The Shure SM81 is a cardioid condenser instrument microphone designed for professional musicians and sound engineers. It features a flat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound sources, low self-noise, and a high output clipping level. The microphone is suitable for miking acoustic instruments such as acoustic guitar, piano, and cymbals in both stage and recording studio environments.
The Shure SM81 offers a frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with a flat response curve that ensures accurate reproduction of sound sources. It is engineered to provide low noise and a high output clipping level, with low distortion maintained over a wide range of load impedances. The Shure SM81 utilises a cardioid polar pattern that is uniform with frequency and symmetric about the axis, providing maximum rejection and minimum colouration of off-axis sounds.
Operational flexibility is provided through a selectable low-frequency response with options for flat, 6 dB/octave, or 18 dB/octave rolloff. A 0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch allows for additional flexibility when capturing loud sound sources. The unit features low RF susceptibility and requires phantom powering with DIN 45 596 voltages ranging from 12 to 48 Vdc.
Constructed with a rugged steel body, the Shure SM81 is built for durability and is field-usable over a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. The package includes one swivel adapter, one attenuator-switch lock, and one foam windscreen.
Features
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
- 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, uniform with frequency and symmetric about axis
- Low RF susceptibility
- Selectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave rolloff
- 0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch
- Phantom powering (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 Vdc)
- Rugged steel construction for durability