Shure SM81-LC - Condenser microphone
Shure SM81 is a professional cardioid condenser microphone for acoustic instruments. It offers a flat frequency response, low self-noise, a -10 dB pad, and a three-position low-cut filter. With its robust construction and resistance to EMI, it’s suitable for both studio and live use. Perfect for recording guitars, pianos, choirs, and cymbals. Includes mic clip, case, and thread adapter.
Limited availability
Shure SM81 – Premium Condenser Microphone for Acoustic Instruments
Shure SM81 is a globally acclaimed cardioid condenser microphone designed for the most demanding sound engineers. With its flat, natural frequency response and precision sound reproduction, the SM81 has become a standard in professional studios and live performance settings. It’s the ideal tool for capturing acoustic guitars, pianos, strings, choirs, cymbals, and other dynamic sources with high fidelity.
Natural Sound and Full Control
The SM81 delivers a flat frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring transparent and accurate audio capture. It features a -10 dB pad for handling high SPL sources without distortion and a three-position low-cut filter (flat, -6 dB/oct, -18 dB/oct) to reduce low-frequency rumble, proximity effect, or stage noise. These onboard controls give engineers maximum flexibility right at the source.
Built for Demanding Conditions
Its robust metal housing protects the internal components from mechanical damage and electromagnetic interference. With an impressively low self-noise of only 18 dB(A), the SM81 excels at capturing subtle audio nuances. It operates reliably across a wide temperature and humidity range, making it suitable for outdoor and live stage use as well as in studio environments.
Typical Applications
- Acoustic guitar
- Piano
- Drum overheads / cymbals
- String and brass instruments
- Choirs and ambient recordings
Technical Specifications
- Type: Electret condenser microphone
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: -45 dBV/Pa (5.6 mV/Pa)
- Self-noise: 18 dB(A)
- Max SPL: 136 dB (pad off), 146 dB (pad on)
- Pad: -10 dB (switchable)
- Low-cut filter: flat / -6 dB / -18 dB per octave
- Phantom power: 12–48 V
- Weight: 230 g
Included in the Box
- Shure SM81 microphone
- Microphone clip
- Protective case
- Thread adapter
Summary
Shure SM81 is an essential tool for any sound engineer who values top-tier audio quality and precision. Whether in a studio or on stage, it delivers reliable performance, natural tone, and professional versatility that make it a long-term investment in excellent sound.
Product delivery details Shure SM81-LC - Condenser microphone
Shipment from Warsaw, Poland.
Delivery to
If you wish to see more accurate shipping methods available in your location, fill the fields above.
Ask question about product
Shure SM81-LC - Condenser microphone - Frequently asked questions.
What is the Shure SM81 best used for?
It's ideal for recording acoustic guitar, piano, cymbals, choirs, strings, and other detailed acoustic sources.
Can I use the SM81 for live performances?
Yes, it's built for durability and stable performance in both studio and stage environments.
What polar pattern does it use?
Cardioid – it focuses on sound from the front and reduces ambient noise from sides and rear.
Does it have a pad switch?
Yes, a -10 dB pad lets you record louder sources without distortion.
Is there a low-cut filter?
Yes – it offers flat, -6 dB, and -18 dB/oct settings for controlling low frequencies.
What power does it require?
It operates with phantom power from 12 to 48 volts.
What’s the self-noise level?
Only 18 dB(A) – ideal for high-resolution recordings.
What’s included in the box?
The microphone, clip, case, and thread adapter.