« Shure KSM 32 Condenser Microphone »

When I set out to buy a really good large condenser mic for my home studio, I actually hadn't even considered this mic. I went to Guitar Center looking to purchase a Neumann TLM 103 and was fully prepared to plunk down $900 for it. When I got to talking with the salesperson, however, he told me that I could save $450 and get a mic that, in his opinion, was just as good as the TLM 103. I had used the TLM 103 at a local studio, so I was fully acquainted with it's real-world performance. I frankly didn't believe him, but I figured he couldn't be lying if he was trying to sell me something CHEAPER than what I was prepared to buy unless he really meant what he was saying. At his reccomendation, I reluctantly bought the Shure KSM 32 (for $448) under the stipulation that I be able to return it if I wasn't happy. Boy, was I surprised!!! This is one awesome mic.



First of all, the mic comes packaged in a beautiful velveteen pouch and is tucked away in a sturdy metal flight case (along with an elastic shock mount which is also included). I tried it first on vocals (male and female both) and I was stunned with the accuracy and clarity of this microphone. The recorded voices seemed to take on an airy, crisp quality. The mic more than adequately captured the low end of my own voice and, based on some quick tests I did, it would seem to be an excellent mic for voice-over or narration type work as well. On acoustic guitars I was also pleasantly surprised at the trueness with which the KSM 32 captured the subtle nuances of my instrument. I tried several mic placements that I typically use, and it was clear to me that this would be my first choice for recording acoustic guitar. The mic also does a good job on percusssion instruments (tambourine, maracas) and I even tried it on a cello and it sounded great- deep, rich bass tones and an overall clear, well balanced sound. As I mentioned, this mic comes with a shock mount which I found to be easier to use than anything else I have ever tried and does a great job of eliminating unwanted noise when you accidentally bump the mic stand or stomp too loud on the floor. All in all, I don't believe there is a mic on the market at this price that can compare. Even if you are just starting out in home recording, you would be wise to pass up the AKG C3000 and save for this one. Don't get me wrong- I own a C3000 and it is a great mic for the price, but just a little patience to save the extra money is well worth it. This mic is truly world class.



Perhaps the only drawback to this unit is the fact that it is strictly cardioid. However, I understand that Shure has recently released the KSM 44 which is essentially the KSM 32 with the addition of figure 8 and omnidirectional patterns. If it's as good as this mic, I may have to buy one of those as well!

Appears to be very sturdy, although I wouldn't try dropping this (or any other) condenser mic on the floor to check it out. In terms of asthetics, this is a beautifully designed microphone, and really looks and feels like a "high end" piece of gear. As noted above, the flight case/storage pouch are nice additions as well.



Obviously, if you have $2,000 or more to spend you can find a better large condenser mic. But if, like most of us, you have a limited budget and really want to take your recordings to the next level, this is a mic you should strongly consider adding to your setup.



This review was originally published on http://www.musicgearreview.com