Shure KSM40C 1" Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Shure KSM40C is a large-diaphragm, side-address condenser microphone designed for detailed studio recording. Its cardioid pickup pattern helps focus on the intended source while reducing surrounding room sound and bleed. It is suited to vocal recording, voiceover, acoustic instruments, guitar amplifiers, upright bass, and kick drum applications.

A precision-engineered 1-inch single-diaphragm capsule gives the KSM40C a full low-frequency character with smooth high-frequency detail. Its response is designed to capture vocal presence and instrument nuance without emphasizing sharp upper-frequency resonances. The uniform cardioid pattern also provides a predictable starting point when positioning the microphone.

With 7.5 dBA self-noise and an 86.5 dB signal-to-noise ratio, the KSM40C is equipped for quiet sources and detailed recording work. Its sensitivity of -33.5 dBV/Pa helps it produce a healthy output for compatible microphone preamps. A selectable 15 dB pad increases headroom for loud sources such as drums, horns, and guitar cabinets.

The microphone includes a three-position low-frequency filter for adapting to the recording environment and source placement. Choose flat response for a natural capture, a 115 Hz rolloff to help manage proximity effect, or an 80 Hz high-pass cutoff to reduce low-frequency room noise. These controls make it easier to tailor the microphone before processing.

The KSM40C is supplied as a complete studio-ready package with a shock mount, magnetic pop filter, swivel hard mount, carrying case, replacement shock-mount bands, and threaded adapter. It connects through a balanced 3-pin XLR output and requires phantom power from a mixer, audio interface, or dedicated microphone preamp. This makes it a practical upgrade for a recording chain built around a quality XLR input and 48 V phantom power.

Key Features

• 1-Inch Capsule: Large single-diaphragm design captures detailed sound with substantial low-end response.
• Cardioid Pickup: Focuses on the sound source while helping reduce room and off-axis bleed.
• Low Self-Noise: 7.5 dBA self-noise supports clean recording of quieter performances.
• 15 dB Pad: Adds headroom for louder instruments, amplifiers, horns, and drums.
• Three-Position Low Cut: Provides flat, 115 Hz rolloff, and 80 Hz cutoff settings.
• Complete Accessory Suite: Includes shock mount, magnetic pop filter, case, hard mount, bands, and adapter.

Design & Installation

The KSM40C uses a machined, anodized aluminum-alloy housing for a durable but relatively lightweight microphone body. Its precision-machined steel grille protects the gold-layered capsule, while the included shock mount helps isolate the microphone from stand-borne vibration. The magnetic pop filter attaches to the shock mount to help reduce plosive sounds during close vocal recording.

Connect the microphone to a balanced XLR microphone input with phantom power enabled; 48 V DC is specified for full performance. Shure recommends a preamp input impedance of at least 1,000 ohms. Mount it on a stable boom stand using the supplied shock mount or swivel hard mount, then select the pad and low-frequency filter appropriate for the source and placement.