Shure AD2/K8B Handheld Wireless Microphone Transmitter

Product Overview

The Shure AD2/K8B is an Axient Digital handheld wireless transmitter paired with the KSM8 dual-diaphragm dynamic capsule in black finish, targeting live performance and commercial AV installations where the KSM8’s flat frequency response and controlled proximity effect provide superior consistency over traditional dynamic capsules. The AD2 platform delivers AES 256-bit encryption, High Density mode, and tuning up to 184 MHz with dual battery support—AA or Shure rechargeable—at a professional price point without ShowLink remote control.

Product Description

The AD2/K8B pairs the AD2 transmitter body with the KSM8 dual-diaphragm dynamic capsule in black. The KSM8 uses a secondary floating diaphragm to neutralize proximity effect and flatten the frequency response—a meaningful acoustic advantage in commercial AV applications with untrained speakers, large venues with varying microphone distances, and wireless reinforcement systems that benefit from consistent capsule behavior. The AD2 platform provides the RF infrastructure: Axient Digital digital modulation, selectable 2/10/35 mW output, Standard and High Density operating modes, and AES 256-bit encryption. The transmitter accepts both AA alkaline batteries and the optional Shure SB900C rechargeable for power management flexibility. All AD2/K8B variant capsules are field-interchangeable with other RPW-series Shure wireless cartridges.

Key Features

• KSM8 Dual-Diaphragm Dynamic Capsule (Black) — Secondary floating diaphragm reduces proximity effect and produces a flatter, more predictable frequency response than conventional dynamic capsules.
• Axient Digital RF Platform — Professional digital wireless with AES 256-bit encryption, High Density mode, and wide tuning up to 184 MHz.
• AES 256-Bit Encryption — Secure audio for corporate and government AV deployments.
• High Density Mode — 125 kHz channel-to-channel spacing enables more simultaneous wireless channels in limited spectrum.
• Dual Battery Support — Accepts SB900C rechargeable Li-Ion (up to 11 hours at 10 mW) or 2× AA alkaline (up to 8 hours).
• Selectable RF Output: 2/10/35 mW — Flexible power configuration for high-density or extended-range systems.
• Interchangeable RPW-Series Capsules — Compatible with all Shure RPW wireless cartridges for field reconfiguration without transmitter replacement.
• Cast Aluminum Housing — Commercial-grade durability for rental inventory and permanent installation.

Typical Applications

• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Conference room
• All-hands room
• Multi-purpose room
• Government space

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What differentiates the KSM8 from a standard dynamic capsule in a wireless handheld?
The KSM8 uses a patented dual-diaphragm design in which the rear diaphragm floats acoustically. This cancels proximity effect—the bass boost that occurs when a dynamic mic is held close to the mouth—and flattens the frequency response over a wider distance range. For commercial AV environments, this means more consistent audio quality across different speakers with varying mic technique.

What is the difference between AD2/K8B (black) and AD2/K8N (this product's nickel equivalent)?
The AD2/K8B uses the black-finish KSM8 capsule (RPW174) and black transmitter body. An equivalent nickel-finish KSM8 configuration would use RPW170. The acoustic performance is identical; the difference is purely the capsule and housing color.

What Axient Digital receivers are compatible?
AD4D, AD4Q, and ADX5D. Receiver frequency band must match the ordered transmitter band.

What warranty is included?
Shure provides a 2-year limited warranty. Contact Creation Networks for service and support.