The Shure WH 20 is a rugged, lightweight, dynamic neckband microphone for high-quality voice transmission. The lightweight microphone fits securely and inconspicuously even for active users such as aerobics instructors and musicians. It is suitable for any application where comfort and reliability are required.
With its cardioid characteristic, the WH20 has a greater feedback resistance and suppresses background noise and other unwanted sound sources such as air conditioners, music instruments, or speakers. With a presence boost in the vocal range, the frequency response has been carefully adjusted and a low-pass filter prevents the proximity effect typical of cardioid characteristic microphones.
The integrated elastic CROAKIES headband ensures a comfortable and secure fit. The headband, wire frame, and gooseneck are adjustable to any head size and shape. Contents of the delivery include a foam windscreen and a clothing clip.
The Shure WH20XLR is a dependable entry-level headset microphone, ideal for those who need unrestricted movement – whether performing on stage, leading a workout, or playing drums. Designed for a secure and stable fit, it's well-suited for drummers, guitarists, fitness instructors, and other active performers who require consistent, hands-free vocal amplification. As one of the few dynamic neckband microphones, the WH20XLR stands out for its durability and adjustable fit, ensuring long-lasting comfort. Its XLR connection provides seamless compatibility with most mixers, speakers, and mobile sound systems without requiring an adapter. With a directional pickup pattern, it effectively reduces background noise and minimises feedback, making it a reliable choice for demanding, high-energy environments.
The WH20XLR features a cardioid pickup pattern, which captures speech directly from the front while reducing background noise, such as loud music, drum sounds, or ambient noise during workout sessions. With a frequency range beginning at 50Hz (and going up to 15kHz), it's better than many competitors for male voices. The carefully shaped frequency response includes a voice-frequency presence peak and a low-frequency roll-off to compensate for the proximity effect inherent in cardioid mics during close-talk operation. The included foam windshield not only reduces wind noise but also offers protection against moisture. Weighing just 63 grams, the headset is lightweight and comfortable to wear, with a wide elastic headband ensuring a secure fit. For added convenience, the included fastening clip allows the cable to be secured to clothing behind the neck, ensuring it stays neatly in place during performances.
The WH20XLR is a great choice for performers and speakers who need their voice to stand out while keeping costs down. Drummers, bassists, and guitarists often face loud stage environments, where instruments like snare drums and hi-hats create intense sound pressure, making vocal clarity a challenge. Similarly, fitness instructors need their voices to cut through both background music and ambient noise like air conditioning. A reliable headset that stays in place and adapts to movement is essential. With its directional cardioid pattern, the WH20XLR primarily captures speech from the front while minimising unwanted noise. As a dynamic microphone, it also effectively reduces feedback. For those looking for added vocal clarity, slightly boosting the treble on the mixer enhances brightness and detail.
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 WH20XLR offers a comfortable and adjustable fit for various head shapes. The flexible wireframe neckband can be gently shaped to ensure a secure fit, while the earpieces can be adjusted for extra stability. The microphone boom allows for precise positioning: Ideal placement is in front of the righthand corner of the mouth. For optimal sound capture, the silver side of the microphone should face inward, maintaining a distance of approximately 2.5cm from the mouth. For those with a strong voice or a desire to reduce low frequencies, positioning the mic slightly to the side, just below the corner of the mouth, can help balance the sound. Both the foam windshield and neckband are detachable and can be cleaned with mild soapy water to remove dirt and sweat.