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Shure - Sound Extraordinary
Sound is our business. Good sound is fine for some people. But at Shure, we’re only interested in delivering sound experiences that immerse and insp…
Shure History
Shure History
From a humble start as a radio parts wholesaler in 1925 Shure has grown to become a global leader in audio electronics. Shure products have been everywhere and seen it all!
Learn more about the most important milestones in our company's history.
The 1920's
The 1920's
Sidney N. Shure
1925
Shure Radio Company is founded on April 25 by Sidney N. Shure as a one-man company selling radio component kits before factory-built radio sets were marketed. Within three years Shure would grow to more than 75 employees.
1929
The Great Depression grips the United States. The market for radio component kits declines when factory-built radios are launched. Shure becomes the exclusive distributor for a small microphone manufacturer.
The 1930'S
The 1930'S
The Model 55 Unidyne, Classic advertisement
1939
The Model 55 Unidyne is the first single-element unidirectional microphone. Its performance qualities and distinctive design ultimately make it “the most recognised microphone in the world.”
Historic figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy or Martin Luther King use the microphone to proclaim their messages, and the 55 Unidyne becomes an integral accessory for performers like Elvis Presley.
To this day its unmistakable, iconic form symbolises the spirit of a whole generation.
Shure Classic Microphones Medley, 1930s
1931
Shure begins with the development of its own microphone under the direction of a young engineer named Ralph Glover.
1932
With the introduction of the Model 33N Two-Button Carbon Microphone, Shure becomes one of only four U.S. microphone manufacturers. It is the first lightweight, high-performance product in a market dominated by large, costly devices.
1933
Shure began supplying replacement crystal pickups for phonograph cartridges to various manufacturers.
Shure unveils its first condenser microphone - the Model 40D.
1936
Shure receives the first patent for a stylish and practical suspension support system for microphones.
The 1940's
The 1940's
1946 Shure becomes the largest manufacturer of phonograph cartridges in the U.S.
1942
Shure becomes supplier of microphones for United States armed forces in World War II and adopts the strict military standards (MILSPEC) as its quality control system for all Shure microphones. These standards have been used to test Shure products ever since.
1946
Shure becomes the largest manufacturer of phonograph cartridges in the U.S.
1948
Shure introduces the 900MG, the first phonograph cartridge capable of playing both long-playing (LP) and 78 rpm (revolutions per minute) records.
The 1950's
The 1950's
1951
The Model 55S is introduced. The mic is often referred to as the 'Elvis Mic' due to its frequent use by Elvis Presley and is the microphone depicted with Elvis on the commemorative Elvis stamp issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1993.
1952
Shure introduces its first ribbon microphone, the Model 300.
1953
The first wireless microphone system for performers, the Vagabond, is introduced. Powered by two hearing aid batteries, the system transmits within a “performance circle” of approximately 700 square feet.
Shure Vagabond: First wireless microphone for performers
1954
Shure's M12 Dynetic Phono Reproducer tonearm and cartridge set becomes an industry standard with a tracking force of only one gram.
1958
The M3D Phonograph Cartridge is the world’s first cartridge to successfully meet performance requirements of stereo recording.
1959
Shure introduces the Unidyne III Model 545, the predecessor to the SM57. It is the first high-quality unidirectional microphone that is used by speaking into the end (end-firing) rather than the side of the microphone.
The 1960's
The 1960's
Shure V15 CLassic Advertisement
1964
The V-15 Stereo Dynetic Cartridge is hailed as “one of the finest phonograph cartridges ever made.” It features a 15-degree vertical tracking angle and a symmetrical, bi-radial elliptical stylus.
1965
Shure introduces the SM57 Dynamic Microphone (“SM” for “Studio Microphone”). It's rugged and reliable with a clean, natural sound. It will become one of the most popular instrument mics ever plus it continues to be the U.S. President’s lectern microphone today, as it has been for every President since Lyndon B. Johnson.
1966
The Shure SM58 is launched and adopted by rock-and-roll musicians like 'The Who' and 'The Rolling Stones', who appreciate its unique combination of reliability and sound quality. It quickly becomes the standard for live performance vocals. The SM58 remains the most popular vocal microphone in the world today.
