Shure RPW188 – KSM9 Wireless Replacement Head, Nickel

Product Overview

The Shure RPW188 is a genuine OEM replacement wireless head for KSM9 handheld condenser wireless transmitters in nickel finish, featuring dual 3/4-inch gold-layered diaphragms. It is the correct service part for nickel-finish KSM9 wireless transmitters, restoring the premium dual-polar-pattern condenser performance of the KSM9 after capsule damage. The RPW188 is compatible with Shure wireless systems that accept the KSM9 interchangeable capsule, including select ULXD, QLXD, and Axient Digital handheld transmitter models.

Product Description

The KSM9 wireless head is Shure’s top-tier wireless condenser capsule assembly, specified in demanding commercial AV, broadcast, and high-end live reinforcement environments where consistent, premium vocal reproduction is required. Dual 3/4-inch gold-layered Mylar diaphragms deliver extended frequency response and low self-noise, while switchable cardioid/supercardioid polar patterns provide flexibility for different acoustic environments. The RPW188 replaces a damaged or worn KSM9 wireless head with a factory-matched assembly in brushed nickel to match nickel-body Shure wireless transmitters. AV integrators and systems engineers maintaining KSM9 wireless infrastructure in boardrooms, broadcast studios, or houses of worship should stock the RPW188 as a standard service spare. For the black-finish KSM9 element, see the Shure RPW184.

Key Features

• Dual 3/4-Inch Gold-Layered Diaphragms — Premium large-format dual-diaphragm construction delivers extended frequency response and low self-noise, characteristic of the KSM9’s high-fidelity condenser performance.
• Switchable Cardioid/Supercardioid Polar Patterns — Dual polar pattern capability provides flexibility for tailoring pickup pattern to the acoustic environment, from natural vocal reinforcement to tighter feedback-controlled deployments.
• Nickel Finish — Brushed nickel finish matches nickel-body Shure wireless transmitters for a cohesive system appearance in installed commercial AV environments.
• OEM Replacement Assembly — Genuine Shure factory replacement ensures acoustic performance identical to the original KSM9 capsule specification.
• Premium Condenser Vocal Performance — Delivers KSM9-class condenser vocal reproduction in a wireless capsule format for commercial AV, broadcast, and live sound applications.

Typical Applications

• Boardroom and executive conference room wireless microphone systems requiring premium vocal reproduction
• Broadcast studios with Shure KSM9-equipped wireless vocal systems
• House of worship where high-fidelity condenser vocal quality is specified
• Government spaces and auditoriums with premium Shure wireless infrastructure
• All-hands rooms and large commercial meeting spaces where vocal intelligibility is critical

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RPW188 and what does it replace?
The RPW188 is the nickel-finish replacement wireless head for Shure KSM9-equipped handheld wireless transmitters. It replaces a damaged or faulty KSM9 wireless capsule assembly, restoring the original condenser vocal performance to the transmitter body.

How does the RPW188 (KSM9 nickel) differ from the RPW184 (KSM9 black)?
Both the RPW188 and RPW184 are KSM9 wireless heads with identical acoustic performance. The only difference is finish: RPW188 is nickel for nickel-body transmitters, and RPW184 is black for black-body transmitters. Choose based on the finish of your specific Shure wireless transmitter.

Which Shure wireless transmitters are compatible?
The RPW188 is compatible with Shure handheld transmitters in the ULXD, QLXD, and Axient Digital families that accept the KSM9 capsule. Verify your specific transmitter model against Shure’s published compatibility documentation before ordering.

Is this a genuine Shure part?
Yes. The RPW188 is a genuine Shure OEM wireless head, manufactured to the same specification as the KSM9 supplied in new transmitters.

What warranty applies to the RPW188?
The RPW188 is covered under Shure’s standard product warranty. Contact Creation Networks or Shure for current warranty terms applicable to your installation.