Shure SM81-LC

The SM81 is a flat-response cardioid condenser built for the demanding job of capturing acoustic instruments with accuracy. Its wide 20 Hz to 20 kHz response and low self-noise make it a longstanding first call for acoustic guitar, piano, cymbals, and drum overheads, where honest reproduction matters more than a flattering color. The cardioid pattern stays uniform with frequency and symmetric about the axis, so off-axis sound is rejected cleanly without the tonal smearing that plagues lesser condensers.

A selectable low-frequency response (flat, 6, or 18 dB per octave rolloff) tames proximity and stage rumble, and a lockable 0/10 dB attenuator switch lets it handle loud sources up to 146 dB SPL. It runs on 11 to 52V phantom power over a standard 3-pin XLR and is built from rugged steel to work across a wide range of temperature and humidity. The SM81-LC ships with a swivel stand adapter, an attenuator-switch lock, and a foam windscreen.