Shure unveiled the KSM8 Dualdyne cardioid dynamic vocal microphone at the 2016 NAMM Show.

According to Shure, KSM8 is the world’s first dual-diaphragm dynamic handheld microphone, offering ‘revolutionary vocal reproduction’ and accurate sound-reinforcement and control, extending the company’s wired microphone line, which also includes the Unidyne 55 and the SM58.

Designed for live sound performances where vocal clarity and sound quality are absolutely critical, the KSM8 not only meets the most discerning quality and reliability standards, it also has the versatility to adapt to changing environments without impacting performance, Shure says. It promises to revolutionise dynamic microphones in the live sound industry by providing sound engineers with a mic that has virtually no proximity effect, a mastery of off-axis rejection and an output accuracy that requires none of the presence peaks or roll-offs that are typical of other dynamic microphones.

It features the purest cardioid polar pattern that Shure has developed to-date, providing consistent on-axis performance regardless of the performer’s microphone technique.

“Being part of the dynamic microphone resurgence has been extremely exciting for me, because our customers were always asking us what’s next in dynamic microphones,” said Scott Sullivan, senior director of global product management at Shure. “When it comes to microphone technology and development, Shure has, what I consider to be, the “secret formula.” In my opinion, no other company, through our exceptional engineering department, could have achieved what we did with the KSM8."

“In order to make the Dualdyne concept a reality, we had to reinvent the way we make dynamic microphones." added John Born, Shure product manager. “We knew the only way to bring the concept to life, was to set all pre-existing parts and template designs aside, and start from scratch. Since then, we’ve put over seven years of engineering and development into creating something we knew the industry needed, but had never seen. As a result, the introduction of the KSM8 brings an entirely new dynamic microphone element to the world."

The ability to virtually eliminate proximity effect and master off-axis rejection is powered by the patented Dualdyne cartridge of the KSM8, which features two ultra-thin diaphragms—one active and one passive—and a groundbreaking inverted airflow system.

A dent-resistant, hardened carbon-steel grille design lined with hydrophobic woven fabric ensures ‘exceptional’ plosive and wind protection, as well as virtually waterproof protection. The aluminum handle, which comes in a brushed nickel or black finish, completes the KSM8’s ‘clean and sophisticated design aesthetic’.

The black-finished KSM8 can also be used as a handheld transmitter option with Axient, UHF-R, ULX-D, and QLX-D wireless systems. For ULX-D and UHF-R, KSM8 transmitters are additionally available in a brushed nickel finish. Wireless capsules in both brushed nickel and black will complement the offer.

http://www.shure.com