept.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label (at your expenses) as well as instructions on how and where to send your package back. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted and not refunded.
You can always contact us for any questions prior to purchase by email at: boutique@seconcept.com.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
All Returns must contain all associated packaging and materials (ie accessories, manuals, wires, etc). Merchandise that is not returned in brand-new condition, including damages, abuse, marks, showing wear, or with missing packaging or accessories, will be subject to additional charges. Shipping and Handling charges (delivery and return) are non-refundable, including any shipping fees not directly incurred that are part of a free shipping promotion. Any items packaged with software, including but not limited to, DJ Controllers, Audio Interfaces, etc., must be returned with the original software disc including serial number and proof of deactivation.
We cannot accept returns on liquidation, special orders, liquid, needles, parts, used, sales, open box item or gift cards.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.