SM57
Introduced 1965, the SM57 continues to be one of the most popular instrument mics ever.
SM58
Introduced 1966, the SM58 remains the most popular vocal microphone in the world today.
History of the SM58
There are a few things that diehard Shure history buffs know about the SM58. Learn more about the history of the legendary SM58!
1967
Shure introduces the Vocal Master - the first complete portable PA system. The Vocal Master system consists of a combination of control consoles, speakers, amplifiers, mixers, and microphones. Multiple components and systems could be combined to expand the Vocal Master system to also to be used for larger sound reinforcement applications
Eddie Kramer uses three Shure M67 mixers to capture the now legendary performances at Woodstock.
The 1970's
The 1970's
1976
The world’s smallest dynamic lavalier microphone, the SM11 is launched.
1978
The SM81 is the first condenser microphone to combine studio quality sound reproduction with the ruggedness and reliability needed for live performances.
SM81
First condenser mic to combine studio quality sound reproduction with the ruggedness and reliability needed for live performancce.
SM11
The Shure SM11 is a miniature dynamic lavalier microphone. It has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, and its frequency response is optimized for laval
The 1980's
The 1980's
1982
Michael Jackson’s vocals on “Thriller”, the best-selling album of all times, are recorded with a Shure SM7.
1983
The FP31 Mixer is ”the most innovative field production mixer of its time.” Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it can easily attach to a Betacam, providing news crews with even greater mobility.
The Automatic Microphone System (AMS) is the first automatic, high-quality mixer system using directional gating for installations utilising multiple microphones.
1984
The SM91 is the first unidirectional boundary-effect microphone. Originally built to mic pianos, it is widely used to capture the "attack" of kick-drums today.
Institutions like NASA, the Pentagon and major radio stations use the Shure ST6000 Teleconferencing System.
1985
A patented Home Theater Sound System, the HTS5000, offers revolutionary surround sound capabilities via an innovative, top-rated decoder.
1989
Beta 58 and Beta 57 Microphones, with their supercardioid polar pattern and high output level, provide unprecedented gain before feedback on concert stages all over the world.
SM7B
Michael Jackson’s vocals on “Thriller”, the best-selling album of all times, are recorded with a Shure SM7.
Beta 58A
Unprecedented gain before feedback on concert stages by supercardioid polar pattern and high output level
Beta 57A
Unprecedented gain before feedback on concert stages by supercardioid polar pattern and high output level
The 1990's
The 1990's
Rose L. Shure, Chairman of the Board
1990
Shure enters the wireless microphone market with the L Series. Within a decade, Shure shall dominate the wireless product category worldwide.
1991
The Shure European Headquarters is opened in Heilbronn, Germany. Shure Europe GmbH provides sales, service, and support to Distribution Centres in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
1993
Shure becomes the Official Technical Partner of the famous Montreux Jazz Festival for the first time. A fruitful partnership that continues until today.
1995
Sidney N. Shure dies at the age of 93. Rose L. Shure is elected Chairman of the Board of Directors.
1996
Shure markets its first digital signal processing (DSP) product, the DFR11EQ Digital Feedback Reducer.
Shure launches its first automatic mixer - the SCM810. This eight-channel automatic mixer features the Shure patented IntelliMix®, which activates only microphones being addressed, minimizing poor audio caused by multiple open microphones.
1997
Shure enters the personal in-ear monitoring system category with the introduction of the PSM 600.
1999
Shure Asia Limited is opened in Hong Kong to serve distributors throughout Asia and the Pacific Rim.
Shure introduces the first mic in the KSM Series of premium recording microphones, the KSM32 which becomes Jay Leno’s desk microphone at The Tonight Show.
Shure Brothers Incorporated is officially renamed Shure Incorporated.
Shure introduces Microflex, a series of microphones for installed audio applications.
Microflex
Microphones for installed audio applications.
KSM32
Premium Recording Microphone
1999: Shure introduces the KSM32 which becomes Jay Leno’s desk microphone at The Tonight Show.
The 21st Century
The 21st Century
2002
Shure establishes Shure Distribution GmbH, a subsidiary of Shure Europe GmbH, being responsible for all sales and marketing aspects throughout Germany.
