The Shure Beta 87A vocal microphone is precision-engineered to deliver an exceptionally smooth frequency response in a supercardioid condenser design. Built to withstand extreme sound pressure levels (SPL), the Beta 87A is ideal for professional sound reinforcement and studio recording applications.
The tailored frequency response, combined with a controlled low-frequency roll-off, makes this microphone ideal for close-up lead and background vocals—especially in high SPL environments. An advanced cartridge shock mount system, hardened steel-mesh grille, and superior build quality withstand the rigors of daily touring and sound reinforcement.
The following table lists the most common applications and placement techniques. Keep in mind that microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste; there is no one “correct” microphone position.
Application | Suggested Microphone Placement | Tone Quality |
---|---|---|
Vocals | Lips less than 15 cm (6 in.) away or touching the windscreen, on axis to microphone. | Robust sound, emphasized bass, maximum isolation from other sources. |
15 to 60 cm (6 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, just above nose height. | Natural sound, reduced bass. | |
20 to 60 cm (8 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, slightly off to one side. | Natural sound, reduced bass and minimal “s” sounds. | |
90 cm to 1.8 m (3 to 6 ft.) away. | Thinner, distant sound; noticeable levels of ambient noise. |
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.
A supercardioid microphone has the greatest sound rejection at points 120° toward the rear of the microphone. Place the microphone so that unwanted sound sources, such as monitors and loudspeakers, are at these angles, not directly behind it. To minimize feedback and ensure optimum rejection of unwanted sound, always test microphone placement before a performance.
Recommended Loudspeaker Locations for Supercardioid Microphones
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.
Electret Condenser
50 to 20,000 Hz
Supercardioid
100 Ω
at 1kHz,open circuit voltage
-52.5 dBV/Pa(2 mV) [1]
1 kHz at 1% THD,1 kΩ load
140.5 dB
Ref. 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz
70.5 dB
at 1kHz,1 kΩ load
117 dB
1 kHz at 0.25% THD,1 kΩ load
-6 dBV (0.5 V)
typical, equivalent SPL, A-weighted
23.5 dB
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
0.207 kg(0.475 lbs)
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced
Aluminum construction with painted blue metallic finish, and hardened steel grille with nickel satin chrome plating
11 to 52 V DCphantom 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
Zippered Carrying Bag | 95A2314 |
Microphone Clip for SM58, SM57, SM87A, BETA87A, BETA87C, PGA57, PGA58, PGA48, PGA81 | A25D |
Shock Stopper® Isolation Mount | A55HM |
Black Foam Windscreen for KSM8, SM85, SM86, SM87A, BETA87A, and BETA87C | A85WS |
25 foot (7.5m) Triple-Flex® Microphone XLR Cable with chrome connectors | C25F |
Grille for Wired and Wireless BETA87, BETA87A and BETA87C | RK312 |
Cartridge for BETA87 and BETA87A | R193 |
Plug (Connector) Assembly | 90J1984 |
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