USING THE KSM141

Mounting the Microphone

To secure the KSM141 to a floor stand or boom, thread the mount onto the microphone stand and insert the microphone into the microphone clip.

Power Requirements

This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-268-15/DIN 45 596). It can operate on voltages as low as 11 Vdc, but headroom and sensitivity will be decreased slightly.

NOTE: Most modern mixers provide phantom power.

Cable Connections

Use a cable with XLR connectors at each end.

Load Impedance

Shure recommends a load impedance of at least 1000 Ω. When used with modern microphone preamplifiers rated at about 2500 Ω, the KSM141 provides higher maximum SPL capability and output clipping level. When the attenuation switch is set to the -25 dB position, it can handle up to 164 dB SPL, and can output +15 dBV into a load of 5000 Ω or greater.

Selecting a Polar Pattern

To select either the cardioid or omnidirectional polar pattern, rotate the knurled ring on the microphone in either direction until you feel a detent. The image of the desired polar pattern should be directly above the notch at the base of the ring.

NOTE: Operating the KSM141 in a non-detent position (no polar pattern selected) will produce an unpredictable polar pattern and may adversely affect frequency response.

Cardioid. When this pattern is selected, the microphone picks up sounds

directly in front of the microphone and is least sensitive to those in back. This is the most commonly used pattern in studio recording and live-sound applications. See Figure 4.

Omnidirectional. Picks up sounds from all directions. This pattern is best for picking up room ambience and for miking several sources, such as an ensemble or multiple singers, simultaneously. The omnidirectional polar pattern exhibits no proximity effect. See Figure 4.

WARNING: Rotating the polar pattern switch produces mechanical noise which, when amplified, may damage the loudspeakers. Turn down any loudspeakers or mute the microphone at the mixing console before changing the polar pattern.

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Shure manual Using the KSM141
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KSM141 specifications

The Shure KSM141 is a versatile and innovative condenser microphone that stands out in various audio environments, making it a popular choice among professionals. Known for its exceptional sound quality and adaptability, the KSM141 is particularly suited for both studio and live applications.

One of the main features of the Shure KSM141 is its switchable polar pattern, allowing users to choose between cardioid and omnidirectional pickup configurations. This flexibility enables the microphone to capture sound more effectively in different settings, whether it's isolating a vocal performance in a live mix or capturing ambient sound in a recording session.

The KSM141 utilizes a state-of-the-art, low-noise JFET preamplifier design, which provides a wide dynamic range and ensures clarity in sound reproduction. This technology allows the microphone to handle high sound pressure levels while minimizing distortion, making it suitable for a variety of sound sources, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.

Another significant characteristic of the KSM141 is its advanced shock mounting system. This feature helps to isolate the microphone from handling noise and vibrations, ensuring a clean and noise-free recording. The microphone's durable construction is designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use, with a rugged metal housing that protects it from physical damage.

The KSM141 also boasts an impressive frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This broad frequency response ensures that every nuance of the sound is captured, from the deep lows of a bass guitar to the crisp highs of a cymbal crash. Additionally, the microphone's self-noise level is incredibly low, enabling it to capture delicate sounds without interference.

Equipped with a high-pass filter and a 20 dB pad, the KSM141 provides further adaptability in various recording situations. The high-pass filter helps reduce low-frequency rumble, while the pad is essential for handling louder sound sources without distortion.

In summary, the Shure KSM141 is a remarkable microphone that combines versatile pickup patterns, exceptional sound quality, and robust construction. Whether for studio recording, stage performances, or capturing field audio, the KSM141 meets the needs of audio professionals, making it a reliable and valuable tool in any audio toolkit.
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