Shure Beta 98H/C

The Shure Beta 98H/C is a clip-on miniature cardioid condenser microphone designed for horns, woodwinds, and percussion. It clamps directly onto the bell of a wind instrument or the rim of a drum, and its gooseneck, ratcheting swivel joint, and gooseneck angle brace hold it in the ideal position even during the most active performances. A 10-foot high-flex cable with an in-line transformerless preamp and XLR connector delivers a clean, linear signal to your mixer.

Highlights

• Cardioid condenser capsule with 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response
• Integrated clamp mounts on instrument bells and drum rims
• Gooseneck, ratcheting swivel joint, and angle brace for fixed positioning
• Handles up to 155 dB SPL for loud brass and percussion
• 10 ft high-flex cable with in-line XLR preamp
• Interchangeable cardioid and supercardioid cartridges available

Shure Beta 98H/C: Clip-On Clarity for Horns and Percussion

Because the Beta 98H/C mounts on the instrument itself, it moves with the player, so the sound stays consistent no matter how much they move on stage. The cardioid pattern focuses on the instrument while rejecting nearby sources for high gain before feedback, and the tailored frequency response gives brass and woodwinds an open, natural sound.

Built for the Stage

The compact, lightweight design is nearly invisible to the audience, and the ratcheting swivel joint and angle brace lock the mic in place once it’s positioned. A snap-fit foam windscreen stays put, and Shure’s legendary ruggedness means it holds up night after night on tour.

Setting Up the Beta 98H/C

Clamp the mic to the bell of a horn or the rim of a drum, then adjust the gooseneck so the capsule points toward the sound source. Lock the swivel joint and angle brace, connect the XLR to your mixer or wireless system adapter, and turn on phantom power (11-52 VDC).

What to Pair With the Beta 98H/C

Pair the Beta 98H/C with a mixer or audio interface with phantom power, XLR cables, a spare windscreen, and the optional RPM110 supercardioid cartridge for tighter isolation on loud stages. For wireless use, Shure offers the WB98H/C version with a bodypack connector.

Microphone Placement Tips

On saxophones and trumpets, aim the capsule slightly off the center of the bell to reduce harshness and breath noise. On congas, toms, and snares, point the mic toward the center of the head and adjust the distance to balance attack and body.

Recording and Live Sound

The wide frequency response and high SPL handling make the Beta 98H/C equally at home in the studio and on stage. It’s a favorite for horn sections, worship bands, jazz ensembles, and percussionists who need a dependable, low-profile mic.

Shure Beta 98H/C FAQ

Does it need phantom power? Yes. It operates on 11-52 VDC phantom power.

Can I use it with a wireless system? This version has an XLR cable for wired use. The WB98H/C version is designed for wireless bodypacks.

Shure Beta 98H/C Specifications at a Glance

• Type: condenser instrument microphone
• Polar pattern: cardioid
• Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -56 dBV/Pa (1.6 mV)
• Maximum SPL: 155 dB SPL (typical)
• Output impedance: 150 ohms
• Power: 11-52 VDC phantom
• Cable: 10 ft with in-line XLR preamp

Who Buys the Shure Beta 98H/C

• Horn and woodwind players
• Percussionists
• Churches and worship bands
• Live sound companies

Why Buy the Shure Beta 98H/C From Metro Sound & Lighting

Metro Sound & Lighting isn’t a catalog-only retailer. We design, install, and service sound systems in-house, so our team can help you choose the right mics and support your system after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

Browse more options in our Instrument Microphones category, or see the full specifications on the official Shure Beta 98H/C product page.