Description
Shure PGA81 is a cardioid condenser microphone designed for recording and live use with acoustic instruments. It is part of Shure’s PGA (Performance Gear) line and is aimed at capturing detailed, natural instrument tones.
Key specifications:
Type: Electret condenser
Polar pattern: Cardioid (front-focused pickup, rejects sound from the rear)
Frequency response: 40 Hz – 18 kHz
Output: XLR
Power: 48V phantom power required
Impedance: 600 Ω
Weight: About 186 g
Max SPL: About 129.5 dB SPL (1% THD)
Common uses:
Acoustic guitar
Piano
String instruments (violin, cello, etc.)
Woodwinds and brass
Drum overheads and percussion
Choir/ensemble recording in suitable setups
Sound character:
Fairly flat and natural, designed to reproduce the instrument rather than add heavy coloration.
Good detail in the high frequencies, useful for acoustic instruments.
Less suited for very loud close-miking of guitar amps or kick drums compared with dynamic mics.
Typical placement examples:
Acoustic guitar: 15–30 cm from the 12th fret area, aimed between the neck and sound hole.
Piano: One or two PGA81s above the strings depending on the desired stereo image.
Drum overheads: Pairing two PGA81s can give a clear cymbal and room picture.




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