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Shure SM81 Facts: 125 Specifications & 51 Highlights

Before you commit to the Shure SM81 microphone, check out these 125 specs & features — especially top-voted ones like general information, dimensions & weight, audio performance & connectivity & interfaces from the Soundfindr community.

53 Points
Shure SM81

Highlights 51

No extras. Just what matters.
53 Points

Why is Shure SM81 better than other microphones ?

General Information

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Dimensions & Weight

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Audio Performance

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Connectivity & Interfaces

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Power & Battery

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Controls & Features

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Build & Design

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Package & Accessories

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Certification & Compliance

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Advanced Features

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Quick Take

The essentials that matter—nothing extra

A fast snapshot of the Shure SM81, covering its standout specification and what you can expect right out of the box.

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

The Shure SM81 is a durable small-diaphragm condenser mic delivering precise, natural sound. Its flat response and versatile controls make it ideal for acoustic instruments and drum overheads.

Specifications & Facts 125

Specs measured. Drama avoided.

Looking to upgrade? Check the Shure SM81 microphone with full details: price, 125 features, pros and cons, and how it stacks up vs top microphones.

General Information 18

Shure SM81 Country of Origin

What is the country of origin?

80 Shure SM81 0 Votes United States

38 Microphones in this range China

Manufacturing or design origin.

Shure SM81 Intended Use

What is the intended use?

75 Shure SM81 0 Votes Studio, Live, Broadcast

40 Microphones in this range Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Instrument, Streaming

Describes the primary application area.

Shure SM81 Model Name

What is the model name?

69 Shure SM81 0 Votes SM81

38 Microphones in this range Super 55 Deluxe

The specific product identifier from the manufacturer.

Shure SM81 Compatibility

Which devices or platforms are compatible?

43 Shure SM81 0 Votes PC, Mac, Audio Interface, Mixer

37 Microphones in this range Mixer, Audio Interface, PA System

Lists supported platforms and devices.

Shure SM81 Form Factor

What is the form factor?

50 Shure SM81 0 Votes Handheld

38 Microphones in this range Handheld

Describes the physical style of the microphone.

Shure SM81 Polar Pattern Type

What is the polar pattern type?

60 Shure SM81 0 Votes Cardioid

40 Microphones in this range Cardioid

Identifies the default pickup pattern.

Dimensions & Weight 6

Shure SM81 Width

What is the width?

1.63 inch 0Votes
Shure SM81
2.83 inch (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

At about 4.1 cm wide, the SM81 is slim and easy to handle on any mic stand. Its compact width makes it simple to position around instruments or in tight studio spaces.

The microphone’s overall width.

Shure SM81 Depth

What is the depth?

0.93 inch 0Votes
Shure SM81
3.39 inch (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Measuring roughly 2.36 cm long, it’s about the size of a pencil, making it easy to carry and store. This compact length helps it fit naturally into any live or studio setup.

The microphone’s overall depth.

Shure SM81 Weight

What is the weight?

0.47 lbs 0Votes
Shure SM81
1.23 lbs (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Weighing only around 213 grams, the SM81 feels light and balanced in hand. Its low weight reduces strain when mounted on a boom or stand for long sessions.

The microphone’s physical weight.

Shure SM81 Cable Length

What is the cable length?

25 ft 0Votes
Shure SM81
11.05 ft (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

The included 7.6-meter cable gives you excellent reach for both studio and stage use. You can easily connect to mixers or interfaces even at a distance.

Length of the included or integrated cable.

Shure SM81 Mounting Thread Size

What is the mounting thread size?

80 Shure SM81 0 Votes 5/8"

39 Microphones in this range 5/8"

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Uses the industry-standard 1.6 cm thread size, fitting most professional mic stands perfectly. This ensures quick, secure mounting without the need for adapters.

The thread size for mounting compatibility.

Shure SM81 Height

What is the height?

8.34 inch 0Votes
Shure SM81
7.42 inch (Average)

The microphone’s overall height.

Audio Performance 18

Shure SM81 Frequency Response (Min)

What is the minimum frequency response?

20 Hz 0Votes
Shure SM81
32.99 Hz (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Captures deep bass tones starting at 20 Hz, perfect for full-bodied recordings. You’ll hear every nuance from low-end instruments like bass guitars or kick drums.

The lowest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM81 Frequency Response (Max)

What is the maximum frequency response?

20,000 Hz 0Votes
Shure SM81
19,018.5 Hz (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Reaches up to 20 kHz, delivering bright, detailed highs ideal for acoustic instruments or cymbals. The wide range ensures natural, studio-quality sound reproduction.

The highest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM81 Sensitivity

What is the sensitivity?

-45 dBV/Pa 0Votes
Shure SM81
-39.49 dBV/Pa (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Offers clear and accurate pickup for subtle sounds like strings or vocals. This sensitivity makes it great for professional studio recording.

Output level relative to sound pressure.

Shure SM81 Signal-to-Noise Ratio

What is the SNR?

78 dB 0Votes
Shure SM81
76.98 dB (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Provides a clean signal with very little background noise. It’s ideal for quiet recording environments where clarity matters.

