NILES, IL, JUNE 17, 2009 — Professional sound engineers are accustomed to seeing and using legendary Shure dynamic and condenser microphones on stage, in the studio, and on television. But even some audio veterans don’t know that Shure also manufactured ribbon microphones from the 1950s through the 1980s, such as the Models 300, 315, 315S, 330, 333, and SM33.
Now, Shure has enhanced its esteemed KSM series of microphones with two new ribbon models. The KSM353 and KSM313 are premium ribbon microphones intended for capturing world-class vocal and instrumental performances, both in the studio and on stage.
“Ribbon microphones have always been prized for their warm sound quality, but their delicate nature has limited their use to controlled conditions,” said Scott Sullivan, Shure’s Senior Director of GlobalProduct Management. “We knew there was demand for ribbon microphones that could be used in a much broader range of applications.”
The new KSM353 and KSM313 use a revolutionary patented ribbon material known as RoswelliteTM, which offers higher tensile strength and more resilient shape-memory properties than a traditional foil ribbon.
“Our recent acquisition of Crowley and Tripp ribbon microphones provided us with this opportunity,” added Sullivan. “There is a general perception in the marketplace that ribbon microphones aren’t durable enough to handle high SPL applications, like being closely miked on drums or a guitar cabinet on stage. That’s the great thing about Roswellite ribbons. This material is incredibly resilient and enables these mics to be used, not only in the studio, but also in these high SPL applications.”
While conventional ribbon microphones can be damaged by loud sounds, the ‘shape memory’ of Roswellite ribbons enables it to withstand very high sound pressure levels over extended periods of time without damage.
“We chose to maintain the two Crowley and Tripp Roswellite models, the El Diablo and the Naked Eye, and bring them into our KSM portfolio as the KSM353 and KSM313,” said Chad Wiggins, Shure’s Category Manager for Wired Products. “We’re manufacturing these models true to the original Crowley and Tripp design using the same production process, fixtures, tooling, and materials.”
Hand assembled in the USA from state-of-the art transducers, transformers, and metals, the KSM353’s ribbon assembly provides rich low frequency response, natural midrange, and a rising response in the upper range for superior presence. And, it’s bi-directional polar pattern is extremely uniform and symmetrical.
The KSM313 uses a “Dual-Voice” ribbon assembly, which enables the user to choose from two different sound signatures – addressing the front of the microphone delivers a warm, full sound that is ideal for many instruments while addressing the rear of the microphone results in a bright, articulate sound that compliments vocals.
KSM353 and KSM313 features include:
• Revolutionary RoselliteTM ribbon material: Provides superior fidelity in extremely high sound pressure environments.
• 30 – 15,000 Hz frequency response: Ideal for capturing vocals, acoustic, and amplified instruments.
• Bidirectional polar pattern: Remains uniform throughout the frequency range.
• Custom-wound double-shielded transformer: Provides high output with minimum RF interference.
• Mahogany storage case: Protects the microphone while not in use.
• ‘Monocle’ swivel stand mount (KSM313 only): Accommodates a variety of microphone orientations.
• Spring-loaded suspension shock mount (KSM353 only): Accommodates a variety of microphone orientations and provides isolation from mechanical vibration.
Shure will manufacture ribbon microphones exclusively in the U.S. Shure will also assume responsibility for ongoing service and support for existing owners of Crowley and Tripp ribbon microphone products.
The KSM353 and KSM313 Ribbon Microphones are now available and carry a two-year limited warranty. The products can be purchased at select retail partners.