Shure KSM32 User manual

User Guide
27B3044 (Rev. 2)
E2003, Shure Incorporated Printed in U.S.A.

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Low-frequency
response switch
15 dB
attenuator
KSM32
BACK
KSM32
FRONT
FIGURE 1. KSM32 Front and Back
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The ShureRKSM32 is a side-address condenser microphone with a cardioid polar
pattern. Designed for studio use but rugged enough for live applications, the KSM32
has an externally biased 1-inch diaphragm, extremely low self-noise, and an
extended frequency response specially tailored for vocal tracking and instrument
recording.
FEATURES
SClass A, transformerless preamplifier circuitry eliminates cross-over distortion
for improved linearity across the full frequency range
SEmbossed, high-compliance diaphragm provides extended low frequency
response
SUltra-thin, 2.5 mm, gold-layered, low mass, MylarRdiaphragm for excellent
transient response
S15 dB attenuation switch for handling extremely high sound pressure levels
(SPL)
SSwitchable low-frequency filter provides greater flexibility to reduce back-
ground noise or to counteract proximity effect
SIntegrated three-stage pop protection grille reduces “pop” and other breath
noise
SInternal shock mount reduces transmission of handling noise

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PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
SExtended frequency response
SVery low self noise
SExceptional low-frequency reproduction
SHigh output level
SHigh input SPL capability
SNo crossover distortion
SExtremely uniform polar response
SSuperior common mode rejection and suppression of radio frequency interfer-
ence
MODEL VARIATIONS
The KSM32/SL has a champagne-colored finish and comes with the following ac-
cessories:
SLocking aluminum carrying case
SShureLocktelastic-suspension shock mount
SShureLocktswivel mount
SProtective velveteen pouch
The KSM32/CG has a non-reflective, charcoal-gray finish for situations where less
microphone visibility is prefered, such as live sound and stage production. It comes
with the following accessories:
SShureLocktswivel mount
SPadded, zippered carrying bag
APPLICATIONS
Some typical applications for the KSM32 are listed below. Microphone use, however,
is largely a matter of personal taste. The KSM32 may be used for a variety of applica-
tions other than those listed.
SVoice and vocals
SClose-miking of acoustic instruments such as piano, guitar, violins, drums,
and percussion
SBrass and woodwind instruments
SLow-frequency instruments such as double bass and kick drum
SOverhead miking for drums or percussion
SOrchestras, choirs, wind ensembles
SRoom ambience pick-up (guitar amplifier or drums)
NOTE: Sound quality is strongly affected by microphone location and room
acoustics. To acheive the best overall sound for a particular application, it may be
necessary to experiment with microphone placement and various room treatments.

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OPERATION
Mounting
The ShureLock swivel mount and elastic shock mount provide a secure means of
fastening the microphone to a floor or boom stand. When using the swivel mount,
the internal shock mount provides good isolation. For greater reduction of noise from
external vibrations, use the elastic shock mount.
It is important when mounting the microphone that the threaded, knurled locking grip
on the shock mount or swivel mount is screwed securely onto the threads at the base
of the microphone. Do not overtighten.
Power
The KSM32 requires phantom power and performs optimally with a 48 Vdc supply
(IEC-268-15/DIN45 596). However, it will operate with slightly decreased headroom
and sensitivity with supplies as low as 11 Vdc. Most modern mixers provide phantom
power. Phantom power can only be transmitted to the KSM32 through a cable
terminated with XLR connectors at each end.
Positioning the Microphone
The front of the KSM32 is marked by the Rlogo. See Figure 1. Position this
side of the microphone toward the sound source. The rear of the microphone is
marked by the logo, the low-frequency filter switch, and the 15dB attenuation
switch.
Selecting Low-Frequency Response
A three-position switch on the back of the KSM32 allows you to adjust the
low-frequency response of the microphone. The low-frequency filter settings can be
used to reduce wind noise, room noise or proximity effect.
Flat response. Provides the most natural sound in most applications.
Low-frequency cutoff. Provides a 15
dB-per-octave cutoff at 80 Hz. Helps
eliminate floor rumble and low-frequency
room noise from heating and air conditioning
systems. This setting may also be used to
compensate for proximity effect or to reduce
low frequencies that make an instrument
sound dull or muddy.
Low-Frequency Rolloff. Provides a 6
dB-per-octave rolloff filter at 115 Hz. Use this
to compensate for proximity effect or to
reduce low frequencies that could make an
instrument sound dull or muddy.
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+5
0
–10
Hz
dB
Low-Frequency Cutoff
Low-Frequency Rolloff
Flat Response
FIGURE 2. LOW FREQUENCY RESPONSES

