Description
The Shure Beta 87A (BETA87A) is a handheld supercardioid electret condenser vocal microphone for live singers, broadcast and studio vocals. It covers 50 Hz to 20 kHz, handles 140.5 dB SPL and runs on 11 to 52 V phantom power.
A controlled low-frequency roll-off offsets proximity effect so close-up vocals stay clear instead of boomy, and the characteristic Shure presence rise brightens the upper midrange so voices cut through the mix. The tight supercardioid pattern, with null points at about 125 degrees, gives strong gain before feedback and isolates the singer from nearby vocalists and instruments. An advanced cartridge shock-mount and a built-in pop filter cut handling noise and breath pops, and the steel mesh grille and metal body are built for touring.
Beta 87A specifications
| Type | Electret condenser, handheld vocal microphone |
|---|---|
| Polar pattern | Supercardioid, null points at about 125 degrees |
| Frequency response | 50 Hz to 20 kHz, with presence rise and low-frequency roll-off |
| Sensitivity | -52.5 dBV/Pa (2 mV) at 1 kHz, open circuit |
| Output impedance | 150 ohms |
| Maximum SPL | 140.5 dB (1 kHz at 1% THD, 1k ohm load) |
| Self noise | 23.5 dB typical, equivalent SPL, A-weighted |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 70.5 dB (referenced at 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz) |
| Dynamic range | 117 dB (1 kHz, 1k ohm load) |
| Clipping level | -6 dBV (0.5 V), 1 kHz at 0.25% THD, 1k ohm load |
| Power | 11 to 52 V DC phantom (1.2 mA) |
| Connector | 3-pin professional audio (XLR), male |
| Dimensions | 6.3 in long, 1.7 in diameter (160 x 43 mm) |
| Weight | 0.475 lb (207 g) net |
| In the box | A25D swivel stand adapter, 26A13 carrying and storage bag |
Does the Beta 87A need phantom power?
Yes. It is a condenser microphone and needs 11 to 52 V DC phantom power from your mixer, interface or preamp. It draws 1.2 mA.
Is the Beta 87A good for live vocals?
Yes, that is what it is built for. The supercardioid pattern gives high gain before feedback on loud stages, the low-end roll-off keeps close-up singing from getting boomy, and the shock-mounted cartridge absorbs handling noise.
Can it handle a loud singer?
Yes. Shure rates it at 140.5 dB maximum SPL with 117 dB of dynamic range, so powerful vocalists can work right up on the grille.
Where should floor wedges go with a Beta 87A?
Off to the sides rather than directly behind the mic. A supercardioid rejects sound most strongly at about 125 degrees off axis, so a pair of wedges angled in from the sides sits in its quietest zones.
Beta 87A, Beta 87C or Beta 58A?
The Beta 87A is a supercardioid condenser: 50 Hz to 20 kHz, 140.5 dB maximum SPL, 23.5 dB self noise. The Beta 87C uses the same condenser approach with a cardioid pattern, 139 dB maximum SPL and 22 dB self noise. Its wider pickup and strong rear rejection suit singers who use in-ear monitors. The Beta 58A is a supercardioid dynamic mic that needs no phantom power and covers 50 Hz to 16 kHz. Pick the Beta 87A for detailed, bright condenser vocals with floor wedges, the Beta 87C for in-ear rigs, and the Beta 58A when you want a dynamic mic.
See more in Shure microphones and condenser microphones.
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