Shure Beta87A

The Shure Beta 87A is a premium supercardioid handheld condenser vocal microphone known for its smooth, detailed sound and touring-grade durability. Its tailored frequency response, gradual presence rise, and controlled low-frequency roll-off make it ideal for close-up lead and background vocals, especially on loud stages. It’s a go-to choice for singers who want condenser clarity with the feedback rejection and ruggedness of a live mic.

Highlights

• Supercardioid electret condenser for high gain before feedback
• Smooth 50 Hz-20 kHz response with gradual presence rise
• Controlled low-frequency roll-off reduces proximity boom
• Handles high SPL with low distortion
• Advanced cartridge shock mount minimizes handling noise
• Hardened steel grille; low RFI and hum susceptibility

Shure Beta 87A: Condenser Detail for the Live Stage

Many singers move from a dynamic mic to the Beta 87A for its open top end and natural detail. The gradual presence rise brightens the upper midrange so vocals cut through a band, while the controlled roll-off keeps close-up singing from sounding boomy. The result is a polished, studio-like vocal sound on stage.

Supercardioid Feedback Control

The tight supercardioid pattern stays uniform across the frequency range, rejecting sound from the sides for higher gain before feedback and less bleed from drums, guitar amps, and other singers. Position floor wedges in the mic’s rear null points to get the most monitor level.

Setting Up the Beta 87A

Connect the Beta 87A to your mixer with a balanced XLR cable and turn on phantom power; it performs best at 48 VDC and works down to 11 VDC. Sing close for warmth, back off slightly on loud passages, and set monitor wedges behind the mic’s null points.

What to Pair With the Beta 87A

Pair the Beta 87A with a mixer or interface with phantom power, a sturdy mic stand, quality XLR cables, a pop filter for studio use, and in-ear monitors or floor wedges. For a wireless version, Shure offers Beta 87A capsules for many of its handheld transmitters.

Studio and Broadcast Use

The Beta 87A’s smooth response and low handling noise also make it useful for studio vocals, voiceover, and broadcast, giving you one mic that moves easily from stage to studio.

Beta 87A vs. Dynamic Vocal Mics

Compared to dynamic mics like the SM58 or Beta 58A, the Beta 87A captures more detail and air in the high frequencies, with a more transparent sound. It needs phantom power but rewards singers with a more polished vocal.

Mic Technique and Care

Keep a consistent distance of one to three inches for a full, even vocal, and avoid cupping the grille, which changes the polar pattern and invites feedback. Wipe the grille after each use, store the mic in its pouch, and remember to switch on phantom power before raising the channel fader.

Shure Beta 87A FAQ

Does it need phantom power? Yes. It requires phantom power and performs best at 48 VDC.

Is it good for loud stages? Yes. Its supercardioid pattern and high SPL handling suit loud live environments.

Shure Beta 87A Specifications at a Glance

• Type: electret condenser vocal microphone
• Polar pattern: supercardioid
• Frequency response: 50 Hz-20 kHz
• Output impedance: 150 ohms rated
• Power: phantom, 11-52 VDC
• Connector: 3-pin XLR
• Construction: hardened steel grille, shock-mounted cartridge

Who Buys the Shure Beta 87A

• Lead and backing vocalists
• Touring bands
• Churches and worship teams
• Broadcast and studio users

Why Buy the Shure Beta 87A 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 vocal mics and support your system after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

Browse more options in our Vocal Microphones category, or see the full specifications on the official Shure Beta 87A product page.