The clarity ratio between signal and background noise.

Shure SM81 Max SPL

What is the maximum SPL?

136 dB 0Votes
Shure SM81
138.59 dB (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Handles loud sound sources without distortion, perfect for drums or brass instruments. You can record high-energy performances confidently without overload.

The maximum loudness before distortion.

Shure SM81 Output Impedance

What is the output impedance?

150 ohm 0Votes
Shure SM81
486.95 ohm (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Works smoothly with most professional mixers and preamps. The balanced output ensures a clean, noise-free signal even with long cables.

Electrical resistance of the microphone’s output.

Connectivity & Interfaces 10

Shure SM81 Connection Interface

What is the connection interface?

30 Shure SM81 0 Votes XLR

36 Microphones in this range XLR

Defines the main interface for connectivity.

Shure SM81 Cable Detachable

Is the cable detachable?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether the cable can be detached or replaced.

Shure SM81 Audio Output Options

What are the audio output options?

30 Shure SM81 0 Votes Analog

36 Microphones in this range Analog, Balanced

Lists output signal formats available.

Shure SM81 Phantom Power Support

Does it support phantom power?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether the mic supports phantom power.

Shure SM81 Multi-Device Pairing

Does it support multi-device pairing?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.

Shure SM81 Balanced/Unbalanced Output

What is the output type?

90 Shure SM81 0 Votes Balanced

39 Microphones in this range Balanced

Defines the type of electrical signal output.

Power & Battery 6

Shure SM81 Power Source

What is the power source?

70 Shure SM81 0 Votes Phantom

38 Microphones in this range Phantom

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Runs on phantom power, which most professional interfaces and mixers supply. There’s no need for batteries, keeping your setup simple and reliable.

Defines how the microphone is powered.

Shure SM81 Phantom Power Requirement

What is the phantom power requirement?

48 Volt 0Votes
Shure SM81
45.74 Volt (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Requires a standard 48V phantom power connection found in most studio gear. This ensures consistent performance and sound stability.

Specifies the phantom power voltage needed.

Shure SM81 Auto Power-Off

Does it have auto power-off?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether the microphone shuts down automatically when idle.

Shure SM81 Replaceable Battery Support

Does it support replaceable batteries?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if batteries can be swapped.

Shure SM81 External Power Supply Compatibility

Is it compatible with an external power supply?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Can the mic run on external AC/DC supply.

Shure SM81 Power Indicator Light

Does it have a power indicator light?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a light shows power/battery status.

Controls & Features 18

Shure SM81 Onboard Controls

What onboard controls are available?

29 Shure SM81 0 Votes Buttons, Knobs

23 Microphones in this range Switches

Types of direct physical controls.

Shure SM81 Mute Function

Does it have a mute function?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to mute audio directly on the mic.

Shure SM81 Gain Control

Does it have gain control?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to adjust input gain directly.

Shure SM81 Headphone Monitoring

Does it support headphone monitoring?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Direct monitoring via headphone output.

Shure SM81 Monitoring Mix Control

Does it have monitoring mix control?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Lets user adjust mic vs playback audio mix.

Shure SM81 Touch/Motion Controls

Does it support touch/motion controls?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Allows interaction via touch gestures or motion.

Build & Design 16

Shure SM81 Body Material

What is the body material?

60 Shure SM81 0 Votes Steel

38 Microphones in this range Metal

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Built with a tough steel body that resists wear and dents. It’s made to last through years of recording and touring.

The main structural material of the microphone body.

Shure SM81 Shock Mount

Is a shock mount included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Comes with a shock mount that reduces unwanted vibrations and handling noise. This ensures clear audio even in active environments.

Whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibrations.

Shure SM81 Windscreen

Is a windscreen included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Includes a windscreen to reduce plosive sounds and wind interference. It’s especially handy for outdoor recordings or close-up vocals.

Whether a windscreen is included for wind noise control.

Shure SM81 Corrosion Resistance

Is it corrosion resistant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Designed to resist moisture and oxidation for long-lasting durability. Perfect for humid studios or changing stage conditions.

Indicates if materials resist corrosion.

Shure SM81 Internal Shockmount

Is there an internal shockmount for the capsule?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Features built-in shock isolation to minimize vibration noise. This keeps your recordings clean and professional even during movement.

Capsule isolation that reduces handling noise.

Shure SM81 Pop Filter

Is a pop filter included?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a pop filter is provided for plosive reduction.

Package & Accessories 12

Shure SM81 Cables

Are cables included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Ships with a quality XLR cable ready for plug-and-play use. You can connect directly to your mixer or interface without extra purchases.

Indicates if connecting cables are provided.

Shure SM81 Carrying Case

Is there a carrying case included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Includes a sturdy case that protects the mic during travel. It keeps all accessories organized and safe on the go.

Whether a protective carrying case is part of the package.

Shure SM81 Mounting Clip

Is a mounting clip included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Comes with a secure clip for easy attachment to stands or booms. This allows for fast setup and flexible positioning.

Whether a clip for attaching to stands/instruments is included.

