The Shure Beta 87A is a premium quality supercardioid hand-held electret condenser vocal microphone with exceptionally smooth frequency response and high sound pressure level capability. Used for professional sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and studio recording applications, the Beta 87A combines superb performance with the ruggedness needed for touring and field production.

The Beta 87A features a controlled low-frequency roll-off that compensates for proximity effect and prevents the “boomy” sound often associated with close pick-up. The characteristic Shure presence rise brightens the upper midrange. The tight supercardioid pattern, with null points at approximately 125 degrees, provides maximum isolation from other vocalists or instruments while offering minimal off-axis coloration. The Beta 87A operates on phantom power.

Cartridge Type

Condenser (electret bias)

Frequency Response

50 to 20,000 Hz

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Polar Pattern

Supercardioid

Output Impedance

Rated at 150 ohms (100 ohms actual +/- 20%)

Recommended minimum load impedance: 800 ohms

Sensitivity (at 1,000 Hz)

Open Circuit Voltage -52.5 dBV/Pa (2 mV)

(1 Pa = 94 dB SPL)

Clipping Level (at 1,000 Hz)

1000 ohm Load: -6 dBV (0.5 V)

Maximum SPL (at 1,000 Hz)

140.5 dB (0.25% THD, 1000 ohm load)

Self-Noise

(equivalent sound pressure level; measured with true rms voltmeter)

23.5 dB typical, A-weighted

25.5 dB typical, weighted per DIN 45 405

Dynamic Range

117 dB (maximum SPL to A-weighted noise level)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

70.5 dB at 94 dB SPL (IEC 651)

(S/N ratio is difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise A-weighted.)

Polarity

Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3

Power

Phantom Supply Requirement: 11 to 52 Vdc, positive at both pins 2 and 3

Current Drain: 1.0 to 1.2 mA

Connector

Three-pin (XLR) professional audio

Case

Aluminum construction with blue metallic finish, and hardened steel grille with nickel satin chrome plating