Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone

Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone

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14 Reviews
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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

    Item #:SHU SM81LC
    Manufacturer Part Number:SM81LC
    UPC:042406051194
    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.)

    Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone Manuals

    Customer Reviews

    Based on 14 reviews
    Popular topics
    Thomas B. 🇺🇸
    Verified Buyer
    I love the pure clean

    I love the pure clean sound I'm getting

    Product reviewed: Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone
    Published date
    10/13/25
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    Roosevelt C. 🇺🇸
    Verified Buyer
    The best

    This Mic here is the absolute king especially when it comes to recording acoustic guitars you can’t go wrong with this one . Through the years I have used different mics and to be honest with you some of them was OK but this one right here I see nothing else that can be better than this might as esp...

    Published date
    02/05/24
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    Ben01930 🇺🇸
    Verified Buyer
    SM81 - Good? Great?

    I bought this mic based on it's review history, and recommendations from more experieced users. I had never heard it in person. In all transparency, this is the first (and only) small diaphragm condenser mic I've owned in my modest home studio, so i can not compare it to others for you. However, wha...

    Published date
    10/19/23
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    Lorenzo 🇺🇸
    Verified Buyer
    A Workhorse Classic

    This mic can be used on almost anything. Fairly neutral, but lacks "presence" compared to higher-end mics like Neumann KM184s. The newer Shure KSM137/141 have probably a bit more depth and definitely more top end detail. But where this excels - percussion, overheads, certain styles of piano playing....

    Published date
    12/05/22
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    J.G. 🇺🇸
    Verified Buyer
    Great One !

    Best for acoustic guitar but can serve many tasks. High frequency string instruments really shine and works also great as an overhead. I like using it with any large condenser for a complete acoustic guitar sound. I have tried many pencil mics and this one always wins.

    Published date
    11/05/22
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