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Shure SM81 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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Shure SM81 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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Gold Coverage Protection
Protect your gear
Gold Coverage Protection
Gold Coverage goes above and beyond the manufacturer's warranty to protect your gear from unexpected breakdowns, accidental damage from handling and failures. This plan covers your product for one, two, three or up to five years from your date of purchase, costs just pennies per day and gives you a complete "no-worry" solution for protecting your investment.
Gold Coverage Includes:
- Unexpected and unintentional spills, drops and cracks
- Normal wear and tear
- Power surges
- Dust, internal heat and humidity
Other plan features include:
- For products over $200, No Lemon Policy applies. If it fails for the same defect 3 times, it is replaced on the 4th breakdown. (Does not apply to failures due to drops, spills, and cracks)
- For products under $200 experiencing the above failures, a Musician's Friend gift card will be issued for the full price of the product + tax.
- Shipping fees covered if required for repair or replacement
- Plans are transferable in the event merchandise is sold
- Plans are renewable on new gear
*Limitations and exclusions apply. See terms and conditions (Opens in new window) for program details
Term for New Gear begins on date of purchase but does not replace the store return policy or manufacturer coverage.
Industry-standard mic renowned for sonic accuracy in stage and studio performances.
The Shure SM81 condenser microphone is a highly sensitive yet durable mic ideal for any studio. With its wide frequency response and low self-noise, the SM81 captures vocals and acoustic instruments with stunning clarity and nuance. Its cardioid polar pattern focuses on sound sources directly in front of the mic, reducing unwanted ambient noise.
Pristine Audio Quality for Vocals and Acoustics
The SM81's extended frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz captures the nuances of any performance. Its low self-noise means no hiss or hum to distract from the audio. The SM81's condenser capsule is highly sensitive, allowing it to pick up the subtle details of vocals, acoustic guitars, pianos and percussion. The mic's flat frequency response provides an uncolored sound, letting the true tone of the instrument or voice shine through.
Versatile Polar Pattern for Focused or Ambient Recording
With the flip of a switch, you can change the SM81 from a cardioid to omnidirectional polar pattern. In cardioid mode, the mic focuses on sound sources directly in front of it, reducing ambient room noise. This focused pickup is ideal for recording vocals or solo acoustic instruments. In omnidirectional mode, the mic picks up sound evenly from all directions, capturing more of the ambient room reverberation. Omnidirectional mode works well for ensemble recordings where blending multiple audio sources is desired.
Roadworthy Design for Studio and Live Use
Despite its sensitivity, the SM81 is a rugged mic able to withstand the rigors of studio and live use. Its sturdy metal chassis protects the condenser capsule from damage. The SM81 operates on standard 48V phantom power and performs reliably in a range of temperatures and humidity levels. An included swivel mount, windscreen and carrying case provide flexibility in mic placement and transportation. The SM81's durable build and included accessories make it suitable for studio and live-sound applications.
Additional Accessories for Optimized Performance
Optional accessories like shockmounts, pop filters and boom arms (all sold separately) allow you to optimize the SM81 for your needs. A shockmount reduces vibration and handling noise for the clearest capture of sound. Pop filters prevent plosives from distorting your recordings. Boom arms provide flexibility in mic positioning, allowing you to capture sound from multiple angles and heights. With these additional tools, you can customize the SM81 to suit any recording scenario.
Features
- 20Hz–20kHz frequency response
- Flat response curve for accurate sound reproduction
- Low-noise and high-output clipping level
- Low distortion over a wide range of load impedances
- Cardioid polar pattern with maximum rejection
Order this popular mic today for your next projects.
SM81 Cardioid Condenser Microphone Specifications:
Audio- Analog or digital: Analog
- Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
- Max SPL: 146dB
- Connectivity: XLR
- Capsule: Condenser
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Type: Mounted
- Switches: Yes
- Phantom power required: Yes
- Diameter: 2"
- Length: 7.56"
- Weight: 1.37 lb.
- Case: Yes
- Clip: Yes
- Shockmount: N/A
- Power supply: N/A
- Cable: No
- Stand: No
Questions & Answers
Do you have questions about this product?
- Free Standard Ground shipping (48 contiguous states, some overweight and Used/Vintage items excluded).
- Orders placed before 3 p.m. ET usually ship the same business day.
Every guitar or bass you purchase from Musician's Friend (electric or acoustic, New or Open Box) includes two years of protection from manufacturer defects.
Our Gear Advisers are available to guide you through your entire shopping experience. Call or Chat for expert advice and to hear the latest deals.