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Review Summary
Accidents happen. Protect your favorite Adorama products and purchase a protection plan to stay covered from accidental damage, mechanical or electrical failures, and more.
If we can’t fix it, we’ll replace it at no additional cost.
Protect your product from drops, spills, and more.
Enjoy your gear without fear. We have you covered!
When regular use of your product over time results in mechanical or electrical failure.
We will never charge you a deductible after the purchase of a plan.
Our claims process is simple & easy and our customer service team is happy to help.
Adorama Protect powered by Extend is available for purchase to customers in the United States. Not available for international or U.S. territories purchases. Plans on open box items do not cover pre-existing damage.
Adorama Protect plans are available for ABS clients. If you have any questions or require assistanse, please call 800-223-2500
Browse our FAQ
Condenser (electret bias)
Studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement,
A standard for applications involving acoustic instruments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.
20 to 20,000 Hz
Cardioid (unidirectional) response½uniform 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)
Sensitivity (at 1,000 Hz) Open Circuit Voltage 45 dBV/Pascal (5.6 mV) (1 Pascal = 94 dB SPL)
Clipping Level (at 1,000 Hz) 800 ½½ Load .4 dBV (0.63 V) 150 ½½ Load .15 dBV (0.18 V)
Total Harmonic Distortion Less than 0.5% (131 dB SPL at 250 Hz into 800 . load )
Output Configuration and Connector Balanced, transformer-coupled output; male XLR connector
Positive pressure produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3
212 mm / 8.34 in./ in length, and 23 1/2 mm / 0.92 in./ in diameter. ( Handle diameter: 20.1 mm / 5/32 in. )
230 grams (8 oz)
Supply Voltage 11 to 52 Vdc, positive, pins 2 and 3 / Current Drain 1.2 mA max.
The SM81 requires phantom power. This may be supplied to the microphone by a mixer, preamplifier or console with built-in phantom power or from an external power supply (such as the Shure model PS1A). Phantom power sources providing between 11 and 52 Vdc are suitable.
042406051194
Become a master of sound capture with the Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Handheld Wired Microphone. This professional-grade microphone is engineered for studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement, making it a versatile choice for a variety of audio applications.
The SM81-LC is renowned for its wide frequency response, which enables it to accurately capture the full range of acoustic sounds. From the delicate strumming of a guitar to the resonant chords of a piano, and the sharp crash of cymbals, this microphone ensures every note is recorded with precision.
Its low noise characteristics and low RF susceptibility further enhance its performance, providing clean, clear audio free from interference. This makes the SM81-LC an industry standard for recording acoustic instruments and other sound sources that require a high level of detail and clarity.
Constructed with durability in mind, the SM81-LC is designed to operate efficiently across a wide range of temperatures and humidity conditions. This makes it a reliable choice for both indoor and outdoor recording sessions.
The microphone is powered by phantom power, ensuring consistent performance even in demanding environments. It comes equipped with a swivel adapter for flexible positioning, an attenuator-switch lock for controlling sound levels, and a foam windscreen to minimize wind noise and plosive sounds.
For ease of transport and storage, the SM81-LC is accompanied by a sturdy carrying case. Whether you're a professional recording artist, a podcaster, or a sound engineer, the Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Handheld Wired Microphone with 10db Attenuator is a sound investment in high-quality audio capture.