Shure SE115 and More

Shure's presences at CES and Macworld alike today were kicked off with the launch of new in-ear headphones and USB audio peripherals. The SE115 is claimed as a breakthrough that improves bass response in often weak single-driver headphones; a new dynamic unit produces better low-end frequencies without resorting to a smaller driver that itself would cut out much of the intended sound. They also signal a break in style for Shure and now come in blue, pink and red in addition to the conservative black used before.

The company expects an SE115 set to retail for $100 and will start shipping during the spring.

Two USB condenser microphones, the PG27USB and PG42USB, are also part of the launch and carry a large diaphragm for a wide dynamic range, a pre-amp to boost the outgoing sound and a built-in, lag-free monitoring system that lets users hear both monitor and playback sound at the same time. The PG27USB at $200 is designed to be neutral while the PG42USB boosts the price to $250 and is biased towards lead vocals in singing.

The X2u Adapter is a simple converter that plugs any XLR input, such as from an instrument or studio mic, into a Mac or PC's USB port. It includes the same lag-free monitoring as the microphones and can adapt to the phantom power from condenser mics. It should sell for $130.

All three of the USB add-ons are due to ship sometime in the spring.