Shure is headline sponsor of the Shure Montreux Jazz Voice Competition. Founded to support talented young vocalists internationally the sponsorship continues until today.
Shure Office in Niles
2003
Shure acquires its long-time UK Distribution Center, HW International, which is renamed Shure Distribution UK.
After 47 years in Evanston, Illinois, Shure moves into new corporate headquarters in Niles, Illinois.
Shure Grammy
Shure is awarded the 2003 Technical GRAMMY by the National Academy of the Recording Arts and Sciences®, which is presented by the Recording Academy to individuals and/or companies that have made outstanding contributions of technical significance to the recording industry.
2004
The SM57, introduced in 1965, is inducted into the TECnology Hall of Fame. The Foundation for Excellence in Audio established the Hall of Fame to honour and recognise audio products and innovations that have made a significant contribution to the advancement of audio technology.
2005
Shure opens two new facilities in China: a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Suzhou, and a sales and marketing office in Shanghai.
To address the needs of the most demanding, large-scale wireless applications, Shure introduces its UHF-R Wireless System.
2006
Shure opens a sales and marketing office in Tokyo, Japan.
A new innovation in Personal Listening is achieved with the triple-driver E500 Sound Isolating Earphones.
Shure introduces KSM9, the first premium handheld condenser microphone to feature switchable cardioid and supercardioid polar pattterns, and bring studio quality sound to live performances.
2007
The next level of the award-winning Shure E Series, the SE Sound Isolating Earphones are introduced. They offer new sound signatures, styles, modularity, and improved ergonomics. Shure also releases the Music Phone Adapter (MPA), a sleek accessory that converts the new earphones into a stereo headset for mobile phones.
Due to the efforts of long-time Shure Distributor Giveon Electronics, Ltd., the SM58 was featured on a postage stamp in Israel to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the legendary product.
2008
The 55 Unidyne, introduced in 1939, is inducted into the TECnology Hall of Fame. The Foundation for Excellence in Audio established the Hall of Fame to honour and recognise audio products and innovations that have made a significant contribution to the advancement of audio technology.
Shure’s SM58, SM57, Beta 57, Beta 87, and KSM9 Microphones are featured in the new Rock Band2 video game.
UHF-R
To address the needs of the most demanding, large-scale wireless applications, Shure introduces its UHF-R Wireless System.
KSM9
The first premium handheld condenser microphone to feature switchable cardioid and supercardioid polar pattterns.
2009
Shure acquires the studio microphone manufacturer Crowley & Tripp and launches two premium ribbon microphones, KSM313 and KSM353.
PG42USB and PG27USB Microphones are launched. Both microphones are complete solutions for all PC & MAC recording enthusiasts and guarantee “plug and play” with Shure quality. Additionally, the X2u XLR-to-USB signal adapter begins shipping.
Shure adds a new product category to its product portfolio: the SRH Headphone series marks Shure’s entry into the headphone market.
2010
Shure forms a new subsidiary in the Netherlands
Shure adds the new KSM42 and KSM44A to its line of KSM microphones. The new additions deliver world-class sound reproduction from exquisite electro-acoustical design and technology.
SRH Headphones
X2u
XLR-to-USB signal adapter
PG27USB
"Plug and play” with Shure quality for all PC & MAC recording enthusiasts
PG42USB
“Plug and play” with Shure quality for all PC & MAC recording enthusiasts
KSM42
KSM44A
2011
Shure completes the acquisition of Informationsteknik, one of the world’s leading suppliers of conferencing and audio/visual systems and equipment.
Shure previews the Axient wireless management network at the NAMM trade show in Anaheim, California, an innovative wireless solution which detects interference and automatically changes frequencies.
Shure Office in Eppingen
Shure EMEA opens its new headquaters in Eppingen, Germany.
Shure’s EMC laboratory (RF chamber) was accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.
Shure introduces an innovative new shock mount for its KSM353 ribbon microphone that uses advanced materials and design to deliver excellent isolation with a refreshing dose of style.
2012
Shure launches ULX-D Digital Wireless, offering uncompromising 24-bit digital audio clarity and extremely efficient RF performance with single, dual, and quad channel receivers for any size professional sound reinforcement application. This line of products offered DANTE digital audio networking technology for the first time in a Shure product.
