The Shure KSM137/SL is a professional cardioid condenser instrument microphone designed to deliver accurate, natural sound reproduction in recording studios, live sound environments, and professional broadcast applications. Featuring a precision-engineered condenser capsule, low self-noise, and exceptional high sound pressure level (SPL) handling, the KSM137/SL captures the detail and dynamics of acoustic instruments with outstanding clarity.
From acoustic guitars and piano to drum overheads, percussion, brass, and string instruments, the Shure KSM137/SL provides the flexibility needed for demanding recording and sound reinforcement applications. Its three-position attenuation switch, selectable low-frequency filter, and durable satin nickel finish make it an excellent choice for engineers and musicians seeking consistent professional performance.
Precision Cardioid Pickup for Natural Instrument Sound
The Shure KSM137/SL features a cardioid polar pattern that focuses on sound arriving from the front of the microphone while reducing unwanted pickup from the sides and rear.
This directional design helps isolate instruments, minimize background noise, and improve separation when recording multiple sound sources.
Its extended 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency response captures the subtle characteristics of acoustic instruments, including string detail, percussion transients, and the natural resonance of piano and orchestral instruments.
High SPL Handling with Three-Position Attenuation
The KSM137/SL is designed to handle both delicate acoustic passages and extremely loud instruments without sacrificing audio quality.
A built-in three-position attenuation switch provides:
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0 dB: Standard sensitivity for acoustic instruments and general recording
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–15 dB: Reduced sensitivity for louder sound sources
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–25 dB: Maximum attenuation for high-SPL applications
With its –25 dB attenuation setting, the microphone can accommodate sound pressure levels up to 170 dB SPL, making it suitable for close-miking drums, brass instruments, and other powerful sound sources.
Selectable Low-Frequency Filtering
The KSM137/SL includes a switchable low-frequency filter that helps control unwanted low-frequency energy.
This feature is particularly useful for reducing stage vibration, handling noise, proximity-effect buildup, and low-frequency rumble.
Engineers can adjust the microphone's low-frequency response to better match the instrument and recording environment without relying entirely on external equalization.
Low Self-Noise for Detailed Recordings
With a specified self-noise level of 14 dB SPL (A-weighted), the Shure KSM137/SL is suitable for capturing quieter instruments and subtle musical details.
Its condenser design provides accurate transient response, making it especially effective for acoustic guitar, strings, cymbals, piano, and percussion.
The result is a clean, natural sound that works well in both close-miking and more distant microphone placements.
Shure KSM137/SL Key Features
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Professional cardioid condenser instrument microphone
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Accurate, natural sound reproduction for studio and live applications
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Wide 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency response
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Low self-noise for detailed instrument recordings
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High SPL handling for drums, brass, and percussion
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Three-position attenuation switch: 0 dB, –15 dB, and –25 dB
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Switchable low-frequency filter for controlling rumble and bass buildup
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Cardioid pickup pattern for improved sound-source isolation
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Durable metal construction with satin nickel finish
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Standard XLR output for professional audio equipment
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Requires phantom power
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Includes microphone mounting and protective accessories
Shure KSM137/SL Technical Specifications
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Specification
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Details
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Manufacturer
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Shure
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Model
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KSM137/SL
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Microphone Type
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Condenser Instrument Microphone
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Polar Pattern
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Cardioid
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Frequency Response
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20 Hz – 20 kHz
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Sensitivity
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–37 dBV/Pa
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Self-Noise
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14 dB SPL (A-weighted)
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Maximum SPL
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Up to 170 dB SPL with –25 dB attenuation
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Attenuation Settings
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0 dB, –15 dB, –25 dB
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Low-Frequency Filter
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Switchable
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Output Connector
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3-Pin XLR
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Power Requirements
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48V Phantom Power
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Finish
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Satin Nickel
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Applications
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Studio Recording, Live Sound, Instrument Miking
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Ideal Applications
The Shure KSM137/SL is an excellent microphone for:
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Acoustic Guitar: Capturing string detail, articulation, and natural instrument resonance
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Piano: Reproducing the dynamic range and tonal character of acoustic pianos
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Drum Overheads: Capturing cymbal clarity and overall drum kit balance
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Percussion: Accurate reproduction of fast transients and detailed high-frequency content
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Brass and Woodwinds: Handling strong sound pressure levels while maintaining clarity
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String Instruments: Capturing violins, cellos, and acoustic ensembles
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Live Sound Reinforcement: Directional instrument pickup for professional stage applications
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Studio and Ensemble Recording: Natural reproduction of individual instruments and musical groups
What's Included with the Shure KSM137/SL?
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1 × Shure KSM137/SL Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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Microphone clip
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Windscreen
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Carrying case
Why Choose the Shure KSM137/SL?
The Shure KSM137/SL combines detailed condenser microphone performance with the versatility needed for a wide variety of instruments.
Its high SPL capability, adjustable attenuation, and selectable low-frequency filtering allow recording engineers and live sound professionals to adapt the microphone to different sound sources and environments.
Whether you're recording acoustic guitar in a studio or miking a drum kit onstage, the KSM137/SL delivers professional performance with reliable Shure construction.
Why Buy the Shure KSM137/SL from Audio Supply?
Audio Supply is an authorized Shure dealer, offering genuine Shure microphones and professional audio accessories for recording studios, live sound companies, houses of worship, schools, and commercial installations.
We can help you select compatible microphone stands, clips, cables, and accessories to complete your recording or sound reinforcement setup.
