Shure AD2/B87A Handheld Wireless Microphone Transmitter
Best professional performance for demanding live audio environments.
The Shure AD2/B87A is a professional-grade wireless handheld transmitter featuring a premium BETA 87A supercardioid condenser microphone capsule. As part of Shure's Axient Digital series, it offers signal stability and audio clarity for professional productions. The transmitter supports two transmission modes: Standard for optimal coverage and High Density for maximum channel count. It includes encryption-enabled secure transmission, frequency and power lockout, and a rugged metal construction. The BETA 87A capsule provides a smooth frequency response, high sound pressure level capability, and consistent supercardioid pattern, making it suitable for demanding sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and studio recording applications.
$1334.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
51
/ 254
#51 in Wireless Transmitters
Price vs Category Average
+64%
Above average
Microphone Type
Digital Wireless Handheld
/ Digital Wireless Handheld
Who it's for
- Professional vocalists and presenters demanding superior live audio fidelity.
- Live sound engineers and performers in complex, high-stakes productions.
- Touring musicians and production crews needing resilient, long-lasting equipment.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious users or small venues with limited equipment funds.
- Users without an existing Shure Axient Digital infrastructure.
- Beginners or casual users seeking plug-and-play simplicity.
Performance breakdown
Signal Reliability
Axient Digital technology ensures rock-solid performance in even the busiest environments.
Audio Fidelity
The BETA 87A capsule delivers studio-grade clarity with exceptional transient response.
Build Durability
Rugged metal construction withstands the daily rigors of professional touring life.
Spectrum Efficiency
High Density mode maximizes channel counts for complex, large-scale wireless setups.
Battery Management
Smart rechargeable power options provide reliable runtime for long production days.
Operational Security
Encryption and lockout features prevent unauthorized access and accidental setting changes.
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Digital Wireless Handheld
Capsule Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid
Spectrum
UHF / 900 MHz ISM
Audio Frequency Response
50 Hz-20 kHz
Working Range
330 feet
Battery Type
SB900A Rechargeable Li-Ion or LR6 AA batteries
Battery Runtime
Up to 9 hours
Features
- Dual Transmission Modes: Standard and High Density
- Encryption-Enabled Secure Transmission
- Frequency and Power Lockout
- Rugged Metal Construction
- External Contacts for Docked Charging
- Premium BETA®87A Capsule
- Consistent Supercardioid Polar Pattern
- Electronic Low-Frequency Roll-off
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Shure AD2/B87A for its exceptional audio quality and unwavering reliability. Users highlight the microphone's robust build and crystal clear sound reproduction, making it a trusted choice for professional live performances and broadcasts. Its consistent performance, even in challenging RF environments, instills confidence. While a premium investment, the perceived durability and superior sound output justify the cost for those seeking top tier wireless microphone capabilities. The ease of integration into existing professional systems is also frequently noted.
Know before you buy
The BETA 87A is a condenser capsule known for its smooth, studio-quality frequency response and high sound pressure level handling. Its supercardioid polar pattern is excellent at isolating vocals while rejecting unwanted off-axis noise, making it ideal for professional live stages.
Standard mode is designed for optimal range and signal stability in typical environments. High Density mode narrows the transmission bandwidth, allowing you to operate significantly more channels simultaneously in crowded RF environments without interference.
Yes, the AD2/B87A is compatible with both the Shure SB900A rechargeable lithium-ion battery and standard LR6 AA batteries. This provides flexibility if you are in a situation where charging isn't immediately available.
Yes, the transmitter features AES-256 encryption, which ensures that your audio signal remains secure and private from unauthorized interception during transmission.
Yes, the unit includes frequency and power lockout features. Once configured, you can lock the settings to ensure that a performer cannot accidentally change the frequency or power off the microphone mid-show.
The external contacts allow the transmitter to be placed into a compatible Shure docking station for charging. This eliminates the need to remove the battery or plug in cables, which is particularly useful for quick turnarounds in professional production environments.
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