It’s not uncommon for musicians with home studios to record everything with a single cardioid microphone. That can lead to a frequency buildup that must be tamed in order to keep the mix from sounding muddy. It appears that Shure has recognized this and has designed its new SM4 microphone to help counter that problem.
The Shure SM4 is a large diaphragm condenser mic utilizing dual 1″ brass diaphragm capsule arranged to lower the proximity effect. Since the mic will most likely be used on vocals and by podcasters, it also has an integrated pop filter, along with ability to attach an external one as well, although good mic placement should make this unnecessary.
Since RF interference from computer equipment can also be a problem for home recordists, the SM4 also includes a woven mesh faraday cage integrated with the internal pop filter to block any unwanted interference that can ruin a recording.
What can also ruin a recording is microphone overload, which is very common in inexpensive condenser microphones. This is not likely to happen with the SM4 since it will handle exceptionally high sound pressure levels up to 140dB.
There’s not all that much you can say about microphone features because they usually don’t have many in terms of whistles and bells. The most you can expect is that it reliably gives you the sound you were expecting, and maybe surprises you with its performance every now and then. That said, Shure has been making microphones for almost a hundred years now (the company started in 1925), and has made some classics (SM57/58, SM7B, 55H, 545) that remain in use today. Plus Shure products are always well-made, so the SM4 is certainly worth a try if you’re looking for a mic for your home studio that’s built to last.
The Shure SM4 is now available for just $199, although a version with a shock mount and external pop filter goes for $269.
You can find out more here, or watch the video below.
