Shure SM86 Cardioid Vocal Microphone

The Shure SM86 is a unidirectional (cardioid) condenser vocal microphone for professional use in live performance. An extremely rugged microphone, the SM86 withstands the rigors of touring while delivering studio-quality sound. The tailored frequency response of the SM86 reproduces vocals with clarity. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise, and a two-stage pop filter reduces wind and breath "pop" noise. The SM86 is an excellent selection. For use with both stage monitors and personal in-ear monitors.

Features: 

• Condenser cartridge for studio quality sound
• Tailored frequency response for a clear reproduction of vocals
• Rugged construction withstands the rigors of touring sound
• Cardioid polar pattern minimizes unwanted background noise
• Excellent choice for stage monitors and personal monitors
• Built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise
• Two-stage "pop" filter reduces wind and breath noise

Proximity Effect

Unidirectional (cardioid) microphones progressively boost bass frequencies by 6 to 10 dB below 100 Hz when the microphone is at a distance of about 6 mm (1/4 in.) from the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. To prevent explosive low frequency sound during close-up use, the bass response gradually rolls off. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of proximity effect.

Avoiding Pickup of Unwanted Sound Sources

Place the microphone so that unwanted sound sources, such as monitors and loudspeakers, are directly behind it. To minimize feedback and ensure optimum rejection of unwanted sound, always test microphone placement before a performance.

Recommended Loudspeaker Locations for Cardioid Microphones

General Rules for Use

• Do not cover any part of the microphone grille with your hand, as this will adversely affect microphone performance.
• Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source (such as the talker, singer, or instrument) and away from unwanted sources.
• Place the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source.
• Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.
• Use only one microphone to pick up a single sound source.
• For better gain before feedback, use fewer microphones.
• Keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each microphone to its source (“three to one rule”).
• Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces.
• Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.
• Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.

Operation

Power

The SM86 requires phantom power. This may be supplied to the microphone from an external power supply (such as the Shure model PS1A) or directly from preamplifi ers, mixers, or consoles with built-in phantom power. Suitable sources should provide 11 to 52 Vdc phantom voltage.

Impedance

A load impedance of at least 600 Ohms is recommended. The load may be as low as 150 Ohms, but a reduction in output level and output clipping level will result.

Specifications

Type

Electret Condenser

Frequency Response

50 to 18,000 Hz

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Output Impedance

at 1kHz: 150  Ω

Sensitivity

at 1kHz, open circuit voltage: -50  dBV/Pa (3.15  mV)[1]

Output Clipping Level

1 kΩ load, at 1 kHz: + 3  dBV (1.41  V)

Maximum SPL

1 kΩ load, 1% THD: 147  dB

Self Noise

23 dB typical, A-Weighted

Dynamic Range

1 kΩ load: 124  dB

Signal-To-Noise Ratio

71  dB[2]

Polarity

Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3

Power Requirements

Phantom Power: 11 to 52 V DC

Current Drain: 5.2 mA

Connector

Three-Pin Professional Audio Connector

Housing

Dark gray, enamel-painted, die cast metal; matte-finished, silver colored, spherical steel mesh grille

Weight

Net: 278 g (9.8  oz.)

Environmental Conditions

Operating Temperature: -18° to 60° C (0° to 135° F)

Storage Temperature: -29° to 74° C (-20° to 165° F)

Relative Humidity: 0 to 90%

[1] 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL [2] S/N ratio is difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise A-weighted.

Typical Frequency Response

Typical Polar Pattern

Overall Dimensions

SM86 Block Diagram

Accessories

Furnished Accessories

Optional Accessories

Certifications

This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking.

The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance

Authorized European representative:

Shure Europe GmbH

Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa

Department: EMEA Approval

Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12

75031 Eppingen, Germany

Phone: 49-7262-92 49 0

Fax: 49-7262-92 49 11 4

Email: info@shure.de