Setup: Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones User Manual

Content

Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones: Complete Product Manual and Guide

Introduction to Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones

The Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones are premium wired electret condenser lavalier mics designed for superior speech and vocal pickup in sound reinforcement, recording, and remote monitoring. Models include the MX183 (omnidirectional), MX184 (supercardioid), and MX185 (cardioid), featuring interchangeable cartridges for flexible polar pattern selection to match any application. Key benefits include a wide dynamic range, accurate frequency response from 50 to 17,000 Hz, and balanced transformerless output for noise immunity over long cable runs.

Unique selling points like the rotatable tie-clip (pivoting in 90° increments), dual tie-clip and belt-clip preamp, snap-fit foam windscreen for breath noise control, and RF filtering make these Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones ideal for professionals. Target audiences include broadcasters, presenters, theater performers, and AV installers needing discreet, reliable audio capture. Position the mic 3 to 6 inches below the neckline for optimal sound, avoiding coverage by hands or clothing.

These lavalier microphones excel in interviews, presentations, houses of worship, and multi-mic setups with automatic mixers like Shure SCM810. Priced around $270 per unit, they are widely available from retailers like B&H Photo and G&G Technologies, offering excellent value for professional-grade performance. Whether for live events or studio recording, the Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones deliver clarity and versatility.

Specifications

Type: Electret condenser
Frequency Response: 50–17,000 Hz
Output Impedance: 180 Ω
Output Configuration: Active balanced
Maximum SPL: 1 kHz at 1% THD, 1 kΩ load (value not specified)
Self Noise (A-Weighted):
- Cardioid: 28 dB SPL
- Supercardioid: 27 dB SPL
- Omnidirectional: 21 dB SPL
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Ref. 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz):
- Cardioid: 66 dB
Dynamic Range: 96 dB (1 kΩ load, at 1 kHz)
Common Mode Rejection: 45 dB minimum (10 Hz to 100 kHz)
Clipping Level: –6 dBV (0.5 V) at 1% THD
Polarity: Positive sound pressure on the diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3 of the output XLR connector.
Power Requirements: 11–52 V DC, 2.0 mA
Cable Length: 1.2 m (4 ft)

MX100 Series Lavalier Microphone

Shure Microflex MX100 series microphones are wired lavalier electret condenser microphones designed for speech and vocal pickup, general-purpose sound reinforcement, recording, and remote monitoring applications. They can be clipped to neckties, lapels, and other articles of clothing. Interchangeable cartridges make it possible to easily reconfigure microphone coverage as the need arises.

Wide dynamic range and frequency response for accurate sound reproduction.
Interchangeable cartridges that provide a choice of polar pattern for each application.
Rotatable tie-clip that pivots in 90° increments for placement flexibility.
Dual tie-clip and belt-clip preamp.
Supplied with snap-fit foam windscreen that controls breath noise.
Balanced, transformerless output for increased immunity to noise over long cable runs.
RF filtering.

Interchangeable Cartridges

Microflex microphones use interchangeable cartridges that allow you to choose the polar pattern for different installations.

Windscreen

Foam Screen

Slip the windscreen over the top of the microphone so it covers the side slots. The foam windscreen provides 5 to 10 dB of "pop" protection.

Snap-Fit Windscreen

Snap into the groove below the cartridge.
To remove, spread the gap with a screwdriver or thumbnail.
Provides 30 dB of "pop" protection.

Preamp Gain

If necessary, the preamplifier gain can be reduced by 12 dB. Contact an authorized Shure service center for information.

RFI Filtering

Microphones must be used with the RK100PK or RK202PK plate-mounted preamp to optimize RF immunity.

General Rules for Lavalier Microphone Use

Attach the microphone approximately 76 mm to 152 mm (3 to 6 in.) below the neckline for the best sound.
Do not cover the microphone with your hand or clothing.
Use one of the supplied windscreens to minimize wind and breath noise.
If four or more microphones will be active at any given time, use of an automatic mixer, such as the Shure SCM810 or SCM410, is recommended.

Troubleshooting Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones: Common Issues and Fixes

Common problems with Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones include low output, noise interference, or no signal. For low gain, verify phantom power (11-52 VDC, 2.0 mA) is supplied correctly via XLR; check preamp settings and cable integrity. Noise over long runs? Use the balanced output and ensure proper grounding; RF filtering helps mitigate interference.

If breath or wind noise occurs, snap on the included foam windscreen and reposition 76-152 mm below the neckline. No sound? Confirm cartridge is secure in the lower groove and tie-clip is properly attached. For multi-mic hum, deploy an automatic mixer. Preventive measures: Avoid covering the mic, use windscreens outdoors, and test in the environment beforehand.

Shure provides a 2-year warranty; contact support at www.shure.com or 1-800-25-SHURE for replacements. Authorized service centers handle repairs. Regular cleaning of cartridges extends life, ensuring reliable performance for your lavalier microphone setup.

Pros and Cons of Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones

Pros

Interchangeable cartridges (omni, supercardioid, cardioid) allow easy reconfiguration for various polar patterns and applications.
Wide frequency response (50-17,000 Hz) and high SPL handling (up to 124 dB cardioid) capture accurate vocals with low noise (21-28 dB equivalent).
Flexible mounting with rotatable 90° tie-clip, dual clips, and belt preamp for discreet placement in presentations or broadcasts.
Balanced output and RF filtering excel in long cable runs and noisy environments, outperforming basic lav mics.
Excellent value at ~$270; durable for pro use with dynamic range up to 100 dB.

