MODEL SM81
UNIDIRECTIONAL CONDENSER MICROPHONE
The Shure Model SM81 is a high-quality, unidirectional
condenser microphone designed for studio recording, broad-
casting, and sound reinforcement. Its wide frequency re-
sponse, low noise characteristics, and low RF susceptibility
have made it a standard for applications involving acoustic in-
struments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.
The SM81 is ruggedly constructed. It operates on phantom
power and performs over a wide range of temperatures and hu-
midity conditions. It is furnished with a swivel adapter, attenua-
tor-switch lock, foam windscreen, and case for carrying and
storage. Other accessories are available.
Model SM81 Features
• 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
• Flat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound
sources
• Low noise and high output clipping level
• Low distortion over a wide range of load impedances
• Cardioid polar pattern, uniform with frequency and symme-
tric about axis, providing maximum rejection and minimum
coloration of off-axis sounds
• Low RF susceptibility
• Selectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave
rolloff
• 0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switch
• Phantom powering (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 Vdc)
• Rugged steel construction for durability
• Field-usable over wide range of temperature and humidity
conditions
SPECIFICATIONS
Type
Condenser (electret bias)
Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz (see Figure 1)
20 200001000
10000
50 100
98765432
98765432
+10
0
–10
Hz
dB
1 METER
TYPICAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE
FIGURE 1
Polar Pattern
Cardioid (unidirectional) response—uniform with
frequency, symmetrical about axis (see Figure 2)
150
o
120
o
150
o
120
o
180
o
30
o
60
o
90
o
30
o
60
o
90
o
–5 dB
–10 dB
–15 dB
–20 dB
0
500 kHz
100 Hz
1 kHz
150
o
120
o
150
o
120
o
180
o
30
o
60
o
90
o
30
o
60
o
90
o
–5 dB
–10 dB
–15 dB
–20 dB
0
2 kHz
5 kHz
10 kHz
TYPICAL POLAR PATTERNS
FIGURE 2
Output Impedance
Rated at 150 Ω (85 Ω actual)
Recommended minimum load impedance: 800 Ω (May
be used with loads as low as 150 Ω with reduced clip-
ping level)
Output Configuration and Connector
Balanced, transformer-coupled output; male XLR con-
nector
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 Ω Load –4 dBV (0.63 V). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
150 Ω Load –15 dBV (0.18 V). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Harmonic Distortion
Less than 0.5% (131 dB SPL at 250 Hz into 800 Ω load)
Model SM81 User Guide
27B2916 (BJ)
E2002, Shure Incorporated
Printed in U.S.A.