KSM Microphones

Premium microphones with refined and sophisticated components that capture the world's most accomplished studio and live performances.

Cardioid Polar Pattern
Picks up the most sound in front of the microphone and some from the sides. Less susceptible to feedback in high volume environments.
OmniDirectional Polar Pattern
Equally sensitive to sound from all directions, but cannot be "aimed" to isolate one area.
Flat Frequency Response
Wide, uniform response. Consistent sensitivity through frequency range.

KSM141Dual-Pattern Instrument Microphone

Shure
Condenser
Lightweight, sensitive diaphragm. Precisely and smoothly captures sound nuances. Powered by battery or phantom power supply.
Recommended Uses
Studio Ensemble
Studio Instrument
Orchestra/Strings
Woodwinds
Acoustic Guitar
Acoustic Bass
Guitar Amp
Piano/Organ
Cymbals
Percussion
Live Stereo Recording
Available Options
KSM141/SL Includes windscreen, carry case, champagne finish
KSM141/SL STEREO Includes two KSM141, two foam windscreens, A27M Stereo Microphone Adapter, carry case

The KSM141 is a dual-pattern end-addressed condenser microphone with a rotating collar, allowing easy switching between a 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.

  • 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. 

Cartridge Type
Permanently Biased Condenser
Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz
Response Curve Image Small KSM141 View Larger
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
*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.
Dynamic Range
5000 ohm load: 131 dB
2500 ohm load: 125 dB
1000 ohm load: 120 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio**
80 dB
**S/N ratio is difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise A-weighted.
Name Availability

A141SPC (Discontinued) Carrying Case

(Discontinued) For use with two KSM141 Microphones.

Where To Buy

A141C (Discontinued) Carrying Case

(Discontinued) For use with one KSM141.

Where To Buy

A100WS Foam Windscreen

Foam Windscreen for KSM141 and KSM137 Microphones.

Where To Buy
User Guides Language File Size
KSM141 User Guide English 503 (kb)
KSM141 User Guide French 521 (kb)
KSM141 User Guide German 524 (kb)
KSM141 User Guide Italian 507 (kb)
KSM141 User Guide Spanish 524 (kb)
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