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The Shure SM81 is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser built for acoustic instruments: guitar, piano, cymbals, strings and percussion. It has a wide 20 Hz to 20 kHz response, low self-noise, a selectable low-frequency roll-off (flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave) and a lockable 0 dB/10 dB attenuator, and it runs on 12 to 48 V phantom power. Its steel body and tolerance of heat and humidity make it a common touring and live-broadcast choice. Against rivals like the AKG C451B and Audio-Technica AT4041 it is the heavier, more rugged option with switchable pads and filters, and it has long been a studio and stage standard for overheads and acoustic guitar.
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Owners and reviewers treat the SM81 as a dependable workhorse for acoustic instruments, praising its natural, uncolored capture and its ability to take abuse on the road. Complaints are few and mostly about its need for phantom power and its plain, utilitarian character rather than any sound flaw.
The Shure SM81 is a condenser microphone for instruments. It is designed for studio recording, live broadcasting, and sound reinforcement. It is used with acoustic instruments, particularly guitar, piano, and cymbals. It has a wide frequency response, low noise, and low RF susceptibility.
The SM81 has a cardioid polar pattern that rejects off-axis sound. Its frequency response is uniform and symmetrical around its axis, which makes the mic easy to aim. It also has low self-noise from handling and mechanical sources.
The construction is steel. The mic can operate across a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. It has phantom power, a selectable low-frequency response, and a lockable 0 dB/10 dB attenuator switch.
