The Shure KSM141/SL is a stereo pair of small diaphragm condensers designed for studio recording. Designed to provide sparkling high-end perfect for when you need detail in a source, these versatile microphones can capture everything from punchy drum overheads to close-miking a piano.
While intended for high-end studio recording, the KSM141/SL can also be used in live settings as their capsule makes them capable of managing high sound pressure levels without distorting or risking damage. The KSM141 gets its premium sound from an ultra-thin gold-layered Mylar diaphragm that provides excellent transient response for powerful sources like drums, cymbals, brass, or even guitar amplifiers! No matter what you’re recording, it gives you a variety of options to dial in the perfect sound at the source.
The KSM141’s switchable pad with three positions allows you to handle higher pressure sources, while a low-frequency filter can help to remove mud in the low-end. Finally, the KSM141/SL comes as a stereo pair with a variety of accessories to use for setup and positioning – you get everything you need to take advantage of stereo recording techniques. The included crossbar makes it easy to set the pair up in any configuration you like, achieving wider sound stages in live shows to give dense mixes space or to enhance the ambience in your studio work.
Studio and live workhorse
Versatility is key to any good microphone – something that can give you value by sounding good on any source you capture with it is a worthy addition to any microphone locker. The KSM141/SL offer this on every level. From their extremely thin diaphragm that offers enhanced transient response, and discrete preamplifier that prevents distortion for clarity, you gain a wide range of potential applications. This small-diaphragm condenser’s ability to handle high sound pressure levels without clipping or damaging components also makes it easy to use in live settings.
Tweakable sound
The KSM141/SL’s polar pattern switch lets you choose between cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns to help define your sound. But the tricks don’t stop there – a switchable pad and low-frequency filter help attenuate signals from high-pressure sources and reduce unwanted noise or rumbling. This flexibility makes it easy to get the best possible recordings out of these microphones.
Stereo width
Complete with a crossbar and microphone clips, this set provides plenty of options for stereo microphone placement. X-Y, ORTF, coincident pair, dual mono, or part of a mid-side microphone setup are all achievable with this stereo pair, adding width and depth to any mix.
Specifications:
Cartridge Type: Electret condenser
Frequency Response: 20 to 20000 Hz
Output Impedance: 150 ohms (actual)
Power Requirements: 48 V DC phantom 4.7 mA
Common Mode Rejection: >50 dB 50 Hz to 20 kHz
Polarity: Positive pressure on front diaphragm produces positive voltage on output pin 2 relative to pin 3
Polar Patterns: Cardioid, omnidirectional
Sensitivity (typical at 1000 Hz, 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL): -37 dBV/Pa
Self-noise (typical equivalent SPL; A-weighted IEC 651): 14 dB
Maximum SPL @ 1000 Hz:
– 5000 ohm load: 134 dB (159 dB -25 Pad)
– 2500 ohm load: 139 dB (164 dB -25 Pad)
– 1000 ohm load: 134 dB (159 dB -25 Pad)
Output Clipping Level:
– 5000 ohm load: 15 dBV
– 2500 ohm load: 9 dBV
– 1000 ohm load: 3 dBV
Dynamic Range:
– 5000 ohm load: 131 dB
– 2500 ohm load: 125 dB
– 1000 ohm load: 120 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio: 80 dB
Weight: 156 g (5.5 oz.)
Switch: Attenuator: 0 -15 -25 dB
Low Frequency Response: flat; 6 dB/octave below 115 Hz, -18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
