Shure
Shure BETA 181/C Cardioid Condenser Instrument Mic
★★★★★
CondenserXLR
Capture Instruments with Precision and VersatilityThe Shure BETA 181/C is an ultra-compact, small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for discreet placement and control in live and studio environments. Featuring interchangeable cardioid polar pattern, it delivers superior audio for a variety ...
$469.00*
View on Amazon
✓ In Stock on Amazon.com
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.
Affiliate Disclosure: Studio Supplies may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our editorial team.
Notice a mistake? Let Us Know
Overview
Capture Instruments with Precision and Versatility
The Shure BETA 181/C is an ultra-compact, small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for discreet placement and control in live and studio environments. Featuring interchangeable cardioid polar pattern, it delivers superior audio for a variety of instruments.
Specifications
- Type: Ultra-Compact Small-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Connector: 3-pin XLR
- Design: Side-Address
- Includes: Stand adapter, windscreen, and carrying case
- Features: Interchangeable polar pattern capsules attach to a compact Preamplifier with integrated XLR connections
Key Features
Interchangeable polar pattern capsules attach to a compact Preamplifier with integrated XLR connections for the ultimate in low-profile application flexibility (Each BETA 181 Ships with one polar pattern capsule and one XLR Preamplifier)
Precision-engineered, compact side-address design features innovative locking ring to provide secure connection between capsule and Preamplifier
Frequency response tailored for wide dynamic range applications for use in high SPL environments
Furnished with stand adapter, windscreen and carrying case (carrying case will securely protect up to four polar pattern capsules)
Specifications
Microphone Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Design
Side-address
Connectivity
Integrated XLR
Included Accessories
Stand adapter, windscreen, carrying case
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Features an interchangeable polar pattern capsule system for flexible application use.
- Compact side-address design with a secure locking ring ensures reliable capsule-preamplifier connection.
- Tailored frequency response supports wide dynamic range in high SPL environments for clear audio capture.
- Includes essential accessories like a stand adapter, windscreen, and a protective carrying case.
- The carrying case is designed to securely protect multiple polar pattern capsules, enhancing versatility.
👎 Cons
- Requires specific Shure interchangeable capsules for changing polar patterns, which may be an additional purchase.
- The compact side-address design might require careful positioning in some studio setups.
- The microphone is sensitive to high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs), necessitating proper gain staging.
- While the kit includes a stand adapter, a separate microphone stand is still required for operation.
- The carrying case protects up to four capsules, but only one capsule is included with this specific BETA 181/C model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of polar pattern does the Shure BETA 181/C offer?
The Shure BETA 181/C comes with a cardioid polar pattern capsule, designed to capture sound primarily from the front while rejecting sounds from the sides and rear.
Is the capsule interchangeable on this microphone?
Yes, the Shure BETA 181/C features interchangeable polar pattern capsules that attach to a compact preamplifier, allowing for application flexibility.
What kind of environments is this microphone best suited for?
This microphone has a frequency response tailored for wide dynamic range applications and is suitable for use in high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) environments.
What accessories are included with the Shure BETA 181/C?
The microphone is furnished with a stand adapter, a windscreen, and a carrying case that can securely protect up to four polar pattern capsules.
How does the locking ring feature work on this microphone?
The precision-engineered locking ring on the compact side-address design provides a secure and stable connection between the capsule and the preamplifier, ensuring reliability during use.
Related Products
