Shure Beta 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone

Overview

The Shure BETA87A is a handheld condenser microphone designed specifically for vocal performances in live venues and recording environments. It features an electret condenser capsule with a supercardioid pickup pattern that focuses on the singer’s voice while minimizing stage noise and feedback. Covering a frequency range from 50 Hz to 20 kHz, it delivers clear and detailed vocals with a presence boost that helps voices stand out in complex mixes.

Built to withstand the demands of touring and regular use, the microphone includes an internal shockmount to reduce handling noise and a built-in pop filter to control plosives without needing an external screen. Its durable metal alloy body and steel mesh grille ensure reliability in various performance settings.

Key features

• Electret condenser capsule with supercardioid pattern for focused vocal pickup and reduced background noise
• Frequency response tailored to enhance vocal clarity with a gentle low-frequency roll-off to prevent boominess
• Internal shockmount that absorbs handling noise for cleaner sound during performances
• Built-in pop filter integrated into the grille to manage plosive sounds without extra accessories
• Wide dynamic range of 117 dB and high maximum SPL of 140 dB to handle both soft and powerful vocals without distortion
• Operates on phantom power from 11 to 52 volts, compatible with standard professional audio equipment
• Standard three-pin XLR output for reliable analog connection to mixers and audio interfaces

Key specs

• Frequency response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
• Pickup pattern: Supercardioid
• Dynamic range: 117 dB
• Maximum SPL: 140 dB at 1% THD
• Power requirements: Phantom power 11 to 52 volts
• Output connector: Standard three-pin XLR
• Capsule type: Electret condenser

Performance and reliability

The BETA87A is engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality vocal reproduction in demanding live and studio environments. Its supercardioid pattern provides excellent feedback rejection, making it a strong choice for front-of-house engineers and performers who need clear vocals without interference from other stage sounds. The internal shockmount and built-in pop filter contribute to a clean signal by reducing unwanted noise and plosives, ensuring that subtle vocal nuances are captured accurately.

Its robust construction with a metal alloy body and steel mesh grille means it can endure the rigors of touring and frequent handling, maintaining performance over time.

Ideal uses and environments

This microphone suits a variety of vocal applications, from live concerts and worship services to home studio recordings. It works well for singers who require a microphone that can handle both soft passages and powerful belting without distortion. The focused pickup pattern and built-in noise control features make it a reliable option for environments where stage bleed and feedback are concerns.

Whether you are a professional vocalist, worship leader, or recording artist, the BETA87A offers a balance of clarity, durability, and feedback resistance that supports confident performances and recordings.