Shure

Shure KSM32/CG Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone

4.7 (81 reviews)

Capture Every Nuance with Exceptional ClarityThe Shure KSM32 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a premium side-address microphone designed for critical studio recording and live sound productions. With its extended frequency response and transformerless preamplifier, this microphone delivers a smoo...

$599.00*$659.00Save 9%
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

Capture Every Nuance with Exceptional Clarity

The Shure KSM32 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a premium side-address microphone designed for critical studio recording and live sound productions. With its extended frequency response and transformerless preamplifier, this microphone delivers a smooth, neutral sound reproduction.

Specifications:

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Diaphragm: Embossed, Ultra-thin, High-compliance Mylar
  • Preamplifier: Class A, Transformerless
  • Low-Frequency Filter: Switchable
  • Attenuation Pad: 15dB
  • Frequency Response: Extended
  • Self-Noise: Very Low
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 87 dB
  • Connector Type: XLR

Key Features

Cardioid polar pattern

Low frequency filter virtually eliminates background noise

Utilizes an embossed, ultra-thin, high-compliance Mylar diaphragm

Shure-quality construction and pop protection

15dB switches pad for very high input SPL sources

Specifications

Microphone Type
Condenser Studio Microphone
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Diaphragm Type
Embossed, ultra-thin, high-compliance Mylar
Features
Low frequency filter, 15dB switchable pad
Protection
Pop protection
Construction
Shure-quality

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Condenser capsule delivers detailed, studio-quality audio with excellent high-frequency response
  • Ideal for controlled studio environments where clarity and nuance matter most
  • XLR connection provides professional-grade signal quality and compatibility with any audio interface
  • Shure's legendary reliability and build quality trusted by professionals worldwide

👎 Cons

  • Requires an audio interface or mixer with phantom power — not a simple plug-and-play setup
  • Condenser mics are more sensitive to background noise and room acoustics than dynamic alternatives
  • More fragile than dynamic microphones — requires careful handling and storage

Frequently Asked Questions

This microphone uses a cardioid polar pattern, which captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This is the most common pattern for vocals and solo instruments.
Yes. As a condenser microphone with an XLR connection, it requires 48V phantom power, which is supplied by virtually all audio interfaces and mixers.
This microphone is designed primarily for vocal recording — podcasting, voice-over, singing, and spoken word. Its condenser element captures the detail and nuance in the human voice.
You'll need an audio interface or mixer with 48V phantom power, an XLR cable, and recording software. A shock mount and pop filter are recommended but may need to be purchased separately.
Shure has been building professional microphones since 1925 and is one of the most trusted names in the audio industry, used in studios, live venues, and broadcast facilities worldwide.