Shure Beta 91A Condenser Kick Drum Microphone

Shure Beta 91A Condenser Kick Drum Microphone

The Shure Microphone Beta91a is a premier instrument microphone engineered for kick drums, piano, and other bass-heavy applications. Featuring an updated microphone capsule tailored for powerful low-frequency reproduction, the Beta91a delivers superior attack and punch for studio-quality sound—even at extremely high sound pressure levels. Its integrated preamplifier and XLR connection streamline setup and minimize stage clutter, making it an essential tool for both live performance and studio recording.

Key Features

• Premier live performance microphone with legendary Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability

• Uniform half-cardioid polar pattern in the hemisphere above the mounting surface for maximum gain before feedback and superior rejection of off-axis sound

• Tailored frequency response optimized for kick drums and bass-heavy instruments

• Wide dynamic range for use in high SPL environments

• Two-position contour switch enhances attack and clarity

• Integrated preamp and XLR connector reduce stage clutter and provide a quick, secure setup

• Low profile design requires no external mounting hardware

• Steel grille and die-cast metal construction resist wear and abuse

Contour Switch for Enhanced Clarity

A two-position switch on the bottom of the microphone lets you selectively filter the low-mid frequency response without additional tools. The flat response setting provides the most natural sound in most applications, while the low-mid scoop setting tailors the frequency response to deliver a strong punch in the low frequencies and plenty of attack in the higher frequencies.

Applications and Placement

The Beta91a operates as a boundary microphone, picking up sound in a half-cardioid polar pattern in the hemisphere above the mounting surface. For optimal results, keep sound sources within the 60-degree range above this surface. For long-term installations, the microphone can be mounted to a surface using the mounting holes on the bottom of the unit.

Technical Specifications

Specification
Details

Cartridge Type
Electret Condenser

Polar Pattern
Half-cardioid (cardioid in hemisphere above mounting surface)

Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz

Output Impedance (@ 1 kHz)
146 Ω

Sensitivity (open circuit voltage, @ 1 kHz, typical)
–48.5 dBV/Pa (3.8 mV)

Maximum SPL (1 kHz at 1% THD, 2500 Ω load)
155 dB

Maximum SPL (1 kHz at 1% THD, 1000 Ω load)
151 dB

Signal-to-Noise Ratio
64.5 dB

Dynamic Range (@ 1 kHz, 2500 Ω load)
125.5 dB

Dynamic Range (@ 1 kHz, 1000 Ω load)
121.5 dB

Clipping Level (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 1% THD, 2500 Ω load)
12.5 dBV

Clipping Level (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 1% THD, 1000 Ω load)
7.5 dBV

Self Noise (equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical)
29.5 dB SPL-A

Common Mode Rejection (20 Hz to 200 kHz)
≥55 dB

Frequency Contour Switch
7 dB of attenuation centered at 400 Hz

Connector
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced

Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3

Power Requirements
11–52 V DC phantom power (IEC-61938), 5.4 mA

Net Weight
470 g (16.6 oz.)

Dimensions
151.1 mm (5.94 in.) × 139.1 mm (5.48 in.) × 20.3 mm (0.8 in.)

Learn more about Shure

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Why Buy From Marshall Music

At Marshall Music, we’re passionate musicians and audio experts dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear. We offer a massive selection of premium musical instruments, music technology, professional audio equipment, and accessories from the world’s top brands.

Get honest expert advice, competitive prices, fast delivery, and outstanding service from a team that truly understands music. Whether you’re buying your first guitar or building a professional studio, we make sure you get the right equipment at the right price — every time.

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Why Buy From OneStopMusic

At OneStopMusic, we’re passionate musicians and audio experts dedicated to helping you find the perfect gear. We offer a massive selection of premium musical instruments, music technology, professional audio equipment, and accessories from the world’s top brands.

Get honest expert advice, competitive prices, fast delivery, and outstanding service from a team that truly understands music. Whether you’re buying your first guitar or building a professional studio, we make sure you get the right equipment at the right price — every time.

Shop with confidence at OneStopMusic — your trusted one-stop music store.