AES 2009: New Tech from Shure
The Shure booth at AES this year is pretty big. They’re showing off pretty much everything their known for: their condenser microphones, their wireless systems, and even their headphones.
On Friday Shure announced a new evolution in their DJ headphone line: the SRH570DJ. They’re $149 retail which means you’ll be able to get it slightly cheaper on the street. They ship in November. Let’s take a look at some of the features:
- Custom 50mm drivers tuned to deliver high-output bass with extended highs
- 3,000 mW maximum input power allows for optimized connectivity to DJ mixers
- Adjustable, collapsible headband with 90-degree swivel ear cups for comfort and easy one-ear placement
- Closed-back, circumaural design rests comfortably over the ears and reduces background noise in noisy club environments
- Bayonet Clip securely locks cable into ear cup
- Replaceable ear cup pads ensure long product life
- 3m (10ft) coiled detachable cable provides plenty of length and easy storage
- Carrying bag protects headphones when on-the-go or not in use
- Legendary Shure quality to withstand the rigors of everyday use
Next on Shure’s list is their two new ribbon condenser microphones: the KSM353 and KSM313. Shure apparently produced ribbon mics from the 50s thru the 80s and are jumping back in the market this year.
These new ribbon mics come from Shure’s acquisition of popular ribbon mic enthusiasts Crowley and Tripp. In fact, the KSM353 and KSM313 are literally just C+T’s El Diablo and Naked Eye packaged in a Shure body. So if you’re a fan of any of C+T’s stuff, you should be more than happy with the new line of Shure microphones.
The 353 is $2,695 retail while the 313 is $1,2950. Both are available now. Here’s a short feature list:
- Revolutionary RoselliteTM ribbon material: Provides superior fidelity in extremely high sound pressure environments.
- 30 – 15,000 Hz frequency response: Ideal for capturing vocals, acoustic, and amplified instruments.
- Bidirectional polar pattern: Remains uniform throughout the frequency range.
- Custom-wound double-shielded transformer: Provides high output with minimum RF interference.
- Mahogany storage case: Protects the microphone while not in use.
- ‘Monocle’ swivel stand mount (KSM313 only): Accommodates a variety of microphone orientations.
- Spring-loaded suspension shock mount (KSM353 only): Accommodates a variety of microphone orientations and provides isolation from mechanical vibration.
More after the jump…
Last but not least is Shure’s line of “pro” headphones. Sounds like they’re meant more for reference mixing/monitoring and less about DJing.
The SRH840, SRH440, and SRH240 join Shure’s lineup of pro/DJ-specific headphones as of Friday. According to the press release, these headphones are not only made for studio applications, but are also made for your everyday iPod listening.
Each model (from the 840 and below) are different and therefore priced differently as you’ll see below:
- SRH840 Professional Monitoring Headphones – Optimized for studio recording and critical listening, the SRH840 features reference-quality frequency response, rich bass, clear mid-range, and extended highs. The model’s ergonomic fit and collapsible construction offer added comfort and portability.
- SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones – Tuned to deliver accurate audio reproduction, the SRH440 is optimized for professional audio equipment, including DJ mixers, mixing consoles, and headphone amplifiers. The adjustable headband and collapsible construction make the SRH440 ideal for recording and monitoring.
- SRH240 Professional Quality Headphones – Calibrated for connection to consumer listening devices and professional equipment such as mixing consoles, the SRH240 reproduces full bass with detailed highs.
The SRH840 retail at $199, 440 at $99, and 240 for $59. Expect to see these at your local Guitar Center soon as they’re already available.

