The BETA 181 from Shure is an ultra-compact, small-diaphragm side-address condenser microphone perfect for miking tight places live on stage or in the studio.
The precision-engineered BETA 181 from Shure is a live-performance microphone known for its durability and reliability and characterized by interchangeable polar pattern options that help you personalize the way you capture your sound. This condenser mic's compact diaphragm design provides superior audio with consistent, textbook polar responses in a form factor small enough to get close to the source in the tightest conditions.
The compact preamp securely attaches to four interchangeable polar pattern capsules including cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional and bidirectional, for maximum versatility from drums to string ensembles. (Each Beta 181 ships with one polar pattern capsule and one XLR preamplifier. More capsules are available separately for custom flexibility.) Select the perfect capsule to meet your needs, whether you’re miking drums, capturing ambient room audio, or performing live on-stage.
The Beta 181 condenser microphone's wide dynamic range expertly handles high sound pressure level environments like snare and tambourine. Its hardened steel-mesh grille resists denting, wear, and abuse. A locking ring provides a secure connection between the capsule and the preamp. The Beta 181 also comes with a stand adapter, a windscreen, and a carrying case that can fit up to four polar pattern capsules.
Available Models
- Beta 181/BI
- Bidirectional polar pattern
- Ideal for mono drum overhead and dual sound sources (such as between tom-toms or acoustic instruments)
- Beta 181/C
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Ideal for drum overheads, piano and acoustic instruments
- Beta 181/O
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- Ideal for mono drum overhead and string ensembles
- Beta 181/S
- Supercardioid polar pattern
- Ideal for snare drum and acoustic instruments
Shure Beta 181 Features
- Interchangeable polar pattern capsules attach to a compact preamplifier with integrated XLR connections for the ultimate in low-profile application flexibility
- Precision-engineered, compact side-address design features innovative locking ring for secure connection between capsule and preamplifier
- Frequency response tailored for wide dynamic range applications for use in high SPL environments
- Beta 181 condenser microphone1
- Mic clip1
- Windscreen1
- Zippered carrying case1
- Transducer TypeCondenser
- Polar PatternsBidirectional (Beta 181/BI), Cardioid (Beta 181/C), Omnidirectional (Beta 181/O), Supercardioid (Beta 181/S)
- Frequency Response20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output Impedance110 ohms
- Max. SPL (1kHz at 1% THD, 1kohms load)
- Beta 181/BI: 153.5dB SPL
- Beta 181/C: 149 dB SPL
- Beta 181/O: 154 dB SPL
- Beta 181/S: 152 dB SPL
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (referenced at 94 dB SPL at 1kHz)
- Beta 181/BI: 71 dB
- Beta 181/C: 73.5 dB
- Beta 181/O: 70.5 dB
- Beta 181/S: 72.5 dB
- Dynamic Range
- Beta 181/BI: 130.5 dB
- Beta 181/C: 128.5 dB
- Beta 181/O: 130.5 dB
- Beta 181/S: 129.5 dB
- Clipping Level (1kHz at 0.25% THD, 1kΩ load)7.5dBV (2.4V)
- Self-Noise (equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical)
- Beta 181/BI: 23 dB
- Beta 181/C: 20.5 dB
- Beta 181/O: 23.5 dB
- Beta 181/S: 22.5 dB
- Power Requirements11–52 VDC phantom power (IEC-61938), 1.2 mA
- Weight5.1 oz
More about Shure Beta Microphones
The Shure Beta Microphone Series were made as an improvement to the SM Series, offering better performance and are the next step up in price for Shure product. In general, Shure Beta mics offer tighter pick-up patterns and allow for higher gain before feedback. These mics have upgraded pop filters and advanced shock mount systems compared to the SM mic line. Recognized for their superior construction, low handling noise, and high SPL levels, Beta Microphones redefine sensitivity and control for essential, expert sound reinforcement. Check out others in the Shure Beta series here.
