Shure Beta 98AMP/C

The Shure Beta 98AMP/C is a miniature cardioid condenser drum microphone with a flexible gooseneck and integrated XLR preamp. Designed for snares, toms, and percussion, its small capsule positions close to the drum head without getting in the player’s way, while the A75M universal mount clamps securely to rims and hardware. Exceptional SPL handling and a wide frequency response make it ideal for both live sound and recording.

Highlights

• Miniature cardioid electret condenser capsule
• 20 Hz-20 kHz response tailored for drums and percussion
• Handles up to 157.5 dB SPL (2500 ohm load)
• Integrated preamp and XLR connector; no beltpack needed
• Flexible gooseneck for precise placement
• Includes A75M universal mount, snap-fit windscreen, and zipper pouch

Shure Beta 98AMP/C: Big Drum Sound From a Tiny Mic

The Beta 98AMP/C captures the crack of snares and the body of toms with the detail of a condenser, from a capsule small enough to tuck between drums and cymbals. Its uniform cardioid pattern provides high gain before feedback and rejects bleed from neighboring drums and cymbals for a cleaner mix.

Integrated Preamp Simplifies Setup

The preamplifier and XLR connector are built into the mic body, so there’s no separate preamp or cable adapter to manage. Plug in a standard XLR cable, turn on phantom power, and you’re ready to go, with minimal stage clutter.

Setting Up the Beta 98AMP/C

Clamp the A75M mount to the drum rim, attach the mic, and bend the gooseneck so the capsule sits one to two inches above the head, angled toward the center. Keep it clear of drumsticks, connect an XLR cable, and turn on phantom power (11-52 VDC, best at 48 VDC).

What to Pair With the Beta 98AMP/C

Pair the Beta 98AMP/C with a Shure Beta 91A or Beta 52A for kick drum, overhead condenser mics, XLR cables, a mixer or interface with phantom power, and the optional A53M Shock Stopper isolation mount.

Specifications That Matter for Drums

With a self-noise of just 31 dB SPL-A and a dynamic range up to 126.5 dB, the Beta 98AMP/C captures quiet ghost notes and hard rimshots with equal clarity. Shure recommends a mixer input load of at least 1000 ohms for full headroom.

Live and Studio Versatility

Beyond snares and toms, the Beta 98AMP/C works well on congas, timbales, and other hand percussion. Its low profile keeps sightlines clear on stage and in video productions.

Care and Handling

Avoid twisting the gooseneck into extreme positions, which can permanently damage it, and check that the clamp is tight before each show so stick hits don’t loosen it. Use the snap-fit windscreen to protect the capsule, and store the mic in its zipper pouch when it’s not on the kit.

Shure Beta 98AMP/C FAQ

Does it need a separate preamp? No. The preamp and XLR connector are integrated.

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

Shure Beta 98AMP/C Specifications at a Glance

• Type: electret condenser drum microphone
• Polar pattern: cardioid
• Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -50.5 dBV/Pa (2.5 mV)
• Maximum SPL: 157.5 dB (2500 ohm load), 153 dB (1000 ohm load)
• Self noise: 31 dB SPL-A
• Output impedance: 150 ohms
• Power: 11-52 VDC phantom

Who Buys the Shure Beta 98AMP/C

• Drummers and touring bands
• Churches and worship teams
• Recording studios
• Live sound companies

Why Buy the Shure Beta 98AMP/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 mic your drum kit and support your system after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

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