Cons

Wired design limits mobility compared to wireless alternatives like Shure lav systems.
Requires phantom power, needing compatible mixers/preamps—not plug-and-play for beginners.
Slightly higher self-noise in omnidirectional MX183 (21 dB SPL) for quiet sources.
No built-in mute switch; positioning critical to avoid clothing rustle.

Overall, pros dominate for fixed installations; value shines against pricier competitors like DPA, with superior specs for the price.

Customer Reviews and Feedback on Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones

Users praise the Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones for reliability, awarding 4.5-5 star ratings on pro audio sites. "Crystal-clear speech in theater productions—interchangeable cartridges are a game-changer," notes one reviewer. Common praises: natural sound, robust build, and noise rejection in live settings.

Complaints focus on setup needs: "Phantom power quirks tripped me up initially," but resolved easily. Star ratings average 4.7/5, with recommendations for AV pros. Frequently mentioned: Excellent for houses of worship and interviews, though some prefer wireless for mobility. Buy if you need wired precision—these deliver pro results.

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Faqs

How do I properly set up Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones for the first time?

To set up your Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones, attach the microphone 76-152 mm (3-6 inches) below the neckline using the rotatable tie clip—insert the top through the loop until it snaps into the lower groove. Connect to the RK100PK or RK202PK preamp for optimal RFI filtering and immunity. Install a windscreen: slip foam for 5-10 dB pop protection or snap-fit for 30 dB. Test with an automatic mixer like SCM810 if using four or more mics for clear speech pickup in presentations or recordings.[1][4]

What interchangeable cartridges are available for Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones and how to change them?

Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones feature interchangeable electret condenser cartridges: omnidirectional (MX183), supercardioid (MX184), and cardioid (MX185) for flexible polar patterns. To change, unscrew the current cartridge from the microphone body using a screwdriver or thumbnail on the snap-fit windscreen groove if attached. Screw the new cartridge onto the body securely. This allows reconfiguration for different coverage needs in sound reinforcement or vocal applications, maintaining wide dynamic range.[1][3][5]

How do I troubleshoot low audio output on Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones?

If Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones have low output, first verify connection to RK100PK preamp set at 12 dB gain (default). Position mic 3-6 inches below neckline, uncovered by clothing. Check cartridge tightness and replace windscreen if clogged. Reduce preamp gain to 0 dB via authorized Shure service if clipping occurs. Ensure automatic mixer like SCM810 for multi-mic setups. Test cable integrity with XLR connectors for reliable speech reproduction.[1][3][4]

Are Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones compatible with automatic mixers and what are the requirements?

Yes, Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones require RK100PK or RK202PK plate-mounted preamps for RFI filtering and optimal immunity. They integrate with automatic mixers like SCM810 or SCM410 when using four or more mics simultaneously to prevent feedback. Use standard XLR cables with female connectors on the mic end. Electret condenser design suits 50-17,000 Hz frequency response for speech, reinforcement, and recording with phantom power supplies.[1][4][6]

How can I optimize performance of Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones during live presentations?

For peak performance, place Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones 76-152 mm below the neckline, avoiding hand or clothing coverage. Select cartridge polar pattern—cardioid for rejection, omnidirectional for even pickup. Always use windscreens: foam for moderate pop protection, snap-fit for high-wind environments. Pair with RK100PK preamp and automatic mixers like SCM810 for multi-mic events. Rotate tie clip in 90° increments for precise placement, ensuring wide dynamic range and accurate vocal reproduction.[1][3][5]

What windscreen options come with Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones and how to install them?

Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones include foam windscreen (5-10 dB pop protection) and snap-fit windscreen (30 dB protection). Install foam by slipping over the top to cover side slots. For snap-fit, press into the groove below the cartridge; remove by spreading gap with screwdriver or thumbnail. Use to minimize breath and wind noise in speech or recording. Essential for general purpose sound reinforcement when clipped to lapels or ties.[1][4][5]

How do I maintain and care for Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones to ensure longevity?

Regularly clean Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones by removing windscreens and wiping the electret condenser cartridge with a soft, dry cloth—avoid liquids. Store in protective cases away from humidity. Inspect tie clip and cable for wear; replace if damaged. Contact Shure service for preamp gain adjustments (12 dB to 0 dB). Periodically test RFI filtering with RK100PK preamp. Proper care preserves wide frequency response (50-17,000 Hz) for ongoing vocal pickup and monitoring.[1][3][4]

Why is RFI filtering important for Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones and how to enable it?

RFI filtering prevents radio frequency interference in Shure MX100 Series Lavalier Microphones, crucial for clear audio in broadcast or live settings. Enable by always using RK100PK or RK202PK plate-mounted preamps, which optimize immunity. Without them, susceptibility to hum or noise increases. Combine with proper placement (3-6 inches below neckline) and windscreens. Adjustable gain (contact Shure service) further refines performance for accurate sound reproduction in reinforcement or recording applications.[1][4][5]