Shure Debuts Wired KSM11 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone

January 22 2025, 00:55
Following the introduction of its KSM11 Wireless Cardioid Condenser Capsule in 2022, expanding Shure's prestigious KSM range, the company continues to elevate the standard for premium vocal performance microphones. The new Shure KSM11, a wired version of the highly praised capsule used on high-profile tours, delivers the same recognized vocal clarity and natural sound of the wireless capsule in a purposely designed XLR microphone.
 

Building on the KSM11’s reputation as a premium standard for vocal microphones, the wired KSM11 now makes top-tier performance accessible to artists and engineers who demand an XLR solution for live performance, broadcast, simulcast, and live-streamed applications. For performances that require efficient and unmatched quality, the KSM11 requires substantially less processing and EQ to reproduce the true quality and intelligibility of artists’ vocals. 

The wired version retains all the benefits of its wireless counterpart, including its proprietary condenser capsule using a 3/4” gold diaphragm and premium electronics for exceptional dynamic range and transient response. The highly consistent, deep cardioid polar pattern helps reduce off-axis phase distortion for pristinely focused vocal reproduction and provides rich and full low-frequency response, linear and transparent mid-range, and natural high-end detail. The KSM11 capsule is also supported by an advanced suspended isolation system for minimizing handling noise and protected externally by a dent-resistant hardened steel grille with 3-stage plosive reduction pop filtering for consistent vocals.

“The KSM11 sets a new standard for top-of-the-line condenser microphones, delivering the most natural, transparent, and high-clarity audio without the need for additional processing,” says Nick Wood, Senior Director, Global Marketing and Product Management at Shure. “We knew it was unlike anything else on the market, and with the introduction of the wireless capsule, we saw strong demand for a wired version. It became clear that artists and engineers saw the potential for this technology in live performances where the simplicity of a wired setup is required.”

Since its debut, the KSM11 has been adopted by front-of-house and monitor engineers for performers such as Dua Lipa, Tyler, the Creator, and Miley Cyrus. These engineers praised the microphone’s ability to deliver honest and pure vocal reproduction, simplifying the mix process while ensuring every bit of the artist’s performance is heard with unmatched clarity.

“When I compared it to the other very popular mic, I was surprised that the (KSM)11 had much better high-end to it. It was much smoother, much more natural. I’d say put it in your lineup, because it is going to be a great-sounding mic,” stated Paul Hager, FOH for Miley Cyrus.

“Rappers, MCs – they always cup the mic. That is the notorious problem with hip-hop. I actually talked to Shure, and I said, ‘Boy, it’d be really nice if you had a mic that could do this.’ So, they sent me a capsule of the KSM11... And I was like ‘Nailed it, you got it.’ It is consistent whether or not your artist cups the mic. I can just trust it. I can trust that capsule to get the job done,” adds Paul Wichmann, FOH for Tyler, The Creator.

The KSM11 Wired Microphone (XLR), retailing at $799 USD, is available now and will be on display at the Shure booth #15608 at NAMM 2025 in Anaheim. 
www.shure.com
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About Joao Martins
Since 2013, Joao Martins leads audioXpress as editor-in-chief of the US-based magazine and website, the leading audio electronics, audio product development and design publication, working also as international editor for Voice Coil, the leading periodical for... Read more

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