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Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Instrument Condenser Microphone

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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
Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Condenser Mic
 
5.0

(based on 3 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (3)

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    (0)

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100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 3 customers

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(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

 
5.0

Happy Drummer

By Happy Drummer

from dallas,tx

About Me Novice

Verified Buyer

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!

    Comment on this review

    (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

     
    5.0

    Excellent Mic

    By bpascal

    from Phoenix, AZ

    About Me Professional Musician

    Verified Buyer

    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.

      Comment on this review

      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

       
      5.0

      What you hear is what you get!

      By Giuliano de Landa

      from Brazil, Vitória/ES

      About Me Gearhead, Tech Savvy

      Verified Buyer

      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

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      Cables

      Pearstone -  3-Pin XLR Male to 3-Pin XLR Female Audio Cable (6')
        • Original: $15.99
        • Save: $1.60
      • Price: $14.39
       

      Stands & Support

      Ultimate Support -  Microphone Stand
      • Price: $17.65
       

      Wind Protection

      Shure -  RK311 Windscreen for the SM81 Microphone
      • Price: $5.69
       

      Microphone Clips

      Shure -  A57F Microphone Clip
      • Price: $7.95
       

      Shock Mounts

      Rycote -  MODULAR SUSPENSION M1 f/SHURE SM81
      • Price: $279.00
       

      This item is usually Drop Shipped from the MFR/Distributor within xxxx (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of placing the order with the vendor. Item is non-cancelable and non-returnable.

      Cases & Protection

      Gator Cases -  GM-5W Deluxe Wireless 5 Microphone Bag
      • Price: $59.99
       
      View all Accessories

      What's in the Box

      Shure SM81-LC - Cardioid Instrument Condenser Microphone
      • (A57F) Swivel Adapter
      • (34A830) 10 dB Attenuator Lock
      • (65A1797) Carrying/Storage Case
      • (49A111) Foam Windscreen
      • 2 Year Warranty
       
       
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