Shure SM81

Instrument Microphone

The Shure Model 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.

Features

• Uniform cardioid pick-up pattern for maximum gain before feedback and excellent rejection of off-axis sound
• Flat frequency response for accurate reproduction of sound sources; 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Selectable low frequency response; flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave roll off
• Vinyl-coated steel construction and stainless steel screen resist wear and abuse
• Low noise and high sound pressure level (SPL) handling
• Minimally affected by varying load impedances
• Low susceptibility to RFI
• Lockable 10 dB attenuator switch
• Performs over a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions
• Phantom powered
• Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability

Power Requirements

This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-61938). However, it will operate with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity with supplies as low as 11 Vdc.

Most modern mixers provide phantom power. You must use a balanced microphone cable: XLR-to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS.

Selecting Low-Frequency Response

A three-position switch allows you to adjust the low-frequency response of the microphone. Use these settings to reduce wind noise, room noise or proximity effect.

Flat response provides the most natural sound in most applications.

Low-frequency cutoff attenuates 18 dB-per-octave below 80 Hz. Helps eliminate floor rumble and low-frequency room noise from heating and air conditioning systems. This setting may also be used to compensate for proximity effect or to reduce low frequencies that make an instrument sound dull or muddy.

Low-frequency rolloff attenuates 6 dB-per-octave below 100 Hz. Compensates for proximity effect or to reduce low frequencies that could make an instrument sound dull or muddy.

Setting Attenuation

The attenuation switch reduces the signal level from the cartridge by 10 dB without altering the frequency response. This can prevent extremely high SPLs (e.g., close-miked drums and guitar cabinets) from overloading the microphone. To activate attenuation, rotate the switch to the “–10 dB” position.

NOTE: Turning the ring part way does not produce incremental levels of attenuation.

The attenuation switch may be locked in place. Use the following steps:

1. Unscrew the grille and cartridge assembly.

2. Rotate the attenuation switch to the desired position (0 or –10).

3. Insert the ring lock (small, clear piece of plastic) in the area behind the ring between the pin and slot.

4. Replace the grille and cartridge assembly.

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.

Specifications

Type

Electret Condenser

Frequency Response

20 to 20,000 Hz

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Output Impedance

EIA rated at 150  Ω (85  Ω actual)

Sensitivity

at 1 kHz, open circuit voltage: -45 dBV/Pa[1] (5.6 mV)

Maximum SPL

1 kHz at 1% THD, 1 kΩ load: 136 dB SPL

Signal-To-Noise Ratio

Ref. 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz: 78 dB[2]

Clipping Level

1 kHz at 0.25% THD, 1 kΩ load: -4 dBV (0.63 V)

Hum Pickup

typical, at 60 Hz, equivalent SPL/mOe: -3 dB

Polarity

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

Weight

Net: 0.230 kg (0.5 lbs)

Packaged: 0.740 kg (1.625 lbs)

Attenuator Switch

0 or −10 dB, lockable

Connector

Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male

Housing

Steel construction with vinyl metallic paint finish and stainless steel screens

Environmental Conditions

Operating Temperature: -6,7° to 49° C (20° to 120° F)

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

Relative Humidity: 0 to 95%

Power Requirements

11 to 52 V DC phantom power (1.2  mA)

[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL

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

Block Diagram

Typical Frequency Response

Typical Polar Patterns

Overall Dimensions

Accessories

Furnished Accessories

Optional Accessories

Replacement Parts

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