The Shure SM4 is a condenser microphone for studio-quality recordings and features a cardioid polar pattern that ensures a focused recording of both vocals and acoustic instruments in a frequency range that spans from 20Hz to 20kHz. The mic's dual-diaphragm brass capsule has been specifically designed to achieve remarkable accuracy and exceptional control of low frequencies, in addition to which the unique Interference Shielding Technology blocks unwanted RF noises from wireless devices such as smartphones. This set also includes a shock mount with a detachable magnetic pop filter and a carrying case for transporting the microphone safely and with ease. Thanks to its impressive range of features, recordings made with the SM4 will not require any further editing, which in turn makes for a more effective production process.
At the heart of the Shure SM4 is a 1" dual diaphragm made of brass, and the microphone provides both superior off-axis rejection of unwanted noise and a reduced proximity effect thanks to its uniform cardioid polar pattern and large "sweet spot", respectively. In addition to the Interference Shielding Technology, a woven mesh Faraday cage effectively shields the Shure SM4 to ensure a clean signal, while an integrated pop filter suppresses plosive sounds during vocal recordings. Signals with a sound pressure level (SPL) of up to 140dB can also be captured without distortion, and the SM4's sensitivity of -94dB/Pa will ensure that the signal reaches the DAW or mixing console with sufficient gain.
The Shure SM4 was designed for music producers who want to achieve clean and mix-ready recordings without excessive complications, and its capsule will provide a clear sound capture with a smooth, detail-rich treble response and a controlled low end for both vocal and acoustic instrument recordings. As mentioned above, the mic's Interference Shielding Technology and integrated pop filter effectively reduce noise, while the included shock mount eliminates solid-borne sound and the SM4's rugged all-metal construction makes it robust enough to capably stand up to a wide variety of applications. The Shure SM4 boasts the same outstanding level of reliability as all of the company's other microphones thanks to Shure's decades of experience in this field, in addition to which its streamlined design means that neither the artist nor their surroundings will be obscured.
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.
The shock mount included in the Shure SM4 Kit can be mounted on a microphone stand (not included), and the SM4 itself is then attached to the shock mount. The microphone features an XLR output for connection to the DAW via an audio interface, and users should note here that, being a condenser microphone, it will require a 48V phantom power supply in order to operate. Once the relevant connections have been made, the SM4 is ready for unrestricted recording. Users can subsequently edit their recorded files in a DAW, e.g. to enhance the EQ settings, reduce unwanted frequencies of specific instruments or voices, boost certain frequencies to achieve a particular sound character, or add some extra punch through the use of a compressor.