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MODEL WM98 AND SM98A MINIATURE CONDENSER MICROPHONES
MICROPHONE
POLAR
MODIFIER
SWIVEL
ADAPTER
PREAMPLIFIER
GENERAL
Shure Models WM98 and SM98A are miniature electret con-
denser microphones with a unidirectional (cardioid) pickup pat-
tern. A smooth wide frequency response from 40 to 20,000 Hz
makes the microphones well suited for musical instrument pick-
up. The WM98 is for wireless use; the SM98A is for wired applica-
tions. Both models feature the 98 microphone element.
The cardioid polar response of the 98 discriminates against
sounds coming from the rear, permitting higher gain before feed-
back in sound reinforcement applications. With its true cardioid
pattern extending to 20,000 Hz, the microphone can often be
used for pickup of a particular instrument in an ensemble or or-
chestra.
When still stronger rejection of off-axis pickup is required, the
A98SPM Supercardioid Polar Modifier should be used. This de-
vice changes the pickup pattern from cardioid to supercardioid
with minimal change of on-axis microphone frequency response.
With the A98SPM, the 98 becomes the smallest multi-pattern mi-
crophone available, eliminating the need for costly multiple cap-
sules. The A98SPM is supplied with the SM98A.
A very high maximum sound pressure level allows use of the
98 with all acoustic instruments including drum kits and other per-
cussion as well as brass, reed, wind, string, and keyboard instru-
ments. The 98 can also be used with amplified guitars and key-
boards.
The WM98 can be connected directly to a Shure wireless trans-
mitter using the supplied cable; other transmitters must be
checked for proper pin configuration, condenser microphone
power supply, and connector type.
TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE
FIGURE FIGURE 3
The WM98 is supplied with a versatile shock–mount swivel
adapter for mounting on a standard 5/8”–27 thread, a 1.47 m (5
ft) cable with miniature 3– and 4–pin connectors (Switchcraft TA3
and TA4 types), and an acoustic foam windscreen to minimize
wind noise in outdoor applications and from air–moving equip-
ment.
The Shure ILP-1, low-distortion high-clipping-level, phantom–
powered preamplifier, is furnished with the SM98A microphone.
Additional included accessories are: a windscreen for use with
the microphone alone, and a windscreen for use with the
A98SPM, a shock-mount swivel adapter and a detachable 4.6 m
(15 ft) cable with Switchcraft “Tini Q–G” connectors.
The ILP-1 preamplifier provides switchable gain of 0 or +10 dB
and switch-selectable Flat or Low-Cut response to suit pickup for
various instruments. The Low-Cut position is also useful to filter
out low-frequency noise from such sources as wind noise or air
conditioner or heater fans. The ILP-1 can be powered by any 11–
to 52–volt dc phantom supply from sound reinforcement, record-
ing, or broadcast equipment.
Optional accessories, designed exclusively for use with the
WM98 and SM98A, are available. These include the following:
• A98MK Drum Kit, with gooseneck holder and clamp for
mounting the microphone directly on most drums.
• A98KCS Horn Mount, a shock-mounted clamp designed es-
pecially for securely mounting the 98 on a horn, wind, or reed
instrument.
Microphone Features:
• Smooth, wide frequency response for accurate sound repro-
duction across the entire audio spectrum
• Symmetrical cardioid pattern, uniform with frequency to 20
kHz
• Very high sound pressure level capability
• Very low distortion and high output clipping level
• Low susceptibility to RFI, electrostatic and electromagnetic
hum
• Smallest multi-pattern microphone available – without the
need for multiple capsules
• Rugged construction for outstanding reliability
• Cable detachable at both microphone and transmitter
(WM98) or preamplifier (SM98A)
• Usable over very wide range of temperature and humidity
• Supplied with unique shock-mount swivel adapter for mount-
ing on conventional microphone stands or goosenecks
• Optional accessories to increase microphone versatility
TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE – SM98A WITH
A98SPM POLAR MODIFIER INSTALLED
FIGURE FIGURE 4
27A2738 (RI)
E1998, Shure Brothers Incorporated
Printed in U.S.A.
Shure Brothers Incorporated
222 Hartrey Avenue
Evanston IL 60202-3696 U.S.A.
Model WM98 and SM98A User’s Guide