Shure 55SH Series II Unidyne Vocal Microphone:
An instant success, the original Unidyne set a new standard of high quality audio combined with discrimination against unwanted sounds. True to Bauer’s design, the directional response was more predictable and better behaved than its predecessors, so it offered a new ability to control feedback and reduce ambient noise pickup. In addition, its size was small compared to competitive offerings, making it popular with singers, entertainers, and public speakers.
During the years between 1939 and 1946, the Unidyne changed very little. Variations of the original design included the
1940 introduction of a separate broadcast version (Model 555), which had an improved vibrational isolation mount. A radio station call letter plate that t on thetop of the microphone was sold separately as an accessory.
By 1947, the broadcast version had become Model 556, and the three 55 models with different impedances were replaced with one single model, equipped with a multi-impedance selector switch located under the case at the
rear. Changes were in the of ng at the end of the decade; however, as Shure prepared to deliver yet another breakthrough.
In the 1950s, Shure created a print ad for trade publications that illustrated the industry dominance that the Unidyne held around the globe. It was titled “Photographed With More Celebrities the World Over...Than Any Other Microphone.” The subhead read “The Microphone That Needs No Name.” The ad featured a large photo of the Unidyne, but neither the name nor model of the microphone appeared at all. The objective of this ad was to demonstrate how popular the Unidyne had become. It was a microphone that needed no name or introduction. It was recognized everywhere.
The Shure 55SH Series II is a Unidyne Vocal Microphone with a unidirectional cardioid polar pickup pattern that minimizes sound capture from the rear and provides optimum vocal pickup from the front.
The Shure 55SH Series II features a unidirectional cardioid polar pickup pattern meaning it can be used in close proximity to loudspeakers and in other adverse acoustic conditions without creating feedback problems unlike conventional omnidirectional microphones.
The 55SH Series II has a unique look and feel thanks to its vintage design coupled with signature satin chrome-plated die-cast casing. Modern acoustic components ensure the 55SH meets today's performance standards, with excellent vocal pickup and Shure presence peak.
Features/Specifications:
- Satin Chrome-Plated Die-Cast Casing
- Unidirectional Cardioid Polar Pickup
- Type: Dynamic
- Frequency response: 50 to 15,000Hz
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid (unidirectional), uniform with frequency, symmetrical about axis
- Impedance: Microphone rating impedance is 150Ωs (270Ωs actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated at 75 to 300Ωs
- Sensitivity (at 1,000Hz): Open Circuit Voltage: -58.0dBV/Pa (1.3 mV); 1 Pascal=94dB SPL
- Polarity: Positive pressure on the diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3 of the output connector
- Net Weight: 22 oz. (624g)
Sleek in design with a futuristic look, the Shure 55SH Unidyne Series came to symbolize the word “microphone.” Following its debut in the 1939 catalog.
The Shure 55SH Unidyne Series brought professional and public recognition rarely attained by any product.
