Shure SM 81 condenser instrument microphone

Shure SM 81 condenser instrument microphone
Product no: TM-SM81LC Bax Music Warranty: This product comes with a 3-year warranty.

General

The Shure SM81 is a high-quality cardioid condenser microphone, designed for studio recordings, radio and TV broadcasts, and sound amplification. Its wide frequency response and cardioid pickup pattern raise the bar when it comes to recording acoustic instruments. This Shure microphone was specifically developed for acoustic instruments such as guitar, piano and cymbals.

The Shure SM81 has a rugged metal construction, ensuring it will hold its own on the road. It's phantom-powered and will perform well under a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. The SM 81 condenser instrument microphone comes with a swivel adapter, an attenuator switch lock, a windscreen and a carrying bag. In short, you get a complete package that will meet all your demands.

Tips or comments about this product

Specifications

Product features

Sustainable product	not specified
Microphone sensitivity (dBV/PA)	-54
Microphone impedance	100-149 ohms
Maximum SPL	140 dB - 149 dB
Maximum frequency	20 - 20.9 kHz
Minimum frequency	20 - 21 Hz
Low-cut filter	yes
Pad switch	yes
Polar pattern	cardioid
Stereo	no
Microphone accessories	microphone clip, windshield, bag / box
Interchangable capsules	no

Weight and dimensions including packaging

Weight (incl. packaging)	1,6 kg
Dimensions (incl. packaging)	30,2 x 15,5 x 7,6 cm

Product specifications

frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
flat, wide frequency range for accurate reproduction of diverse sound sources
low-noise and high-output clipping level
internal shock mount eliminates vibrations and noise
cardioid pickup pattern, providing maximum rejection and minimum colouration of off-axis sounds
low RF susceptibility
selectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave roll-off
0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch
phantom power (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 V DC)
rugged metal construction
weight: 230 g

Write a review

Michael May 1, 2026

Wrote the following about Shure SM 81 condenser instrument microphone

Very good value for money small diaphragm condenser. It has a lower output than my other mics, so higher gain is needed. It sounds great on acoustic guitar going through a Grace Designs preamp, fast and detailed but not harsh. I would like to try two for stereo recordings.

Reviews from other countries

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Wilco December 10, 2024

Wrote the following about Shure SM 81 condenser instrument microphone

Gebruik hem MONO voor akoestisch gitaar. Heb de partij tweemaal ingespeeld. Hard links en rechts gepannd. Mijn hemel, dit is echt een wereldmicrofoon. Hij lijkt net iets ronder/warmer te klinken als de KM148 maar absoluut in dezelfde klasse. Details zijn top. Ik ben blij!