Shure MX418 18-Inch Gooseneck Microphone | Model: MX418/C

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between the Shure MX418/C and MX418/S models?

A: The suffix indicates the polar pattern of the included cartridge. The /C variant ships with a cardioid cartridge, which picks up sound from the front and rejects noise from the sides and rear. Ideal for a single speaker at a podium or conference table. The /S variant ships with a supercardioid cartridge, which has an even narrower pickup angle for maximum gain-before-feedback in louder environments like lecture halls with reinforcement systems. Both models share the same 18-inch dual-flex gooseneck body and accept the full range of Shure Microflex interchangeable cartridges.

Q: Does the Shure MX418 require phantom power, and what mixer or DSP is it compatible with?

A: Yes, the MX418 is a condenser microphone that requires 11–52V DC phantom power at 2.0 mA. It is compatible with virtually any professional mixer, DSP platform, or audio interface that supplies standard 48V phantom power, including systems from Biamp, QSC, Crown, Yamaha, and Shure's own MXWAPT wireless systems. If phantom power isn't available, it cannot be powered by a battery. Always confirm your signal chain supplies phantom power before purchase.

Q: Can the Shure MX418 be mounted on a podium, conference table, or installed in the ceiling?

A: The MX418 is specifically engineered for surface-mount applications, conference tables, lecterns, podiums, and similar flat surfaces. It uses a low-profile base that can accept a locking flange or shockmount assembly (depending on the variant ordered). It is not a ceiling-mount microphone; for overhead installation, Shure's MX202 pendant-style mic is the appropriate product. The dual-flex gooseneck allows precise positioning without tools, making the MX418 a preferred choice for AV integrators who need a clean, repeatable install.

Q: Are the cartridges on the Shure MX418 interchangeable, and what replacements are available?

A: One of the MX418's biggest advantages for installed AV environments is its interchangeable cartridge system. The head can be swapped without tools to change the polar pattern as the room's acoustic needs evolve. Compatible replacement and upgrade cartridges include the Shure RPM108 (cardioid), RPM109 (supercardioid), and RPM110S (omnidirectional). This means you can purchase a single MX418 body and change the pickup pattern for different use cases — a significant cost advantage compared to buying entirely separate microphones.