Shure SM81-LC Condenser Instrument Microphone

The cardioid condenser instrument microphone features a wide frequency response, low self-noise, flat response curve, high output attenuation level, low distortion, and stable performance across various load impedances, providing low RF sensitivity.

The SM81 is an excellent choice for a professional musician or sound engineer who wants to mic acoustic instruments such as acoustic guitar, piano, and cymbals. Its high quality makes it ideal for use on stage and also delivers successful results in recording studios.

The SM81 is a condenser microphone with a flat response curve to accurately reproduce the sound source. It also offers the option to modify the sound with a bass cut switch. The 0dB/10dB lockable attenuator switch provides additional flexibility for miking high sound sources and the cardioid polar pattern minimizes handling noise while isolating the main sound source.

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

• Flat Response Curve: Flat curve to accurately reproduce sound sources.

• Low Noise and High Output Attenuation Level.

• Low distortion across a wide range of load impedances.

• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Symmetrical with frequency and provides minimum coloration of off-axis sounds with maximum rejection.

• Low RF Sensitivity.

• Selectable Low-Frequency Response: Flat, 6, or 18 dB/octave cut.

• 0 dB/10 dB Lockable Attenuator Switch

• Phantom Power: 12 to 48 Vdc compliant with DIN 45 596 standards

• Durable steel construction

• Suitable for use in wide temperature and humidity conditions

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

SM81-LC

Type

Electric Condenser

Frequency Response

20 Hz to 20,000 Hz

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Output Impedance

EIA 150 Ω (Actual 85 Ω)

Sensitivity

1 kHz, open circuit voltage:
-45 dBV/Pa (5.6 mV)

Maximum SPL

1 kHz, 1% THD, 1 kΩ load:
136 dB SPL

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

Reference: 94 dB SPL @ 1 kHz
78 dB

Clip Level

1 kHz, 0.25% THD, 1 kΩ load:
-4 dBV (0.63 V)

Hum Pickup

Typical, at 60 Hz, equivalent SPL/mOe:
-3 dB

Polarity

Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3.

Weight

Net: 0.230 kg (0.5 lbs)
Packaged: 0.740 kg (1.625 lbs)

Attenuator Switch

0 or -10 dB, lockable

Connection

Three-pin professional audio (XLR), female

Case

Steel construction with vinyl metallic paint finish and stainless steel mesh grille

Environmental Conditions

Operating Temperature: -6.7°C to 49°C (20°F to 120°F)
Storage Temperature: -29°C to 74°C (-20°F to 165°F)
Relative Humidity: 0 to 95%

Power Requirements

11 to 52 V DC phantom power (1.2 mA)

Note

1 Pa = 94 dB SPL

Note

S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and the equivalent SPL of self-noise, A-weighted.