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Shure Models 315 and 315S Gradient
bi-directional ribbon microphones

Shure Model 315

General
The Models 315 and 315S are compact and rugged rib­bon mics combining wide range response and a bidirec­tional pickup pattern. The bidirectional pattern reduces noise and reverberation providing the same control as an equivalent cardioid microphone. The Models 315 and 315S are ideal for high-quality public address, theater stage sound systems, and recording applications. Due to the bidirectional polar pattern, they may be used for either single performer, a dialogue or group, solo or orchestra, and other individual or chorus applications.

Shure Model 315

The Models 315 Gold and 315S Gold feature a gold-colored finish.
Specifications in other respects are the same as for the standard models.

The Shure 315

Microphone Features

  • Wide-range front and rear response

  • Bidirectional polar pattern, effective
    over wide frequency range

  • Convenient impedance selection

  • A strong detachable cable especially selected
    for good shielding from “hum” pickup

  • A self-adjusting swivel permits aiming
    microphone at source of sound

  • Rugged mechanical design with
    special ribbon protection

The Models 315 and 315S are multi-impedance for con­necting into mic inputs rated at 25 to 50 ohms, 150 to 250 ohms, or into high-impedance mic inputs. The low impedances are recommended where long cable lengths are required or under conditions of severe hum dis­turbance. Cable length is almost unlimited, since neither response nor level is appreciably affected. For use with high-impedance amplifiers, the Shure Model A95UF Line-Matching Transformer is available for coupling the low impedance line to the amplifier input.

The Shure 315

Impedance Selection
Selection of the various impedances is accomplished by removing a plate and changing the position of the switch at the rear of the microphone. The switch positions are marked “L” for low impedance (25-50 ohms), “M” for medium impedance (150-250 ohms), and “H” for high im­pedance (35,000 ohms).

  • Frequency response: 50 to 12,000 Hz (see Figure B)

  • Polar Pattern: Bidirectional, equally sensitive at front and back. Response at sides down 15 to 20 dB from front and rear responses (see Figure C)

  • Switch: Model 315 none, Model 315S built-in “ON-OFF” switch to control microphone circuit. The switch is an integral part of the receptacle assembly and is a slide-to-talk locking type switch

  • Case: Chrome-plated die cast

  • Net Weight: 1 pound (454 grams)

  • Introduced: 1952

  • Discontinued: 1977
Shure Model 315

Photographs courtesy of Dennis Schrank

Internal connections Shure 315 frequency response Shure 315 polar pattern Overall dimensions Shure Model 315

The following three photos are also courtesy of Dennis Schrank,
and portray the Shure 315S microphone. Note the switch.

The Shure 315S The Shure 315S The Shure 315S Ad

Microphones on this site are not for sale. This ad is provided for historical purposes.

Jane Wyman

Jane Wyman in a scene from Lucy Gallant.

Shure 315 data sheet

Download the Data Sheet for these mics.

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