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Shure MX185 - Cardioid Wired Lavalier Microphone

BH #SHMX185 • MFR #MX185
20 reviews
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Shure MX185 - Cardioid Wired Lavalier Microphone
Key Features
  • Cardioid Polar Pattern
  • XLR Connection
  • Includes Accessories
The Shure MX185 Cardioid Lavalier Microphone features a wide dynamic range and frequency response for accurate sound reproduction of vocals, instruments and other sound sources.

The microphone may be clipped to neckties, lapels, and other articles of clothing, making it an ideal solution for interviews, presentations, dictation and sound reinforcement.

The cardioid polar pattern features a uniform frequency response and adequately rejects noise and feedback at the off-axis sections of the capsule.

The MX series lavalier microphone feature interchangeable cartridges for easy servicing and replacement. The MX185 features a 4' (1.2 m) long cable with an TA4-F connection. The supplied RK100PK preamplifier provides the standard 3-pin XLR connection. Additional accessories include tie clips, a foam windscreen, zipper pouch, and snap-fit windscreen.

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Shure MX185 Overview

The Shure MX185 Cardioid Lavalier Microphone features a wide dynamic range and frequency response for accurate sound reproduction of vocals, instruments and other sound sources.

The microphone may be clipped to neckties, lapels, and other articles of clothing, making it an ideal solution for interviews, presentations, dictation and sound reinforcement.

The cardioid polar pattern features a uniform frequency response and adequately rejects noise and feedback at the off-axis sections of the capsule.

The MX series lavalier microphone feature interchangeable cartridges for easy servicing and replacement. The MX185 features a 4' (1.2 m) long cable with an TA4-F connection. The supplied RK100PK preamplifier provides the standard 3-pin XLR connection. Additional accessories include tie clips, a foam windscreen, zipper pouch, and snap-fit windscreen.

Highly sensitive condenser lavalier capsule
Interchangeable cartridges for easy replacement and servicing
4' (1.2 m) long cable with 4-pin female (TA4-F) connection
UPC: 042406051651

Shure MX185 Specs

Key Specs
Microphone Type
Lavalier
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Color
Black
Microphone
Microphone Type
Lavalier
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Performance
Frequency Response
50 Hz to 17 kHz
Maximum SPL
124.2 dB
Off-Axis Rejection
-3 dB at 120°
Sensitivity
17 mV / -35.0 dB
Dynamic Range
96.2 dB (1k)
Connectivity
Analog Output Connector
1x TA4F/Mini-XLR 4-Pin
Cable Length
3.9' / 1.2 m
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
11 to 52 V
Physical
Color
Black
Environmental Resistance
No
Packaging Info
Package Weight
0.9 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10 x 4.75 x 3.2"

Shure MX185 Reviews

Highly sensitive = Lots of mic noise

By Jason
Rated 2 out of 5
Date: 2024-08-06

This lav mic sounds great if it is not disturbed in any way. With even the slightest touch or movement causing it to rustle with clothing it creates loud noises. It is extremely sensitive. I use wireless lavs all the time with my wireless system. Mics such as the Sanken COS 11D, Sennheiser MKE2 and MKE1 all work great for picking up voices while minimizing noise. But I wanted more wired options I can use with xlr. I bought the Shure MX185 many years ago and it just sits in my bag. I almost never use it. The only times I do use it I don't dare attach it to the subject but rather will tape it to a mic stand or hang it somewhere it will not be disturbed. But for the best sound it need to be near their mouth so this is a real challenge. I sadly cannot recommend this microphone.

Great Mic but...

By NV-Slim
Rated 3 out of 5
Date: 2015-10-10

...no on/off switch.

See any errors on this page?

What is the easiest and most lightweight way to ...

What is the easiest and most lightweight way to use this microphone with a Sony A7S III camera? Which additional products would I need to buy?
Asked by: Juan Sebastian
To connect the Shure MX185 - Cardioid Wired Lavalier Microphone to a camera input such as that found on the Sony a7S III Mirrorless Camera, an adapter such as the Sony XLR-K3M Dual-Channel Digital XLR Audio Adapter (BH #SOXLRK3M) could be used to interface with the camera's Multi Interface Shoe. Alternatively, a camera mixer such as the Beachtek DXA-MICRO-PRO Active XLR Compact Adapter (BH #BEDXAMICROP) could be used to receive and power the MX185 over XLR connection and send signal into the a7S via its 3.5mm input.
Answered by: Matt Z
Date published: 2023-05-03

Hello. I would like to connect the MX185 to my ...

Hello. I would like to connect the MX185 to my DSLR (Canon t7i) mini jack and need phantom power for it to work. Can I use something like the IK Multimedia iRig Pre? WL185 to RK100PK preamp to iRig Pre to DSLR (with TRRS to TRS adapter). Are there better options to get phantom power and connect to the DSLR? Many thanks.
Asked by: Arthur
The iRig Pre can work if used with a TRRS to TRS adapter like the Rode SC3 (B&H # ROSC3), but there are other camera-mountable systems like the Beachtek DXA-MICRO-PRO Active XLR Compact Adapter (B&H # BEDXAMICROP), Comica Audio CVM-AX3 Dual-Channel Audio Mixer for DSLRs (B&H # COCVMAX3), or Saramonic SR-PAX1 Two-Channel Audio Mixer, Preamp, Microphone Adapter (B&H # SASRPAX1) which are specifically for use with cameras. Please feel free to contact us if you would like further assistance.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2019-12-12

I need a microphone mixer with two xlr inputs. ...

I need a microphone mixer with two xlr inputs. Any suggestions?
Asked by: Karen
Alesis MultiMix 4 USB FX 4-Channel Mixer and USB Audio Interface BH #ALM4USBFXPTX MFR #MM4USBFXPTOOLSXUS
Answered by: Jose
Date published: 2023-05-03

Is this suitable for use with the MXW1 bodypack ...

Is this suitable for use with the MXW1 bodypack or do you need the WL185 instead?
Asked by: Darren
Yes, the Shure MX185 Cardioid Wired Lavalier Microphone, with its XLR preamplifier removed, is compatible for use with the Shure MXW1 Hybrid Bodypack Transmitter with Microphone.
Answered by: Matt Z
Date published: 2023-05-03

I want to plug this directly into a PA that has ...

I want to plug this directly into a PA that has no phantom power. Can I do this, or will I need a separate power source between the mic and the PA? And if so, what will work? Thank you
Asked by: Dan
You will still need a power source. Something ike this: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/155422-REG/Rolls_PB23_PB23_Single_Channel.html?sts=pi&pim=Y
Answered by: James Cruz
Date published: 2023-05-03

question

What is the pre amp code number from Shure ?
Asked by: Anonymous
If I understand the question correctly, the part # for the pre amp for the MX185 is the RK100PK.https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/469581-REG/Shure_RK100PK_RK100PK_RFI_Resistant.html
Answered by: Product Rep Shure Expert
Date published: 2018-08-26
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