Shure BETA87C Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone

The Shure BETA87C is a handheld electret condenser vocal microphone designed for stage performance, live recording, and studio vocal work. Its cardioid pickup pattern focuses on the performer while helping reduce sound entering from the rear and sides. It is suited to singers who need a wired vocal microphone with phantom-powered condenser operation.

The BETA87C has a smooth vocal response with a slight presence rise, intended to retain clarity while supporting a warm, natural overall character. Its controlled low-frequency roll-off helps manage proximity effect during close vocal use. This makes it practical for performers who work close to the microphone for isolation and monitoring.

A uniform cardioid pattern provides consistent pickup behavior and minimal off-axis tonal coloration. Positioning unwanted sound sources, including stage monitors, behind the microphone supports its rear rejection characteristics. The pattern is particularly useful for vocalists using personal in-ear monitoring systems.

The microphone combines an advanced cartridge shock-mount system with a built-in three-stage pop filter. These features help reduce handling-related mechanical noise as well as breath and wind noise during close singing. Its hardened steel-mesh grille and metal housing are designed for regular touring and sound-reinforcement use.

The BETA87C connects through a balanced three-pin XLR output and requires phantom power from a compatible mixer, interface, preamp, or external phantom-power supply. It performs best with a 48 V DC phantom-power source and can operate from 11 to 52 V DC. The included swivel adapter and carrying bag provide the basics needed to mount, transport, and store the microphone.

Key Features

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern: Focuses on the vocalist while providing rear rejection of unwanted sound.
• Electret Condenser Capsule: Delivers phantom-powered condenser performance for vocal applications.
• Three-Stage Pop Filter: Helps reduce breath pops and wind noise during close use.
• Controlled Proximity Response: Low-frequency roll-off helps manage excessive bass buildup near the grille.
• Internal Shock Mount: Helps minimize handling noise and mechanical vibration reaching the cartridge.
• Hardened Steel Grille: Provides durable protection for regular stage and touring use.

Design & Installation

The BETA87C uses an aluminum body with a painted blue metallic finish and a hardened steel grille with nickel satin chrome plating. Its internal cartridge shock mount is intended to reduce mechanical vibration, while the dent-resistant grille protects the capsule area. The microphone measures 192 mm long, with a 51 mm grille diameter and a 21 mm body diameter.

Connect the male XLR output to a balanced XLR microphone cable and a mixer, preamp, audio interface, or phantom-power supply that provides 11 to 52 V DC phantom power; 48 V DC is preferred. Mount it with the included A25D swivel adapter on a compatible microphone stand, and aim the rear of the cardioid microphone toward unwanted sound sources or monitors. For outdoor use, Shure recommends adding a windscreen.