Understanding KSM8 and Nexadyne NXN8: Differences and Unique Features | Shure

Are you ready to dive into the unique features of the KSM8 and NXN8 microphones? Join Yuri Lysoivanov as he breaks down what makes these mics stand out in the world of dynamic microphones.
- The innovative design of the KSM8's Dualdyne, featuring the world's first handheld dual diaphragm dynamic microphone
- The reverse side entry airflow system in the KSM8 for natural sound and controlled proximity effect
- Advantages of the KSM8's linear polar response, ensuring consistent sound quality even off-axis
- The groundbreaking Revonic™ transducer technology in the NXN8 with two active motors for reduced handling noise
- How the NXN8's acoustic signal processing delivers unparalleled clarity and consistent cardioid or supercardioid response
Check out Nexadyne shu.re/4c7yU2x
Explore the KSM8 shu.re/3Vb7WjF

[@geoffroyvilbert]

Any comment regarding the Nexadyne 8S especially for female vocals? I understand it works well for live session, what about home studio recording? Last question if I may ;-) compared to the 87A, is it better or worst for studio recording?

[@rafaelunplugged]

Any thoughts about Nexadyne vs KSM9? I currently gig with the KSM8 and wanted to add the KSM9 but this dropped

[@shurecreators]

Hi, Yuri here. It's hard to directly compare since the NXN8 is a dynamic mic and the KSM9 is a condenser mic. Depending on how you gig, you might see some feedback when using a condenser mic like the KSM9 (for example with a lot of wedges and side fills) that you would minimize by the NXN8. However the KSM9 has a wider frequency response as well and it has a switch to select it to be either supercardioid or cardioid. So your mic choice should really depend on what you need for your voice and what you're trying to achieve live.

[@goaway2174]

I just reviewed your polar charts for the KSM8 and am confused, Benefit number 3: linear polar response is not what is depicted. There are significant frequency dependent off axis variations: 9kHz @ 60 degrees, 2.5kHz @ 90 degrees, 6.4kHz @ 30, 60, & 90 degrees. It doesn’t appear significantly better than the Nexadyne performance. It does have a flatter frequency response up to 10 kHz so should sound more natural with less EQ required. Might be better for vocal recording but does lack air frequencies.

[@shurecreators]

Hi, Yuri here. Thanks so much for the response. When we say linear off-axis response, what's happening is that when unwanted sound enters off-axis, it often affects the phase coherency and as a result, the quality of the direct sound. The design of the KSM8 mitigates that quite a bit, so when unwanted sound comes in off-axis, it stays more phase coherent and the source sound remains high quality, even in the presence of off-axis bleed.
The NXN8 actually has a pretty linear off-axis polar response as well, but it also has great off-axis rejection.

[@goaway2174]

@@shurecreators Thanks Yuri for the clarification! So If I understand, with improved phase coherence there is less constructive/destructive interference from off axis sound so the direct capture is less impacted? I like the KSM8 but may have to get a KXN8 to try out. Certainly the polar pattern looks exceptional!