Thank you for selecting the KSM32 cardioid condenser microphone.
Over 70 years of microphone manufacturing experience has
contributed to making the KSM32 one of the finest
condenser microphones available.
If you have any questions not answered in this booklet, please contact Shure
Applications at 847-866–2200, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, CST .
In Europe, call 49-7131-72140. Our web address is www.shure.com.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The ShureR KSM32 is a side-address, cardioid condenser microphone for
highly critical studio recording and live sound productions. It offers an extended frequency response for an open, natural sounding reproduction of the
original sound source.
FEA TURES
S
Class A, transformerless preamplifier circuitry eliminates cross-over
distortion for improved linearity across the full frequency range
Ultra-thin, 2.5 mm, gold-layered, low mass, MylarR diaphragm for excellent transient response
S
15 dB attenuation switch for handling extremely high sound pressure
levels (SPL)
S
Switchable low-frequency filter provides greater flexibility to reduce
background noise or to counteract proximity effect
S
Integrated three-stage pop protection grille reduces “pop” and other
breath noise
S
Internal shock mount reduces transmission of handling noise
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
S
Extended frequency response
S
Very low self noise
S
Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
S
High output level
S
High input SPL capability
S
No cross-over distortion
S
Extremely uniform polar response
S
Superior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency
interference
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MODEL V ARIATIONS
The KSM32/SL has a champagne-colored finish and comes with the follow-
ing accessories:
SLocking aluminum carrying case
SShureLockt elastic-suspension shock mount
SShureLockt swivel mount
SProtective velveteen pouch
The KSM32/CG has a non-reflective, charcoal-gray finish for situations
where less microphone visibility is prefered, such as live sound and stage production. It comes with the following accessories:
SShureLockt swivel mount
SPadded, zippered carrying bag
APPLICA TIONS
Some typical applications for the KSM32 are listed below. Microphone use,
however , is largely a matter of personal taste. The KSM32 may be used for a
variety of applications other than those listed.
SWind instruments—brass and woodwind
SLow frequency instruments—such as double bass, electric bass, kick
drum
SOverhead miking—drums or percussion
SEnsembles—choral or orchestral
SRoom ambience pick-up—guitar amplifier or drums
Both the acoustic environment and microphone placement have significant
effects on the sound obtained when miking a source. Y ou may need to experiment with these variables to achieve the best overall sound for each application.
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OPERA TION
Position the microphone so that the side marked “Shure”—the side opposite
the switches—faces the sound source.
Power
The KSM32 requires phantom power . Optimal performance will be achieved
when using a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-268-15/DIN 45 596). The microphone operates with supplies as low as 11 Vdc.
Mounting
The ShureLock swivel mount and elastic shock mount provide a secure
means of fastening the microphone to a floor or boom stand. When using the
swivel mount, the internal shock mount provides good isolation. For greater
reduction of noise from external vibrations, use the elastic shock mount.
It is important when mounting the microphone that the threaded, knurled
locking grip on the shock mount or swivel mount is screwed securely onto the
threads at the base of the microphone. Do not overtighten.
Integral Pop Filter
The KSM32 has an integral pop filter which provides excellent protection
against most wind and breath noise. An external pop protection screen may
be necessary when close-miking vocalists. The use of a low frequency cutoff
filter may also be effective.
Selecting Low-Frequency Response
A three-position switch on the back of the KSM32 allows you to adjust the
low-frequency response of the microphone. The low-frequency filter settings
can be used to compensate for wind noise, room noise or proximity effect.
Flat response. Use this setting for any application where you desire
the most natural reproduction of the source. The microphone will reproduce
ultra-low frequencies, and the ShureLock elastic-suspension shock mount
may be required to reduce mechanical vibrations transmitted through the microphone stand.
Low-frequency cutoff. Provides 18 dB-per-octave cutoff at 80 Hz.
Helps eliminate stage rumble or other low-frequency room noise such as that
coming from heating, ventilation, or cooling (HVAC) systems. It may also be
used to compensate for proximity effect or to reduce the low frequencies that
can make an instrument sound dull or “muddy .”
Low-frequency rolloff. Provides a 6dB-per-octave rolloff filter at
1 15Hz. Use this setting with vocals or instruments to compensate for proximity
effect or to reduce the low frequencies that can make an instrument sound dull
or muddy .
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Setting Attenuation
The attenuation switch on the back of the KSM32 reduces the signal level
from the cartridge by 15 dB without altering the frequency response. This can
prevent extremely high SPL from overloading the microphone. To activate attenuation, move the switch to the “–15 dB” position.
In situations where the high output capability of the KSM32 might overload
the microphone preamplifier of a console or mixer, use an attenuation switch
(pad) in the mixer or an external inline attenuator such as the Shure A15AS.
Load Impedance
A load impedance of at least 1000 Ω is recommended. When used with typical modern microphone preamplifiers (rated at about 2500 Ω), the KSM32 provides higher maximum SPL capability and output clipping level. The KSM32
can handle up to 160 dB SPL, and output +15 dBV into a 5500 Ω or greater load
with microphone attenuation.
For additional microphone service or parts information, please contact
Shure’s Service department at 1-800-516-2525. Outside the United States,
please contact your Authorized Shure Service Center .
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dB
+10
0
–10
202000010001000050100
98765432
98765432
Hz
Low-Frequency Cutoff
Low-Frequency Rolloff
TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE
(Measured 0.6 m (2 ft) from a spherical sound source, free-field conditions)
Figure 1
180
–20 dB
–15 dB
–10 dB
–5 dB
0
o
10000
15000
150
30
o
o
o
120
o
90
o
60
500, 1000
150
30
o
o
125
250
180
–20 dB
–15 dB
–10 dB
–5 dB
0
o
150
30
o
o
120
90
o
60
o
120
o
90
o
150
o
o
o
60
o
30
2500
5000
120
60
o
o
90
o
TYPICAL POLAR PATTERN
Figure 2
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Trademark Notices: The circular S logo, the stylized Shure logo, and the words
“Shure” and “The Sound of Professionals... Worldwide” are registered trademarks of Shure Brothers Incorporated in the United States. “ShureLock” is a
trademark of Shure Brothers Incorporated in the United States. “Mylar” is a registered trademark of E.I. duPont de Nemours and Company in the United States.
These marks may be registered in other jurisdictions.