Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $951
High-end/Boutique
$100
$401+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Shure KSM44A". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unleash the power of versatile audio recording with the Shure KSM44A Multipattern Condenser Mic CRYSTAL, a premium large-diaphragm condenser microphone that's in a class of its own. Engineered for the meticulous musician or producer, this microphone offers a rich and detailed sound capture. The Shure KSM44A stands out with its dual diaphragm design and switchable directional characteristics, allowing you to seamlessly adjust between omni, cardioid, and eight patterns for the ideal recording scenario. With a frequency range of 20 - 20,000 Hz and a peak of 131 dB SPL, it's capable of handling a wide range of sonic textures and volumes.
The KSM44A isn't just a workhorse, it's a golden steed. Its 24k gold-plated Mylar membrane ensures longevity and high-quality performance, while the 15 dB attenuation element can handle very high sound pressure, making it an excellent choice for recording loud instruments or vocalists. To top it all off, it comes with an integrated pop protection and a three-stage switchable low cut filter, adding more versatility to your recordings.
Key Features:
- Premium large-diaphragm condenser microphone with dual diaphragm design
- Switchable directional characteristics: Omni, cardioid and eight
- Frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Peak SPL: 131 dB
- 2 X 24k gold-plated Mylar membrane
- 15 dB attenuation element for handling high sound pressure
- Three-stage switchable low cut filter
- Integrated pop protection
- Includes spider and storage bag with zipper
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 |
| Diaphragm Size | 1" (25.4mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 131dB (Cardioid), 137dB (Omni), 136dB (Figure-8) |
| Output Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 90dB (Cardioid), 88dB (Omni), 86.5dB (Figure-8) |
| Self Noise | 4dB (Cardioid), 6dB (Omni), 7.5dB (Figure-8) |
| Low Cut Filter | 80Hz (-18dB/octave), 115Hz (-6dB/octave) |
| Pads | -15dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1.08 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Shock Mount, Stand Mount, Carry Case, Microphone Pouch |
FAQs
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What polar patterns are available on the Shure KSM44A microphone?
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The Shure KSM44A offers three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from vocals to instruments.
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Is the Shure KSM44A suitable for vocal recording?
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Yes, the Shure KSM44A is highly suitable for vocal recording. Its large-diaphragm design and multiple polar patterns allow it to capture detailed and nuanced vocal performances in various studio settings.
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Does the Shure KSM44A require phantom power to operate?
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Yes, the Shure KSM44A requires phantom power, ideally a 48 Vdc supply, to operate efficiently. It can operate with lower voltage supplies, but this may slightly affect headroom and sensitivity.
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What is the maximum SPL of the Shure KSM44A in cardioid mode?
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The maximum SPL for the Shure KSM44A in cardioid mode is 131dB. This allows it to handle loud sound sources without distortion, making it versatile for various recording scenarios.
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Does the Shure KSM44A come with any accessories?
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Yes, the Shure KSM44A includes a shock mount, stand mount, carry case, and microphone pouch. These accessories provide convenience and protection for the microphone during use and transport.
Videos
Podcastage
Shure KSM44a Review / Test (vs. NW700, AT2020, KSM32, TLM103, U87Ai)
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional clarity, clean and noise-free sound, ideal for voice work
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Versatile across multiple instruments without needing EQ adjustments
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Neutral sound profile, excellent for taming harsh vocals or instruments
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Highly sensitive, capturing every detail for acoustic and classical music
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Solid construction with a durable shock mount and elegant case
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Provides a warm, round, and transparent sound quality
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Multiple polar patterns and bass cut levels for flexibility
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Compares favorably to more expensive microphones like the U87
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Assertive sound profile, distinct from other models like KSM32
CONS
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Extremely sensitive to mouth clicks, requiring careful mic technique
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure KSM44A.
Comparisons
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The KSM44 is described as a great alternative to the AKG C414, with a more mellow high end while maintaining clarity.
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The KSM44A is occasionally found under $500 used, making it a competitive choice against other high-end mics like the Neumann TLM102 and Audio Technica 4050.
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Users compare KSM44A favorably to the KSM32 for a similar sound profile, but with the KSM44A offering more features and versatility.
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Value and pricing
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Pairs of KSM44s are frequently available for under $1000 on the used market, offering significant savings compared to C414s.
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It's suggested to invest in DIY acoustic treatment after purchasing a KSM44A to optimize recording quality in untreated spaces.
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A Shure KSM44 priced at $400 is considered a steal, with past owners having paid similar amounts and finding it worthwhile.
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Some users have found KSM44s available for as low as $350 in pawn shops, suggesting a potential for strong deals in the secondhand market.
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Use cases and applications
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Excels in various roles: vocals, kick drum reso head, drum overheads, and room mics.
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The KSM44A is highlighted as versatile for different vocal types, suggesting it performs well across various voice characteristics.
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The KSM44 has been used effectively on guitar cabs and as solo mics for big band performances.
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Features and functionality
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The figure 8 polar pattern is highlighted for its utility, such as isolating hi-hats from snare drums.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Imogen appears to be using a Shure KSM44A microphone in the PBS Soundbreaking video, based on the distinctive curved shape on the edges of the microphone and the double ridge design below the grill.
In this video Alexander told that he uses Shure KSM44A and Shure SM 7B as his lead microphones
To capture the sound that Hersh wanted out of her Collings C10, which is the key guitar on Wyatt at the Coyote Palace, Rizzo would usually start with a Shure KSM44A and a Miktek C7
Lauren Daigle performs "O' Lord" from her album "How can it be" using the Shure KSM44A microphone.
Album Usage
The Shure KSM44A has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Shure KSM44A, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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