Shure VP88 Stereo Condenser Microphone

The Shure Model VP88 is a single-point, stereo condenser microphone for use in professional studio recording, field production, electronic news gathering (ENG), and studio broadcasting applications. It combines two condenser cartridges in a single housing to create a stereo audio image of the sound source. It is unique in its ability to capture the realism of a live event and yet withstand rigorous field production environments.

One cartridge (Mid) faces forward to capture on-axis sound using a cardioid pickup pattern. The other cartridge (Side) is bi-directional, capturing sound from either side. The VP88 contains an internal M-S matrix with three settings for different degrees of stereo image separation. The internal matrix can be bypassed if an external matrix is used or if stereo imaging is done in post-production.

Shure VP88 Features

• Time-coherent, Mid-Side (M-S) design for optimal stereo imaging
• Built-in stereo matrix for direct control of the stereo spread; direct M-S outputs available
• Mono compatibility ideal for broadcast applications
• Low noise and distortion
• Wide dynamic range
• Switch-selectable, low-frequency rolloff (12 dB/octave below 80 Hz) for reduced pickup of ambient noise and stand vibration
• Operates on phantom power or a 6V camera battery
• LED power indicator
• Internal shock mount for reduced stand vibration and handling noise
• Built-in "pop" screen

• VP88 stereo condenser microphone1
• Swivel adapter1
• Windscreen1
• Y splitter cable1
• Batter1
• Carrying bag1

• Transducer Typesingle-point stereo (MS configuration) condenser
• Polar PatternMid Cartridge - cardioid / Side Cartridge - bidirectional
• Frequency Response40 Hz - 20 kHz
• Rated Output Impedance150 ohms (100 ohms actual)
• Sensitivity (open circuit voltage, @ 1 kHz, MS Mode)-66 dB (0.5 mV)
• Max. SPL
  • 800 ohms Load: 129 dB
  • 150 ohms Load: 119 dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio70 dB
• Dynamic Range105 dB maximum SPL, A-weighted
• Clipping Level (@1kHz, 1% THD)
  • 800 ohms Load
  • Mid Cartridge: -12 dBV (0.25 V)
  • Side Cartridge: -10 dBV (0.30 V)
  • 150 ohms Load
  • Mid Cartridge: -25 dBV (0.06 V)
  • Side Cartridge: -19 dBV (0.11 V)
• Self Noise (equivalent SPL)24 dBA-weighted, 28 dBtypical
• Hum Pickup-4 dB equivalent SPL in a 1millioersted field (60XXXXXXXXXXXX)
• HousingBrass and nickel-plated aluminum construction with stainless steel grille; finished in satin black vinyl enamel
• Power Requirements9–52 V DC[4] phantom power (IEC-61938), 1.3 mAoutput, 2.6 mAtotal
• Battery
  • Type: 6 Vcylindrical
  • Lifetime: 70 hours
  • Current Drain: 2.4mA total
• Overvoltage Protectionmax. external voltage applied to Pins 2 through 5 with respect to Pin 1: ± 75 Vdc
• Weight14.7 oz

About Condenser Microphones at Sound Productions

Achieve professional polish to your studio sound with condenser microphones from Sound Productions. A condenser microphone uses a capacitor that converts sound vibrations into electric currents. It is characterized by increased sound sensitivity than a dynamic mic, enabling it to capture more natural, detailed audio from vocals and instruments.

Use a large-diaphragm condenser mic (sometimes called a “capacitor mic”) to optimize the sound of vocals, acoustic guitar, and ambient room audio. Alternatively, choose a small diaphragm condenser mic (or “pencil mic”) for acoustic instruments including guitars, classical instruments, cymbals, and drum overheads. The smaller capsule and lightweight build make it easy to place perfectly in almost any miking application, while the consistent polar pattern makes a pair of small-diaphragm condenser mics the perfect choice for stereo miking.

Compared to the other popular option of dynamic microphones, condenser mics are louder, pick up a wider frequency response, and enjoy an expansive dynamic range—all aspects that make them ideal for studio recording.