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Setting Attenuation
The attenuation switch on the back of the KSM32 reduces the signal level from the
cartridge by 15 dB without altering the frequency response. This can prevent
extremely high SPLs (ie. close miked drums and guitar cabinets) from overloading
the microphone. To activate attenuation, move the switch to the “-15 dB” position.
0 dB – Use this switch for “quiet” to “normal” sound levels.
–15 dB – Use this switch position when in close proximity with extremely loud
sound sources such as kick drum, snare drum, or loud guitar cabinets.
In situations where the high output capability of the KSM32 might overload the micro-
phone preamplifier of a console or mixer, use an attenuation switch (pad) in the mixer
or an external inline attenuator such as the Shure A15AS.
Integral Pop Filter
The KSM32 grille consists of 3 separate mesh layers that act as an integral pop filter
which helps reduce wind and breath noise. Depending on the performer, an external
pop-protection screen or windscreen (See Figure 3) may be necessary when
close-miking vocalists.
FIGURE 3. PS-6 POPPER STOPPERTPOP FILTER
Load Impedance
Shure recommends a load impedance of at least 1000 Ω. When used with modern
microphone preamplifiers (rated at 2500 Ω), the KSM32 provides higher maximum
SPL capability and output clipping level. When the attenuation switch is set to the
–15 dB position, the KSM32 can handle sound pressure levels of up to 160 dB and
output +15 dBV into a load of 5500 Ωor greater, with microphone attenuation.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Cartridge Type Permanently-biased Condenser
Frequency Response 20 to 20,000 Hz (see Figure 4)
Directional Polar Pattern Cardioid (see Figure 5)
Output Impedance 150 Ω(actual)
Attenuation Switch 0 or –15 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 (IEC–268–15/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 55.9 mm (2.20 in.) maximum body diameter,
187 mm (7.37 in.) long (see Figure 6)
490 grams (17.3 oz.)
Sensitivity (typical, at 1000 Hz;
1 Pa = 94 dB SPL) –36 dBV/Pa (16 mV)
Self–noise (typical, equivalent SPL;
A–weighted, IEC 651) 13 dB
Maximum SPL at 1000 Hz
2500 Ωload (Attenuator on)
1000 Ωload (Attenuator on)
139 (154) dB
133 (148) dB
Output Clipping Level*
2500 Ωload
1000 Ωload
+9 dBV
+3 dBV
Dynamic Range
2500 Ωload
1000 Ωload
126 dB
119 dB
Signal to Noise ratio** 81 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD),
2500 Ωload <0.08% for a 120 dB equivalent SPL input.
*20 Hz to 20 kHz; THD < 1%. THD of microphone preamplifier when applied input signal is equivalent to cartridge output at specified SPL.
**S/N ratio is difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise, A-weighted.

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FIGURE 4. TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE
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20 200001000 1000050 100 98765432 98765432
+10
0
–10
Hz
dB
60 cm.
15 cm.
FIGURE 5. TYPICAL POLAR PATTERNS
FIGURE 6. DIMENSIONS
55.9 mm
(2.20 IN.)
187 mm
(7.37 IN.)

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CERTIFICATION
Eligible to bear CE Marking; Conforms to European EMC directive 89/336/EEC.
Meets applicable tests and performance criteria found in European Professional
Audio Products EMC Standard EN 55103 (1996); Part 1 (Emissions) and Part 2
(Immunity). The KSM32 is intended for use in environments E1 (residential) and E2
(Light Industrial) as defined in European standard EN 55103. EMC conformance is
based on the use of shielded interconnecting cable.
N 108
FURNISHED ACCESSORIES
ShureLocktRubber Isolated Shock Mount (SL Model only) A32SM. . . . . . . .
ShureLocktBlack Swivel Adapter A32M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aluminum Carrying Case (SL Model only) A32SC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Popper StoppertPop Screen PS–6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Padded, Zippered Carrying Bag A32ZB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Protective Velveteen Pouch A32VB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Suspension Shock Mount Elastic Cords (set of two) RK373. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SERVICE
For additional microphone service or parts information, please contact the Shure
Service department at 1-800-516-2525. Outside the United States, please contact
your Authorized Shure Service Center.