If you are a performer that uses and maybe even loves microphones, there is no question that you have at one time or more held a Shure microphone in your hand. Established in 1925 and celebrating their 100th anniversary, Shure has been a technology leader and innovator whose products have set the industry standard and become synonymous with superior quality, reliability, and affordability for generations of people. With the time-tested technology of the venerable industry standard Shure SM58 dating all the way back to 1966, it makes sense that the lessons learned since this time would evolve to a much higher performance microphone.
Shure’s new premier live performance microphone is the KSM11. A cardioid condenser of the highest quality, this vocal microphone sets the standard from the designed in America manufacturer that is the de facto standard for nearly every application. Comparing this to dynamic live performance microphones, it’s immediately apparent that the KSM11 has a power, presence, and clarity that is beyond the ordinary.
Developed with and working in conjunction with artists and mixers from varied live performance genres, Shure set out to make their finest live mic. Designed to have a natural sound and a fullness that requires little to no EQ, the KSM11 features a proprietary condenser cartridge utilizing a 3/4” gold diaphragm and premium electronics for 130dB dynamic range with maximum SPL level of 149dB. These impressive specs are capped with a tight cardioid polar pattern intended to reduce off-axis sound pickup. The goal is to keep as little extraneous sound from entering your vocal mic as possible. Additional thought was put into feedback resistance when “cupping” the mic, holding it by the capsule as many performers often do. Shure engineers designed the KSM11’s performance to be even no matter where the hands holding the mic are.
Live microphones, no matter how expensive, can end up taking a lot of abuse. With that in mind, the KSM11 features a dent-resistant hardened steel grille with 3-stage plosive reduction pop filtering and an “advanced suspended isolation system for virtually zero handling noise.”
Interestingly and unique, the Shure KSM11 began as a wireless version. Introduced in April 2022 to be the first Shure wireless capsule built specifically for digital wireless systems, a wired XLR version was subsequently released at NAMM in January 2025, extending the same premium technology to both wireless and wired applications.
If you are looking for the absolute best American-designed live vocal microphone, the Shure KSM11 is it. It’s a significant upgrade over many standard handheld mics, with a smooth, clear high-end, and a fuller low-end, making it ideal for both live and broadcast applications where vocal clarity and consistency are crucial. Known for its ability to reproduce a performance “in true form” and its high-performance characteristics, it is a top choice for performers who want the best live vocal reproduction. Requires +48-volt Phantom Power. Available in black and nickel. $879 wired version.
