For the Cherryholmes session, we used a standard three-microphone setup for recording live bluegrass. You’ll see this used at venues like the Opry and at festivals. For the main vocal/instrument microphone in the center, we chose the Shure KSM44, a staple with the Cherryholmes both live, and in-studio.

SHURE
KSM44
LIST PRICE: $699.00
Website: www.shure.com

The Shure KSM44 is a dual large diaphragm condenser microphone complete with a 3-position, low-frequency filter, 15dB pad, and three selectable polar patterns allowing the user to choose between cardioid, omni, and figure 8. It offers users exceptionally low self-noise (7dB), and a surprisingly uniform frequency response when switching between polar patterns. Though designed to work with studio vocals, the KSM44 performs equally well in a variety of live and studio applications. On vocals, the KSM44 is warm and incredibly natural-sounding. A bump between 2kHz and 9kHz helps provide extra presence and intelligibility. The 15dB attenuation switch allows the KSM44 to handle high spls (sound pressure levels), without compromising its 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, making it suitable for use on guitar cabinets, horns, and bass drums, as well as stringed instruments. You can pick between two separate low frequency roll-off’s-either a 6 dB per octave roll-off at 115Hz or an 18dB per octave roll-off at 80HZ-making the KSM44 equally adept at handling studio air conditioning systems or on-stage rumble. The Cherryholmes use the KSM44 both live and in-studio. Live, they use a Shure wireless system coupled with two KSM 44′s for vocals. The KSM44 sounded great plugged directly into our PreSonus Firepod, and even with its high output level, there was no need to use the 15dB attenuation switch. The low roll-off switch provided some protection against the rumble of the double bass only five feet away. The KSM 44 is also a great value. Shipping with a matching shock mount, swivel mount, protective pouch, and an aluminum flight case, these added components save anywhere from $100 to $300 in extra costs that come with purchasing other high performance microphones. High performance, versatility, and value make the Shure KSM44 equally useful in commercial facilities or your home studio.