AUDIO TECHNICA MB2K INSTRUMENT MICROPHONE

The industry standard for affordable instrument microphones, the MB 2k features a unidirectional dynamic element design for outstanding off-axis rejection and feedback control. Its frequency response is tailored for optimal instrument pickup. This rugged, all-metal mic is equipped Audio-Technica's Hi-ENERGY® neodymium magnet structure for maximum output and fast transient response, with noise-reducing soft-touch finish, MagnaLock™ switch design for silent on/off operation, and a corrosion-resistant gold-plated XLRM-type connector.

Smart-priced introductory microphone for amplified and acoustic instruments
Tailored frequency response for optimal instrument reproduction
Unidirectional dynamic element design
Rugged all-metal construction
Hi-ENERGY® neodymium magnet for improved output and transient response
Soft-touch finish reduces mechanical noise
Silent on-off operation thanks to MagnaLock™ switch design
Corrosion-resistant gold-plated XLRM-type connector

Element: Neodymium Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
Frequency Response: 60-14,000 Hz
Open Circuit Sensitivity: -54 dB (1.9 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
Impedance: 600 ohms
Switch: MagnaLock™ on/off
Weight: 11.9 oz (337 g)
Dimensions: 7.23" (183.6 mm) long, 1.63" (41.4 mm) head diameter
Output Connector: Integral 3-pin gold-plated XLRM-type
Accessories: AT8470 Quiet-Flex® stand clamp for 5/8“-27 threaded stands; 5/8“-27 to 3/8“-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch

• Contoured frequency response for clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickup
• Professional-quality reproduction for drum, percussion, and instrument amplifier miking
• Uniform cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while reducing background noise
• Pneumatic shock-mount system cuts down handling noise
• Extremely durable under the heaviest use
• Frequency response: 40 to 15,000 Hz

The Shure KSM137 is an end-address condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Designed for studio use, yet rugged enough for live applications, the KSM137 can withstand extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL). Its low self-noise and extended frequency response make it ideal for recording musical instruments.

Features

• A highly consistent cardioid polar pattern
• 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
• Switchable 15 dB pad for handling extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs)
• 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 reduces background noise and counteracts 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 KSM137 are listed below. Microphone use, however, is a matter of personal taste. The KSM137 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.

Suggested Applications

Acoustic Guitar
Acoustic Bass
Cymbals
Brass/Woodwinds
Orchestra
Ensemble Vocals
Piano
Strings
Room Ambience
Live Recording