Shure Nexadyne Review

Shure has long been a titan in the world of audio engineering, with a legacy stretching back nearly a century. From the iconic SM58, a staple on stages worldwide since 1966, to the innovative KSM8 Dualdyne in 2016, Shure has consistently pushed the boundaries of microphone design. Now, in 2024, the company has unveiled its latest breakthrough: the Shure Nexadyne series. Featuring the revolutionary Revonic Dual Transducer Technology, the Nexadyne line promises to redefine the standard for dynamic vocal microphones. Available in cardioid (Nexadyne 8/C) and supercardioid (Nexadyne 8/S) variants, these microphones aim to deliver unparalleled clarity, noise rejection, and consistency for live performers and sound engineers alike. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Nexadyne’s design, performance, and real-world applications to determine if it lives up to the hype—and whether it might indeed be poised to succeed the legendary SM58.

To understand the significance of the Nexadyne, it’s worth revisiting Shure’s storied history. Founded in 1925 as the Shure Radio Company, the brand has been synonymous with dynamic microphone technology since the 1930s, when engineer Ben Bauer pioneered the Unidyne cartridge—the first single-element directional dynamic mic. This innovation laid the groundwork for the SM58, which became the industry standard for live vocals due to its durability, reliability, and distinctive sound. In 2016, Shure raised the bar again with the KSM8, introducing the Dualdyne capsule with two diaphragms to enhance directionality and reduce proximity effect. The Nexadyne builds on this legacy, introducing the Revonic system—a dual-transducer design that takes acoustic signal processing to new heights.

Unlike traditional dynamic microphones that rely on a single transducer, the Nexadyne employs two precisely matched transducers working in tandem. Shure describes this as an “acoustic network,” where the transducers’ signals are combined to boost on-axis sound and cancel out off-axis noise, including handling noise and mechanical vibrations. The result, they claim, is a microphone that delivers a cleaner, more natural sound with less need for corrective EQ—a bold promise that warrants scrutiny.

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the Nexadyne 8/C and 8/S exude Shure’s signature robustness. Both models feature a die-cast aluminum body finished in a sleek, satin black coating (with nickel options available for wireless capsules). The design departs from the classic “ice-cream cone” shape of the SM58, opting for a more modern, cylindrical aesthetic. The 8/S supercardioid version sports additional ribs along the grille for visual distinction, though both models share the same dent-resistant, hardened grille—a nod to Shure’s commitment to durability.

Weighing in at 9.1 ounces for the 8/C and 10.3 ounces for the 8/S, the Nexadyne mics are slightly lighter than the SM58 (10.5 ounces), making them comfortable for extended handheld use. The absence of a traditional pneumatic shock mount is notable; instead, the Revonic capsule is housed in a firm rubber enclosure that absorbs shocks while the dual-transducer setup cancels out handling noise. In the box, you’ll find a simple mic clip, a brass stand adapter, and a compact zip-up case—practical, no-frills accessories that reflect Shure’s focus on sustainability with minimal, recyclable packaging.

The Nexadyne is available as both a wired XLR microphone and a wireless capsule compatible with Shure’s Axient Digital, ULX-D, QLX-D, and SLX-D systems. Priced at $299 for both handheld and capsule versions, it sits in the premium dynamic mic category, competing with models like the Telefunken M80 and Sennheiser e945, but it remains significantly more affordable than high-end condensers or boutique dynamics.

Revonic Technology: The Heart of the Nexadyne

The star of the Nexadyne is undoubtedly its Revonic Dual Transducer Technology. Shure explains that the two transducers—one responding to sound from the front, the other to sound entering side ports—are wired out-of-phase to enhance the desired signal while attenuating unwanted noise. This acoustic signal processing mimics the behavior of studio-grade large-diaphragm condensers, but in a rugged, dynamic package suited for the stage.

The output impedance is higher than average (300Ω for the 8/C, 450Ω for the 8/S), and the sensitivity is impressive: -54 dBV/Pa for the 8/C and -51 dBV/Pa for the 8/S, compared to the SM58’s -56 dBV/Pa. This hotter output means less preamp gain is required, which is a boon for long cable runs or noisy environments. Shure also touts the Nexadyne’s polar pattern consistency, with the cardioid 8/C maintaining a tight 5dB range across frequencies and the supercardioid 8/S offering exceptional off-axis rejection. These specs suggest a microphone that’s both forgiving for vocalists and precise for engineers—a rare combination in the dynamic mic world.

