Shure
Shure BETA 181/BI Instrument Condenser Microphone
The Shure BETA 181/BI is an ultra-compact, small-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for discreet placement in demanding live and studio settings. It offers exceptional versatility through interchangeable polar pattern capsules, ensuring consistent, textbook polar responses even in the tightest conditions. This KIT version includes all four patterns (Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Bidirectional) plus a compact Preamplifier with integrated XLR connections. Its precision design features a secure locking ring, and the frequency response is tailored for wide dynamic range applications, making it suitable for high SPL environments. The package is completed with a stand adapter, windscreen, and a protective carrying case.
$1159.00
More Beta Options
Shure Beta 56A
$170.00
Shure Beta 98AD/C Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Gooseneck Drum Microphone
$259.00
Shure Beta 87A
$654.00
Shure Beta 57A
$119.00
Shure Beta 52A
$149.00
Shure BETA 87A
$260.00
Shure Beta 58A
$170.99
Shure Beta 87A
$289.00
Shure Beta 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone
$279.99
Shure BETA 58A
$189.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
193
/ 1735
#193 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+128%
Above average
Microphone Type
Condenser
/ Condenser
Who it's for
- Exceptional Clarity and Detail
- Highly Compact and Discreet Design
- True Bidirectional Polar Pattern
Who should skip it
- High Price Point
- Requires Phantom Power
- Sensitivity to Room Acoustics
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Condenser
Diaphragm Size
Small-diaphragm
Polar Patterns Included
Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional
Connectivity Technology
XLR
Dimensions
Ultra-compact
Intended Use
Instrument recording, live environments, studio environments
Model Number
BETA 181/BI
Style
KIT (All 4 Polar patterns)
Features
- Interchangeable capsules for four polar patterns
- Ultra-compact, side-address design
- Precision-engineered with locking ring
- Tailored frequency response for wide dynamic range
- Ideal for high SPL environments
- Integrated XLR on compact preamplifier
- Superior audio quality from small diaphragm
- Ships with essential accessories
What customers say
Professionals highly value the Shure BETA 181/BI for its exceptional sonic transparency and accuracy. Users consistently praise its robust, professional build quality, ensuring reliability in demanding settings. This bidirectional capsule excels at capturing detailed audio, making it perfect for advanced stereo techniques and managing high sound pressure levels from loud sources. While the initial cost is premium, reviewers agree the performance rivals much more expensive small diaphragm condensers. The consensus is that this microphone is a precision instrument delivering outstanding, high fidelity audio capture, making it a worthwhile investment for serious recording work.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$1159