Topic: Shure SM81

[Phil Zone]

Anyone ever used the sm81? I have on that I use for various live sound applications, when I work with band etc. it's got a nice sound, but I never have recorded with it.

What are your opinions on it? The response chart is very flat.....

Thanks

[Gutbucket]

They are kinda bright (in color) if that matters in your venue.

I think Jon means this literally, not figuratively- the microphone body is a visually bright-ish silver color and somewhat long as I recall; it's sonic color is not particularly bright in frequency response.

No?

I'm familiar with the mic but have never used them for audience recording.

[Gutbucket]

An admirable trait!   

Just clarifying for those who may interpret that in an unintended way.

[BonoBeats]

Have used the SM81 for overheads etc but not taping; it's cousin, the KSM137, is my go to for cards on a budget (the 137's big brother the KSM141 provides switchable card/omni for not much more cash).

Given my results with the KSM's, I think you can make the SM81's work- KSM's roll off in the low end a bit more, but has a higher sensitivity rating (make sure you have a good preamp) and are a little cleaner overall. Nothing but positive feedback on my tapes; imagine you'll get good results with the 81's as well.

[Church-Audio]

The new sm81 does not sound like the old sm81.. IMO. They also made a super rare omni version of this mic that does sound amazing. For my ears I was always more fond of the KM184 Or KM84 for overhead or the AKG 451 The sm81 was always the cheap overhead from production companies. I did spec these mics for Church Installs I would do, for Choir mics or just general condenser mics that can be used for almost anything from acoustic guitar to piano. They are a decent sounding condenser mic. But there are much better sounding mics for the same price. The problem I always felt was with the venting of the capsule made it sound very unfocused.  Here is a picture of the rare omni capsule side by side with the cardioid capsule. Shure had a RTA and recommended using the Sm81 With the R104A omni capsule. I had used a pair of omni mics to close my a grand piano the result was nothing short of amazing.