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Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Instrument Condenser Microphone
The Shure SM81 is a high-quality small diaphragm, cardioid condenser microphone. Its flat, neutral frequency response, make it particularly well-suited for use on acoustic guitar, piano, cymbals and choirs.
- Flat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound sources
- Low noise and high-output clipping level
- Low distortion over a wide range of load impedances
- Cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates source signal
- Low RF susceptibility
- Selectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18dB/oct roll-off
- 0dB/10dB lockable attenuator switch
- Phantom powering (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 Vdc)
- Rugged steel construction for durability
- Field-useable over wide range of temperature and humidity conditions
| Transducer | (Electret Bias) Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Dynamic Range (Typical) | 120 dB |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 78 dB, (@ 94 dB SPL, IEC 651) |
| Maximum Input Sound Level |
136 dB, (@ 250 Hz 0.5% THD) 146 dB, (with Pad) |
| Power Requirements | Phantom 11 - 52v DC |
| Output Impedance | 150 Ohms (85 Ohms Actual) |
| Output Connectors | XLR-3M Type |
| Pad | -10 dB Attenuation |
| Low Frequency Roll-Off |
-6 dB/Octave @ 100 Hz -18 dB/Octave @ 80 Hz |
| Applications | Sound Reinforcement, Broadcast and Studio Recording. |
| Dimensions | 212 x 23.5 mm LxDiameter |
| Weight | 8 oz. (230 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 3 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 3 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-3
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
Purchased two SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic by Shure to use for drum overheads. The bomb!
These mics do not color the sound. What you hear when you play is what you will hear out of the mixer. Fantastic mics. I don't have any other instrument condensers to compare them to, and I will never need to. It couldn't get any better than this. I'm using recorderman setup with two additional mics on bass drum and bottom of snare. This is perfect for recording drums. Sounds fantastic on conga too!
Pros
- Accurate response
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
I bought a pair of these to mic my C7 and classical guitar. Although I am still experimenting with various placements, all placements that I have tried have produced excellent results. Seems to be flat and accurate.
Pros
- Brilliant
- Crispness
- Quiet
- Simple Use
Cons
- Price
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
I'm a musician, producer and audio designer, recording professionally for over 5 years.
The SM-81 has been the small diaphragm condenser of choice in many studios since it was released. I own a pair of them and have used them primarily as drum overhead mics, and for stereo mic'ing acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments. The SM-81 is one of the most accurate mic's I've used (what you hear is what you get).
They are also very well made... like long, silver, cylindrical jewels. The -10db pad and low end roll off switches are easy to get to, but not easy to accidentally switch on or off. They are also one of the quietest (low self-noise) mics.
Many jazz artists love them because of their accuracy. They also work quite well for recording choirs and pipe organs.
- Primary use:
- Business
Displaying reviews 1-3
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 3 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 3 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-3
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
Purchased two SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic by Shure to use for drum overheads. The bomb!
These mics do not color the sound. What you hear when you play is what you will hear out of the mixer. Fantastic mics. I don't have any other instrument condensers to compare them to, and I will never need to. It couldn't get any better than this. I'm using recorderman setup with two additional mics on bass drum and bottom of snare. This is perfect for recording drums. Sounds fantastic on conga too!
Pros
- Accurate response
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
I bought a pair of these to mic my C7 and classical guitar. Although I am still experimenting with various placements, all placements that I have tried have produced excellent results. Seems to be flat and accurate.
Pros
- Brilliant
- Crispness
- Quiet
- Simple Use
Cons
- Price
Best Uses
- Professional
Comments about Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic:
I'm a musician, producer and audio designer, recording professionally for over 5 years.
The SM-81 has been the small diaphragm condenser of choice in many studios since it was released. I own a pair of them and have used them primarily as drum overhead mics, and for stereo mic'ing acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments. The SM-81 is one of the most accurate mic's I've used (what you hear is what you get).
They are also very well made... like long, silver, cylindrical jewels. The -10db pad and low end roll off switches are easy to get to, but not easy to accidentally switch on or off. They are also one of the quietest (low self-noise) mics.
Many jazz artists love them because of their accuracy. They also work quite well for recording choirs and pipe organs.
- Primary use:
- Business
Displaying reviews 1-3
Cables
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- Price: $17.99
Stands & Support
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- Price: $27.99
Wind Protection
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- Price: $5.70
Microphone Clips
- Price: $7.95
Shock Mounts
- Price: $279.00
Cases & Protection
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- Price: $32.99
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