Shure KSM40C
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
- Ideal for recording vocals and instruments, particularly double bass, guitar amps and drums
- 1" capsule
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 - 20,000 Hz
- Output impedance: 70 Ohm
- Sensitivity: -33.5 dBV/Pa
- Connection: 3-pin XLR (male)
- Dimensions (D x H): 48 x 171 mm
- Weight: 0.285 kg
- Colour: Black
- Includes 1 shock mount, 1 magnetic pop filter, 1 zip-up case, 8 replacement straps for the shock mount and 1 thread adapter
Note: Requires 48 V phantom power
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Available since April 2026
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Item number 638158
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Switchable Polar Pattern No
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Omnidirectional No
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Cardioid Yes
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Figure-8 No
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Low Cut No
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Pad No
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shockmount included Yes
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USB Microphone No
Large-diaphragm cardioid specialist
The Shure KSM40C is a professional fixed-cardioid large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for detailed studio recording where the scale, depth, and presence of a classic 1" capsule are preferred. A proprietary backplate design eliminates sharp resonances, producing a smooth, detailed frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz, with a gentle presence lift through the upper midrange that adds definition and air to vocals and acoustic instruments without tipping into harshness. Self-noise is rated at 7.5dB SPL-A with an 86.5dB signal-to-noise ratio – figures that place it among the quietest large-diaphragm condensers in its class. A -15dB pad raises the maximum SPL from 138dB to 153dB, and a three-position low-cut filter provides control over proximity effect and low-frequency room noise. Shockmount, hard mount, magnetic pop filter, carrying case, replacement bands, and thread adapter are all included; 48V phantom power is required.
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Precise, transparent capsule
The Shure KSM40C's 1" externally biased capsule combines the extended low-frequency response expected of a premium large-diaphragm condenser with a proprietary backplate design that keeps resonances tightly controlled. The result is a confident, detailed presentation, with a gentle presence lift between 4kHz and 7kHz that helps vocals and acoustic instruments cut through naturally without becoming aggressive. Transformerless Class A electronics capture fast transients while maintaining exceptionally low distortion and self-noise, preserving the source’s natural dynamics and tonal character. The three-position low-cut filter provides a flat response, a gentle 6dB/octave rolloff at 115Hz for proximity effect compensation, and a steeper 18dB/octave cutoff at 80Hz for room rumble and low-frequency noise. The -15dB pad raises the maximum SPL to 153dB for confident close-miking of particularly loud sources.
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A broad range of studio sources
Shure positions the KSM40C specifically for recording engineers, producers, and musicians who want the performance of a premium large-diaphragm studio condenser without requiring switchable polar patterns. Its extended low-frequency response and subtle presence lift suit lead vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, brass, woodwinds, and other acoustic instruments where a little extra presence and detail enhance the natural character of the source. The result is a microphone that suits a broad range of studio sources without being associated with one particular application. Engineers working exclusively with cardioid will find the KSM40C a more direct choice than the KSM44MP, while those needing omnidirectional or bidirectional operation will benefit from the added flexibility of its larger sibling.
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About Shure
The American company Shure began developing microphones during the early 1930s and is one of the pioneers of the audio engineering sector. Models such as the 55 Unidyne – known to many as the "Elvis microphone" – and the SM57 and SM58 which appeared in the mid-1960s are still ubiquitous in live sound production today. They enjoy cult status among musicians and technicians alike. In the 1990s, Shure introduced the first wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems and became a market leader in this field. In addition to microphones, Shure offers a wide range of earphones and headphones for studio and live use, as well as various accessories.
Vocals, instruments, and controlled environments
The Shure KSM40C rewards careful placement with a detailed, natural sound that remains consistent across very different sources – lead vocals, acoustic guitar, drum overheads, and larger ensemble recordings. Its stable off-axis response gives overheads and ensembles a balanced, coherent image, while the extended low-frequency response brings convincing weight to voices, percussion, and acoustic instruments. The switchable pad and low-cut filter provide direct control over level and unwanted low-frequency energy when recording louder sources, while the gentle presence lift adds openness and articulation without becoming harsh. Few studio condensers combine this level of consistency with such broad application, making the KSM40C a natural first choice for engineers who want premium large-diaphragm performance without the overhead of a multi-pattern design.