Sound Quality and Performance

So, how does the Nexadyne sound? In testing, both the 8/C and 8/S deliver a striking departure from the SM58’s familiar tonal profile. Where the SM58 is known for its pronounced presence peak around 4-6kHz—giving vocals a punchy, forward character—the Nexadyne opts for a more neutral, hi-fidelity approach. The 8/C cardioid model offers a wide, even midrange with a subdued proximity effect, resulting in a clean, articulate sound that feels less boomy than the SM58 up close. The 8/S supercardioid, meanwhile, emphasizes clarity in the high-mids and highs, cutting through dense mixes with a natural, unexaggerated top end.

In a live setting—imagine a bustling festival stage—the Nexadyne shines. The 8/S, with its tighter polar pattern, excels at isolating vocals from stage bleed, making it ideal for loud environments or singers who prefer a bit of distance from the mic. The 8/C, with its broader sweet spot, accommodates dynamic performers who move around the grille, maintaining consistency even off-axis. Both models handle plosives and sibilance admirably, thanks to a three-stage pop filter, and feedback resistance is impressive, with rejection holding steady until around 4kHz in high-gain scenarios.

Compared to the KSM8, which is often praised for its condenser-like neutrality, the Nexadyne feels more assertive. It’s not as flat as the KSM8—there’s a subtle presence boost around 3.5-4kHz—but it avoids the harshness some dynamics exhibit in this range. Against competitors like the Telefunken M80 (known for its crisp top end) or the Sennheiser e945 (a favorite for its warmth), the Nexadyne strikes a balance: it’s bold yet refined, with enough character to stand out without overwhelming the mix.

Practical Applications

For vocalists, the Nexadyne’s clarity is a game-changer. Singers who “eat the mic” will appreciate the controlled proximity boost, while those with strong projection can rely on its reach and fidelity. In-ear monitor users, in particular, may find the 8/C’s articulate mids and reduced stage noise a revelation—no more begging the engineer for “more me” in the mix. The 8/S, meanwhile, is a natural fit for lead vocals in rock or metal, where isolation and punch are paramount.

Sound engineers will love the Nexadyne’s minimal EQ requirements. The flatter response and consistent polar pattern mean less time carving out problem frequencies or fighting feedback. In a shootout with an SM58, the Nexadyne sounds like a pre-EQ’d version—smoother lows, clearer mids, and a less peaky top end. It’s not a replacement for the SM58’s gritty charm, but it’s a premium upgrade for those seeking refinement over tradition.

In houses of worship, clubs, or touring rigs, the Nexadyne’s durability ensures it can withstand the rigors of constant use. The wireless capsule option further expands its versatility, integrating seamlessly with Shure’s digital ecosystems for a cohesive, high-quality signal chain.

Final Thoughts

Is the Nexadyne the “next SM58”? That’s a lofty claim, given the SM58’s near-mythical status. The SM58’s success isn’t just about sound—it’s about affordability ($99 vs. $299), ubiquity, and a tonal signature that’s become a cultural benchmark. The Nexadyne doesn’t aim to replicate that; instead, it carves out a new niche. It’s a microphone for the modern stage, where clarity, consistency, and noise rejection matter more than ever.

The Revonic technology is a genuine leap forward, delivering on its promise of enhanced signal quality and reduced handling noise. The build quality is impeccable, the sound is exceptional, and the practical benefits for both performers and engineers are undeniable. Yet, its price point and departure from the SM58’s character may limit its universal adoption. It’s more akin to a Beta 58A or KSM8 successor—premium tools for those willing to invest in excellence.

In conclusion, the Shure Nexadyne is a triumph of innovation. It’s not here to dethrone the SM58 but to elevate the dynamic mic category into the future. For vocalists and engineers seeking a cutting-edge tool that blends tradition with technology, the Nexadyne is a must-try. Shure has once again proven why they remain the gold standard in live audio—and the Nexadyne might just be the mic that defines the next decade of performance.