Video Chat with a Pro Audio Expert - Live

Shure Beta 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone

BH #SHBETA87A • MFR #BETA87A
Print
Shure Beta 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone
Key Features
  • For Professional Studio and Stage Use
  • Highly Consistent Supercardioid Pickup
  • Smooth Wide Frequency Response
  • Gradual Presence Rise for Vocals
Add studio-grade clarity to your live mix with the Beta 87A from Shure, a handheld condenser microphone with a tight supercardioid pickup that avoids unwanted off-axis noise and feedback. Sporting a smooth, wide frequency response with a gradual presence rise and bass roll-off, the Beta 87A produces consistent and controlled results for vocals.
More Details
In Stock
Free 2-Day Shipping
Protect Your Gear
Add a protection plan from $42.99
Ask an Expert
800-606-6969

Shure BETA87A Overview

Add studio-grade clarity to your live mix with the Beta 87A from Shure, a handheld condenser microphone with a tight supercardioid pickup that avoids unwanted off-axis noise and feedback. Sporting a smooth, wide frequency response with a gradual presence rise and bass roll-off, the Beta 87A produces consistent and controlled results for vocals.

With an internal shockmount inside the mic cartridge, the Beta 87A minimizes mechanical shock, avoiding handling noise and sounds caused by accidental bumps. An integrated pop filter reduces plosives like Ps and Ts without any extra accessories, allowing vocalists to remain in view on stage. The Beta 87A offers a wide dynamic range of 117 dB with low distortion characteristics. This microphone features a dent-resistant steel mesh grille and the body is constructed from enamel-coated metal alloy to reduce wear and abuse for years of rigorous touring or studio use. The Beta 87A includes a swivel mic stand adapter and a zippered carrying bag.

Ideal Mic Placement for Vocals
  • At less than 6" away and on axis, you will get a robust sound with emphasized bass and maximum isolation from other sources
  • From 6" to 2' away, just above nose height, you will get a natural sound with reduced bass
  • At 8" to 2' away from the mouth and slightly off to one side, you will produce a natural sound with reduced bass and minimal sibilance
  • At 3 to 6' away, the sound you get is thinner, with noticeable levels of ambient noise
Proximity Effect and Bass Roll-Off
Unidirectional (cardioid) microphones progressively boost bass frequencies by 6 to 10 dB below 100 Hz when the microphone is at a distance of about a 1/4" from the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound.

To prevent explosive low-frequency sound during close-up use, the bass response gradually rolls off. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of the proximity effect.

Focused Supercardioid Pickup
The highly focused supercardioid pickup of the Beta 87A puts the spotlight on your voice, avoiding unwanted off-axis sounds from the rear and sides. This helps to not only improve the quality and clarity of your vocals, but also greatly reduces the chances of feedback, making it an ideal companion for professional results on the stage.
UPC: 042406054744

Shure BETA87A Specs

Key Specs
Microphone Type
Handheld
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Controls
No
Frequency Response
50 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
140 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD, 1-Kilohm Load)
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Microphone
Microphone Type
Handheld
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Element Type
Electret Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Orientation
End Address
Controls
No
Pad
No
Circuitry
Solid-State
Performance
Frequency Response
50 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
140 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD, 1-Kilohm Load)
Sensitivity
-52 dBV/Pa
Dynamic Range
117 dB (1 kHz, 1-Kilohm Load)
Equivalent Noise Level
23 dB (A-Weighted, Typical)
Connectivity
Analog Output Connector
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
11 to 52 V
Physical
Color
Gray
Dimensions
ø: 2 x L: 7.6" / ø: 51 x L: 192 mm
Weight
7.05 oz / 0.2 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.25 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.1 x 5 x 3.3"

Shure BETA87A Reviews

Best all around Mic

By Jennifer
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2025-06-20

Recently purchased a new beta 87A to replace my old one, which lasted decades. I use this for studio recording and live vocals. Very versatile and sturdy enough for live performances.

The Absolute ALL AROUND Microphone

By Jason
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-11-06

Outstanding clarity on vocals. Fantastic resistance to proximity effect. Need to mic an acoustic? Slap it right up there and go. This mic is great for male and female vocals, along with various sundry uses as well. If you need to upgrade your SM series mic to something better, this is your choice. This is my GO TO vocal mic.

See any errors on this page?

question

which Mic is better for talk, the shure beta87a or the shure Beta58A?
Asked by: Anonymous
This is very dependent on the person who will be using it and also the area you will be using it in. Female vocals will sound very different than male vocals. Regardless on the frequency response alone, the Beta87a being a condenser it will give you much more clarity and more definition for speech. where the Beta58a will give you a more well rounded sound and will be better in louder environments. It very much depends on who and where you will be using these microphones.
Answered by: Product Expert
Date published: 2023-11-13
  • y_2026, m_6, d_5, h_14CST
  • bvseo_bulk, prod_bvqa, vn_bulk_3.0.46
  • cp_1, bvpage1
  • co_hasquestionsanswers, tq_1
  • loc_en_US, sid_127123, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=HAS_STAFF_ANSWERS, direction=DESCENDING)]
  • clientName_bhphotovideo
Whatever You Need, We've Got It