Beta Microphones

Application-specific microphones engineered for reproduction of fine details in demanding environments.

SuperCardioid Polar Pattern
Screens unwanted sound sources. Ideal for individual instruments in a multi-microphone setting, or single sources in noisy environments.
Tailored Frequency Response
Smooth, extended response. Tuned to accentuate specific types of instruments, or voices.

BETA 87AVocal Microphone

Shure
Condenser
Lightweight, sensitive diaphragm. Precisely and smoothly captures sound nuances. Powered by battery or phantom power supply.
Recommended Uses
Live Vocals
Studio Vocals

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.

Go Wireless View wireless systems that include a wireless version of this microphone

  • Smooth frequency response with gradual presence rise
  • Highly consistent supercardioid polar pattern provides superior gain-before-feedback
  • Electronic low-frequency roll-off compensates for proximity effect
  • Wide dynamic range (117 dB) and low distortion characteristics
  • Very low susceptibility to RFI and electromagnetic hum
  • Advanced cartridge shock-mount system absorbs mechanical shocks and reduces handling noise
  • Built-in pop filter reduces undesirable wind and breath sounds
  • Legendary Shure quality and reliability
Spec Sheet

Cartridge Type
Condenser (electret bias)
Frequency Response
50 to 20,000 Hz
Response Curve Image Small Beta87A View Larger
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
Dimensions
See User Guide
Net Weight
207 grams (7.6 oz)

 

shName Availability

RK312 Factory Original Beta87 Microphone Replacement Grille

Factory original dent resistant replacement grille for Shure Beta87A and Beta87C wired microphones and wireless transmitters.

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R193 Cartridge for Beta 87 and Beta 87A

Direct replacement cartridge for the Shure Beta 87 and Beta 87A Microphones.

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A55M Shock Mount Microphone Clip

Isolation mount and swivel adapter securely attaches Shure models SM57, SM58, SM86, Beta57A, Beta58A, Beta87A, and Beta87C to standard microphone stands.

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A25D Microphone Clip

Securely mounts the SM58, SM57, SM87A, Beta 87A, Beta 87C and all other microphones with 3/4-inch and larger handles to a standard microphone stand.

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A55HM Snap-in "Shock Stopper" Mount

Shock Stopper Isolation Mount/Swivel Adapter, Half Mount, for SM57, SM58, Beta 57A, Beta 58A, Beta 87A, Beta 87C or any Shure tapered handle mic.

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A85WS Microphone Windscreen

Reduces unwanted breath and wind noise. For use with Shure microphones such as the Beta 87A, Beta 87C, SM87A, and SM86 microphones. Available in black.

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User Guides Language File Size
BETA 87A User Guide English, French, German, Italian, Spanish 197 (kb)
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