A microphone for live performances needs to have good sound quality, but at the same time it should be able to avoid capturing environmental noise. Hence, finding a good microphone for such purpose is often tricky and confusing. No worries! Below, we will help you choose between two popular mics for live applications, Shure KSM9 vs Neumann KMS 105.
These are high-class mics available in a similar price range. At first, they may seem identical. However, there are some distinctive differences that set them apart. Below, you can find out more about:
– The different sound characters of the two microphones,
– The features of Shure KSM9 vs Neumann KMS 105, and
– Which mic that is more reliable and easier to use in live settings.
Design and Features
First of all, both Shure KSM9 and Neumann KMS 105 come with dual polar patterns. Each of them has two selectable polar patterns, cardioid and supercardioid. This allows for great versatility in adapting to different environments. The cardioid polar pattern is generally good enough for solo performances. The supercardioid polar pattern has a narrower pickup angle, so it may be handy when there are other performers on the stage.
Shure KSM9 is available in two color choices, champagne and charcoal gray. It claims to have premium-grade electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectors for the best durability and sound quality. The output connector is XLR, but there is a wireless model is available. It comes with an advanced suspension shock mount that does a very good job. See also: Neumann TLM 102 vs AKG C414.
Neumann KMS 105 is also available in two color choices, nickel and matte black. It comes in a robust metal housing that has been optimized to reduce handling noise. The bundle also includes a stand mount, which is handy and useful. According to Neumann, this mic has a transformerless output, and the pop shielding is said to be effective in reducing plosives and wind noise without any side effect on the sound quality.
Technical Specs
| Shure KSM9 | Neumann KMS 105 |
|---|---|
| - Directional Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Supercardioid | - Directional Pattern : Cardioid / Supercardioid |
| - Frequency Response: 50 to 20,000 Hz | - Frequency Range : 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| - Output Impedance: 150 ohms (actual) | - Rated impedance : 50 ohms |
| - Sensitivity (typical; at 1000 Hz; 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL): -51 dBV/Pa | - Maximum SPL for THD : 150 dB |
Sound Quality
One distinctive advantage of Shure KSM9 is that it is quite less sensitive than Neumann KMS 105. The lower sensitivity allows Shure KSM9 to focus on the user’s voice without picking up any sound from other directions. Because of this, Shure KSM9 is much easier to use when there are other singers or instruments on the stage.
On the other hand, Neumann KMS 105 is quite more sensitive. This may be a good thing for a solo performance, when there are no other sound signals on the stage. However, using Neumann KMS 105 when there are other performers may be difficult and frustrating due to the mic picking up other sound signals.
Nevertheless, both mics have good sound accuracy. Shure KSM9 tends to be a little brighter, whereas Neumann KMS 105 has better bass depth due to the wider frequency response range. Both mics have very high maximum SPL, and they can easily handle loud voices without clipping.
Shure KSM9 Vs Neumann KMS 105
Conclusion
Between the two mics, we recommend you to choose Shure KSM9. It is quite easier to use, especially when there are other sounds on the stage. It does not pick up environmental noise. The features are similar to Neumann KMS 105, such as the dual selectable polar patterns and high SPL handling.