Overview
The Shure SM35-XLR is a performance headset condenser microphone designed for vocalists, instrumentalists, presenters, and active performers who need hands-free microphone operation. Its lightweight wireframe headset, flexible gooseneck boom, and cardioid pickup pattern help maintain consistent microphone positioning while reducing unwanted off-axis sound. The SM35-XLR version includes an inline preamp for connection to compatible wired XLR audio equipment.
Key Features
- Electret Condenser Capsule: Designed for clear vocal reproduction in live performance and speech applications.
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern: Focuses on sound from the front of the microphone to help reduce feedback and unwanted surrounding sound.
- Flexible Gooseneck: Allows the microphone boom to be positioned close to the performer's mouth.
- Lightweight Headset Design: Wireframe construction supports comfortable wear during extended performances.
- Inline XLR Preamp: Provides a wired connection to compatible audio mixers and equipment.
- Snap-Fit Windscreens: Help reduce plosive, breath, and wind noise.
- Wide Frequency Response: Rated from 40 Hz to 20 kHz for vocal and performance applications.
Audio Performance
The SM35-XLR uses a unidirectional cardioid condenser capsule and is designed for live stages, vocal performance, and multi-instrumentalist applications. Its pickup pattern helps limit sound arriving from the sides and rear, supporting clearer vocal capture in environments where monitor feedback and sound bleed are concerns.
Connectivity and Power
The SM35-XLR includes an inline preamp for wired operation through a three-pin XLR connector. The XLR configuration requires compatible phantom power, specified by Shure as 12–52 V DC. Check the connected mixer or audio interface's phantom-power capability before use.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Brand | Shure |
| Part Number / MPN | SM35-XLR |
| Product Type | Headset Condenser Microphone |
| Series | SM35 |
| Microphone Type | Electret Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 40 Hz–20 kHz |
| Output Impedance | 2,400 ohms (published specification for the RPM626 preamp configuration) |
| Maximum SPL | 153 dB SPL (published specification for the RPM626 preamp configuration) |
| Dynamic Range | 114 dB (published specification for the RPM626 preamp configuration) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 55 dB (published specification for the RPM626 preamp configuration) |
| Connector | Three-pin XLR with inline preamp |
| Power Requirement | 12–52 V DC phantom power for XLR version |
| Cable Length | 1.1 m (approximately 45 in.) |
| Color | Black |
| Net Weight | 72 g (2.53 oz.; manufacturer-listed SM35 microphone specification) |
| Dimensions | Not verified by the manufacturer |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shure SM35-XLR used for?
It is designed for hands-free vocal performance, live music, multi-instrumentalist use, and speech applications where a headset microphone is preferred.
Does the SM35-XLR connect directly to an audio mixer?
It has an inline preamp and an XLR output for compatible wired audio equipment. Check that the connected equipment provides the required phantom power.
Is the SM35-XLR a wireless microphone?
No. The SM35-XLR is the wired XLR version. The related SM35-TQG model uses a TA4F connector for compatible Shure wireless bodypack transmitters.
What is its pickup pattern?
It uses a cardioid, unidirectional pickup pattern designed to capture sound from the front while reducing off-axis sound and helping control feedback.
What frequency range does it support?
The published frequency response is 40 Hz to 20 kHz.
DC Supplies Product Note
Before ordering, verify that the wired XLR configuration matches your audio equipment. Do not confuse the SM35-XLR with the SM35-TQG wireless-bodypack version, as their connectors and power requirements differ.
