Shure MX418/S
Best professional gooseneck microphone for permanent podium and lectern installations.
The Shure MX418/S is a professional gooseneck microphone designed for public speaking engagements in venues like lecterns and pulpits. Its 18-inch flexible gooseneck allows for precise positioning, while the integrated shock mount minimizes unwanted surface vibration noise. The supercardioid polar pattern effectively captures the speaker's voice with a tight 115° pickup angle, rejecting ambient sounds. A built-in windscreen reduces plosives and sibilant sounds for clearer audio. This microphone features an attached preamplifier for optional gain reduction and a locking flange mount for secure, permanent installation.
$296.00
More Microflex Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
193
/ 1735
#193 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-42%
Below average
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
/ Supercardioid
Who it's for
- AV technicians working in signal-heavy environments
- Presenters needing crystal-clear vocal intelligibility
- Installers requiring durable, adjustable hardware for busy venues
Who should skip it
- Users lacking professional mixers or phantom power sources
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level equipment
- Speakers who move frequently while presenting
Performance breakdown
Voice Clarity
Supercardioid pattern ensures crisp, focused audio for professional public speaking.
Vibration Isolation
Integrated shock mount effectively eliminates distracting thumps from podium surfaces.
Installation Versatility
Locking flange mount provides a secure, permanent fit for any lectern.
Positioning Flexibility
The 18-inch gooseneck offers precise adjustment for speakers of any height.
Plosive Control
Snap-fit windscreen handles harsh consonants with impressive, natural-sounding ease.
Build Durability
Rugged construction stands up to the rigors of daily institutional use.
Key Specs
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Frequency Response
50Hz - 17kHz
Output Impedance
150 ohms
Maximum SPL
122.7dB
Sensitivity
-33.5 dBV/Pa
Power Requirement
11 to 52-volt phantom power
Overall Length
22.50"
Weight
6.2 ounces
Features
- Gooseneck microphone for podiums and lecterns
- 115° supercardioid polar pattern rejects side noise
- Shock mount isolates mic from surface vibration noise
- Includes mic preamp attached to gooseneck base
- Locking flange mount allows for permanent installation
- Snap-fit foam windscreen minimizes plosives and sibilants
- Interchangeable capsules available for pattern flexibility
- Gain can be reduced by 12dB via internal modification
What customers say
Users overwhelmingly praise the Shure MX418/S for its exceptional audio clarity and natural voice reproduction, making it a benchmark for installed sound. Its supercardioid pattern effectively rejects off-axis noise and minimizes feedback, a key benefit in busy environments like conference rooms. Reviewers consistently highlight the microphone's superior reliability and robust build quality, viewing it as a durable workhorse. The integrated features ensure clean signal transmission even near potential interference sources. While the initial price is higher, customers find the superior performance, longevity, and professional features deliver excellent long-term value. It is highly recommended as a dependable, high-fidelity solution for demanding audio challenges.
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a condenser microphone that requires 11 to 52-volt phantom power, typically supplied by your mixing console or audio interface.
The supercardioid pattern has a tight 115° pickup angle, which is excellent for isolating the speaker's voice while rejecting noise from the sides. Because it is directional, the speaker needs to stay relatively close to the front of the mic for the best audio quality.
Yes, the MX418/S features interchangeable capsules. If your needs change, you can swap the included supercardioid capsule for other Shure Microflex cartridges to adjust the polar pattern.
The shock mount is included and is essential for podium use. It physically isolates the microphone from the surface, preventing thuds and vibrations from being transmitted through the lectern into your audio.
Yes, it comes with a locking flange mount designed for secure, permanent mounting to a lectern or pulpit. Once installed, it provides a stable, professional-looking setup.
The MX418/S includes an attached preamplifier that allows for an internal 12dB gain reduction. If you find the signal is clipping or too loud for your system, you can modify the internal settings to lower the output level.
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