KSM141 Dual Pattern Instrument Microphone

The KSM141 is a small diaphragm end-addressed condenser microphone with a rotating collar allowing easy switching between a highly consistent cardioid or true omnidirectional polar pattern for smooth and extremely focused sound reproduction.

Designed for studio use, yet rugged enough for live applications, the KSM141 can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL). Its low self-noise and extended frequency response make it ideal for recording musical instruments. 

• KSM141/SL with windscreen and carrying case, champagne finish
• KSM141/SL ST PAIR with two KSM141 mics, two windscreens, one carrying case, champagne finish

An end-addressed large diaphragm condenser microphone with mechanically switching dual polar patterns (cardioid and omnidirectional). Designed for studio use, yet rugged enough for live applications. Dual, Condenser.

• A mechanical polar pattern switch for highly consistent cardioid and true omnidirectional polar patterns. Provides flexibility in a wide variety of recording applications
• Ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24 karat gold-layered, low mass Mylar^® diaphragm for superior transient response
• Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response, no crossover distortion, and minimal harmonic and intermodulation distortion
• Premium electronic components, including gold-plated internal and external connectors
• Subsonic filter eliminates low frequency rumble (less than 17 Hz) caused by mechanical vibration
• Three-position switchable pad (0 dB, 15 dB, and 25 dB) for handling extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs)
• Three-position switchable low-frequency filter to reduce background noise and counteract proximity effect

Performance Characteristics

• Extended frequency response
• Low self-noise
• Exceptional reproduction of low-frequency sounds
• Can withstand high sound pressure levels (SPL)
• High output level
• No crossover distortion
• Uniform polar response
• Superior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interference

Applications

Some typical applications for the KSM141 are listed below. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. The KSM141 may be used for a variety of applications other than those listed.

• 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 strongly affect the sound obtained from miking a source. You may need to experiment with microphone placement and room treatments to achieve the best overall sound for each application.

• KSM141/SL with windscreen and carrying case, champagne finish
• KSM141/SL STPAIR with two KSM141 mics, two windscreens, one carrying case, champagne finish

Cartridge Type

Permanently Biased Condenser

 

Frequency Response

20 to 20,000 Hz

 

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Directional Polar Pattern

Cardioid/Omnidirectional

 

Output Impedance

150 ohms (actual)

 

Attenuation Switch

0 dB, 15 dB, or 25 dB attenuation

 

Low Frequency Response Switch

Flat; -6 db/octave below 115 Hz;

-18 dB/octave below 80 Hz

 

Phantom Power

48 Vdc +/- 4 Vdc (IEC­268­15/DIN 45 596), positive pins 2 and 3

 

Current Drain

4.65 mA typical at 48 Vdc

 

Common Mode Rejection

>50 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz

 

Polarity

Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on output pin 2 relative to pin 3

 

Dimensions and Weight

20 mm (0.8 in.) diameter, 146 mm (5.75 in.) long;

156 grams (5.5 oz.)

 

Sensitivity (typical, at 1000 Hz; 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL)

­-37 dBV/Pa

 

Self­noise (typical, equivalent SPL; A-weighted, IEC 651)

14 dB

 

Maximum SPL

5000 ohm load (Attenuator on): 145 (160, 170) dB

2500 ohm load (Attenuator on): 139 (154, 164) dB

1000 ohm load (Attenuator on): 134 (149, 159) dB

 

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

 

*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.

• FAQ's for KSM141
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• KSM Studio Mics