Shure SM81 Protective Foam Insert

Is protective foam included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

The case features a foam insert that cushions the mic from impact. It adds an extra layer of protection during transport or storage.

Indicates if protective foam is part of packaging.

Shure SM81 Stand/Tripod

Is a stand/tripod included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a stand or tripod is included in the box.

Shure SM81 Adapters

Are adapters included?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

States if adapter(s) are included (e.g., XLR to 3.5mm).

Certification & Compliance 6

Shure SM81 Warranty

What is the warranty period?

2 years 0Votes
Shure SM81
2.8 years (Average)

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Covered by Shure’s 2-year limited warranty for peace of mind. You’re protected against defects in materials or workmanship.

Duration of manufacturer warranty coverage.

Shure SM81 Safety Compliance

Is it safety compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates adherence to safety regulations.

Shure SM81 Environmental Compliance

Is it environmentally compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Compliance with eco/environmental regulations.

Shure SM81 FCC/CE Approval

Is it FCC/CE approved?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Explicit FCC/CE compliance approval.

Shure SM81 RoHS Compliance

Is it RoHS compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive compliance.

Shure SM81 Professional Broadcast Certification

Is it broadcast certified?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if the mic meets pro broadcast standards.

Advanced Features 15

Shure SM81 Smart Assistant Compatibility

Is it compatible with smart assistants?

81 Shure SM81 0 Votes Alexa, Google Assistant

65 Microphones in this range Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant

Shure SM81
Shure SM81

Can integrate with voice assistants through compatible audio interfaces. This adds flexibility for smart studio or content creation setups.

Integration with voice assistants.

Shure SM81 Hum-Compensating Coil

Does it have a hum-compensating coil?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if the mic includes a humbucking coil to reduce electrical interference.

Shure SM81 Multi-Pattern Switching

Does it support multi-pattern switching?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to switch between multiple pickup patterns.

Shure SM81 DSP Processing

Does it include DSP processing?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Built-in digital signal processing for sound shaping.

Shure SM81 AI Noise Cancellation

Does it feature AI noise cancellation?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

AI-powered suppression of background noise.

Shure SM81 Beamforming Technology

Does it support beamforming?

No 0Votes Shure SM81

Yes Microphones in this range

Uses mic arrays to focus on sound sources.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Shure SM81 Sound Quality

How would you rate the sound quality of this microphone?

Crisp and professional 0Votes
Good and clear 0Votes
Average clarity 0Votes
Distorted and unclear 0Votes

Shure SM81 Noise Handling

How well does this microphone handle background noise?

Blocks out most noise 0Votes
Handles noise fairly well 0Votes
Reduces some noise 0Votes
Picks up everything 0Votes

Shure SM81 Battery Life

How long does the battery last on this microphone?

Excellent — Over 20 hours 0Votes
Long lasting — 10 to 20 hours 0Votes
Decent — 5 to 10 hours 0Votes
Short — 2 to 5 hours 0Votes
Very short — Under 2 hours 0Votes

Shure SM81 Durability

How durable is this microphone based on build and lifespan?

Highly durable — Over 4 years 0Votes
Solid — 2 to 4 years 0Votes
Average — 1 to 2 years 0Votes
Very fragile — Less than 1 year 0Votes

Shure SM81 Weight

How heavy is this microphone?

Ultra-light — Under 150 grams 0Votes
Lightweight — 150 to 300 grams 0Votes
Medium — 300 to 500 grams 0Votes
Heavy — 500 to 800 grams 0Votes
Very heavy — Over 800 grams 0Votes

Shure SM81 Design Appeal

How attractive is the design of this microphone?

Plain and boring 0Votes
Somewhat okay 0Votes
Nice looking 0Votes
Stylish and modern 0Votes

Shure SM81 Pricing

How do you feel about the price of this microphone?

Great value for money 0Votes
Pretty good price 0Votes
Fair deal 0Votes
Kinda pricey 0Votes
Crazy expensive 0Votes

Shure SM81 Sensitivity

How sensitive is this microphone to capturing sound?

Very sensitive — Detects quiet sounds clearly 0Votes
Sensitive — Captures a wide sound range 0Votes
Moderate — Picks up normal voice levels well 0Votes
Low — Needs to be close to sound source 0Votes
Very low — Struggles to capture soft voices 0Votes

Shure SM81 Frequency Response Range

What do you think about the frequency response range of this microphone?

Wide range — 20 Hz to 20 kHz 0Votes
Good range — 30 Hz to 18 kHz 0Votes
Decent range — 40 Hz to 16 kHz 0Votes
Limited range — 50 Hz to 14 kHz 0Votes
Narrow range — Above 60 Hz only 0Votes

Shure SM81 Connectivity

How stable and reliable is the connection of this microphone?

Excellent — Always stable, no dropouts 0Votes
Good — Works smoothly with rare issues 0Votes
Decent — Occasional minor disconnections 0Votes
Weak — Disconnects sometimes 0Votes
Poor — Frequently loses connection 0Votes

Guides 1

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Shure SM81 Guide

Shure SM81 Guide

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