Set consists of:
The affordably-priced Shure PGA Studiokit 4 is the perfect toolkit for all kinds of recording situations. This set includes four of Shure's PG Alta microphones with matching accessories, among which are four 4.6m XLR cables. All of the microphones have a cardioid polar pattern, so they record sound directionally. The two small-diaphragm PGA181 condenser microphones in this set are ideal for recording vocals and a variety of acoustic instruments, while the dynamic PGA57 is more suitable for amplifiers or brass instruments. And if it's a bassdrum being recorded, then the PGA52 is the best choice, capable as it is of recording low frequencies clearly and distinctly. This set therefore contains the right combination of microphones for ensuring successful recording sessions every time.
The two Shure PGA181 mics in the PGA Studiokit 4 record a frequency range between 50Hz and 20kHz, and are distinguished by their warm sound, as well as excellent brightness in the high frequencies. As they are condenser microphones, they require a 48V phantom power supply, which can be provided through a mixing desk or an audio interface. The Shure PGA57 is inspired – as one might guess from its name – by the SM57 and, while it is significantly less pricey, it still captures all the power of the sound. The frequency range of this microphone starts at 70Hz and goes up to 15kHz. The robust PGA52 features an integrated mount with a swivel joint, so it can be precisely positioned to record a bassdrum's sweet spot.
The Shure PGA Studiokit 4 is aimed at musicians, producers, and sound engineers who are looking for a full complement of microphones for a variety of applications. Besides recording one instrument with each microphone, all four microphones can be used for a perfect recording of a full drum kit: Using the PGA52 for the bass drum, the PGA57 can be placed on the snare, and the two PGA181s used as overheads for recording toms and cymbals. To give the toms more power in the mix, additional microphones can be added to record them directly. All microphones in this set are black, meaning they won't attract a lot of attention at live gigs. Alongside the four mics and XLR cables, the set also includes three durable mic clips, as well as a practical travel case.
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 four microphones in this set are suited to a wide range of studio recordings, as well as great for sound amplification at live events. Sound engineers can pick up the sound of an acoustic duo or a drummer with this comprehensive, flexible set, while musicians can record complete songs. Besides recording single instruments, for example acoustic pianos or guitars, the two Shure PGA181, with their lollipop design, are perfect for recording small groups of instruments – a string quartet, for instance. Thanks to their maximum sound pressure levels of 138dB, dynamic vocals with loud and quiet passages can be recorded clearly and cleanly. The Shure PGA52 bass drum microphone is best used for signals characterised by low frequencies, as it only records frequencies between 50Hz and 12kHz.