Iconic artists use Shure products throughout the 54th Annual GRAMMY Awards telecast, including Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, Coldplay, The Beach Boys, Taylor Swift, and Sir Paul McCartney.
Axient wireless microphones are widely used by a galaxy of headline stars at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies during the 2012 Summer Games.
Shure launches its line of Centraverse Installed Sound Microphones, an economical complement to its existing Microflex series for the sound contracting market.
The S.N. Shure Theater in the Corporate Headquarters was presented the Interior Architecture Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects.
Associates of Shure Netherlands moved to a new office in Culemborg.
2013
Shure begins distributing Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS) conferencing and discussion systems.
VP83 and VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mount Condenser Microphones begin shipping.
Shure introduces the SE846 Sound Isolating™ Earphones - the first earphone with Quad High Definition MicroDrivers and a True Subwoofer.
With intelligent rechargeable transmitters and comprehensive remote control software, Microflex Wireless is available for board rooms and conferencing environments.
IEEE Engineering Grammy 2014
2014
The Model 55 Unidyne Microphone received the IEEE Milestone Award from the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
Shure opens a new office in Miami, expanding the Company’s global presence and broadening reach throughout the Americas.
GLXD6 is launched. Shure’s first wireless receiver in guitar pedal format, delivering continuous interference monitoring in a standard pedal board.
For the third consecutive year, all of the artists and bands who performed using in-ear monitors during the GRAMMY® Awards used the Shure PSM®1000 Personal Monitor System - From Imagine Dragons to Lorde to John Legend to Paul McCartney.
President and CEO Sandy LaMantia
2015
Shure introduces MOTIV, a series of digital microphones, specifically designed for highly portable, plug-and-play audio capture through direct connection to any Apple iOS, Mac or PC device.
Shure EMEA takes over the exclusive distribution for RF Venue, a U.S. manufacturer of innovative technologies that improve the performance of wireless audio systems.
Shure introduces the KSE1500 Electrostatic Earphone System - the world’s first Sound Isolating™ electrostatic earphone and amplifier system.
Shure announces the planned retirement of President and CEO Sandy LaMantia.
GLXD6
GLXD6 is launched. Shure’s first wireless receiver in guitar pedal format, delivering continuous interference monitoring in a standard pedal board.
KSE1500
KSE1500 Electrostatic Earphone System - the world’s first Sound Isolating™ electrostatic earphone and amplifier system.
MOTIV
Digital microphones, specifically designed for highly portable, plug-and-play audio capture through direct connection to any Apple iOS, Mac or PC.
Christine Schyvinck, President and CEO
2016
The Executive Vice President of Global Operations, Marketing, and Sales and Chief Operating Officer, Christine (Chris) Schyvinck is named President effective Jan. 1st 2016
Shure unveils KSM8 - the world’s first Dual-Diaphragm Dynamic Handheld Microphone and the most significant dynamic microphone technology advancement the industry has seen in more than 50 years.
With great sadness Shure announces the passing of their beloved Chairman, Rose L. Shure.
2017
Shure introduces GLX-D® Advanced Digital Wireless Products, a suite of products that offer increased channel count, rock-solid RF performance, and expanded automatic frequency management for install applications.
The Intellimix P300 audio conferencing processor launches, featuring unparalleled sound quality and intuitive setup and operation for conference rooms.
Shure partners with Paul McCartney and The Who to auction off Limited Edition SM58® Microphones, in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the SM58. All proceeds benefit Meat Free Monday and Teen Cancer America.
Global Presence Alliance honors Shure with a 2017 Vendor Excellence Award, which recognizes worldwide leaders in AV and UC manufacturing.
Axient® Digital Wireless, the Company’s latest innovation in wireless technology debuts and creates a new industry standard with unparalleled RF and audio performance.
A new Shure regional office in São Paulo, Brazil opens, with an inclusive environment and a collaborative workspace, reflecting the brand's global standards.
The Super 55-BLK Deluxe Vocal Microphone Pitch Black Edition, a refresh of the iconic Model 55 Unidyne® microphone, becomes available.
Shure announces the addition of Bluetooth SE Earphones, for customers who want to upgrade to the seamless connectivity among phones, laptops, and other mobile devices that Bluetooth 4.1 provides.