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Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone

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    The Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone is perfect for acoustic guitarists and Instrumentalists. The SM81 lets you reproduce your instrument with the highest fidelity.
    The razor flat 20 to 20K frequency response of this low impedance, unidirectional, cardioid condenser mic is faithful to every nuance of your expression. Built-in 10Db attenuator. Requires phantom power from board or external source.

    The Shure SM81 is a high-quality, unidirectional condenser microphone designed for studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement. Its wide frequency response, low noise characteristics, and low RF susceptibility have made it a standard for applications involving acoustic instruments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.

    The SM81 is ruggedly constructed. It operates on phantom power and performs over a wide range of temperatures and humidity conditions. It is furnished with a swivel adapter, attenuator-switch lock, foam windscreen, and case for carrying and storage. Other accessories are available.

    Shure SM81Features
    • A standard for acoustic instruments, including guitar and cymbals
    • 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, providing maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis sounds
    • 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
    • Field-usable over wide range of temperature and humidity conditions
    • Windscreen included



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    Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone Specifications

    Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone Specifications
    Product Specifications

    Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone Specifications

    • Type: Condenser (electret bias)
    • Frequency Response: 20 to 20,000 Hz
    • Polar Pattern: Cardioid (unidirectional) response—uniform with frequency, symmetrical about axis
    • Output Impedance:
      • Rated at 150 ohms (85 Ohms actual)
      • Recommended minimum load impedance: 800 Ohms (May be used with loads as low as 150 Ohms with reduced clipping level)
    • Output Configuration and Connector: Balanced, transformer-coupled output; male XLR connector
    • Output Level (at 1,000 Hz):
      • Open Circuit Voltage:
        • –45 dBV/Pascal (5.6 mV) –65 dBV/mbar
    • Clipping Level (at 1,000 Hz):
      • 800 Ohm Load: –4 dBV (0.63 V)
      • 150 Ohm Load: -15 dBV (0.18 V)
    • Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.5% (131 dB SPL at 250 Hz into 800 Ohm load)
    • Maximum SPL (at 1,000 Hz):
      • 800 Ohm load: 136 dB (attenuator at 0), 146 dB (attenuator at –10)
      • 150 Ohm load: 128 dB (attenuator at ), 138 dB (attenuator art -10)
    • Hum Pickup: -3 dB equivalent SPL in a 1 mOe field (60 Hz)
    • Self Noise (equivalent sound pressure levels; measured with true rms voltmeter):
      • 16 dB typical, A-weighted
      • 19 dB typical, weighted per DIN 45 405
    • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 78 dB (IEC 651)* at 94 dB SPL (*S/N ratio is difference between microphone output at 94 dB SPL and microphone self-noise A-weighted.)
    • Overvoltage and Reverse Polarity Protection:
      • Max. external voltage applied to pins 2 and 3 with respect to pin 1: + 52 Vdc
      • Reverse polarity protection: 200 mA max (diode-clamped)
    • Polarity: Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3.
    • Cartridge Capacitance: 54 pF
    • Low Frequency Response Switch Positions: Flat; –6 dB/octave below 100 Hz; –18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
    • Attenuator Switch Positions (Lockable): 0 or -10 dB
    • Power:
      • Supply Voltage: 11 to 52 Vdc, positive, pins 2 and 3
      • Current Drain: 1.2 mA max
    • Environmental Conditions:
      • Storage Temperature: -29 to 74 degrees C (-20 to 165 degrees F)
      • Operating Temperature: -6.7 to 49 degrees C (20 to 120 degrees F)
      • Storage Humidity: 0-95% relative humidity at room temperature (72 to 80 degrees F, 22 to 27 degrees C)
    • Case: Steel construction with vinyl metallic paint finish and stainless steel screens
    • Overall Dimensions: 212 mm x 23.5 mm
    • Weight:
      • Net: 230 grams (8 oz.)
      • Packaged: 740 grams (1 lb. 10 oz.)
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