Shure QLXD2 SM86

The Shure QLXD2/SM86 is the handheld transmitter for the QLX-D digital wireless system, built around the SM86 cardioid condenser vocal capsule. The SM86 gives a lead vocal the clarity and detail of a condenser with a tailored presence peak, and its cardioid pattern rejects off-axis sound to guard against feedback in live sound reinforcement. QLX-D carries transparent 24-bit digital audio with a 120 dB dynamic range and 2.9 ms of latency, so the sound stays natural from stage to console.

An infrared sync window pairs the transmitter to its receiver at the touch of a button, and the system spans a 64 MHz tuning bandwidth with up to 2560 selectable frequencies to steer clear of interference. AES-256 encryption secures the signal. The aluminum housing runs up to 9 hours on two AA batteries, or accepts the optional SB900B lithium-ion rechargeable battery that displays remaining runtime in hours and minutes. The capsule is interchangeable with other Shure QLX-D handheld cartridges.