The Beta 87A first appeared on our recommended list for Live Vocal Mics from March 2016 until August 2017 when it was removed because it had been out-ranked by other mics.
Then in November 2018 it had high enough ratings to go back on the list where it remains today.
We also recommended it in our guide to Condenser Microphones from October 2018 until March 2020.
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Overview
The Shure Beta 87A is a condenser mic that’s built for the stage, with its comfortable handheld profile, quiet operation and noise reduction feature.
Right off the bat, this mic comes with a super cardioid polar pattern that better rejects stage / background noise. In conjunction with its built-in low frequency roll-off feature and pop filter, the Shure Beta 87A also does away with problems like proximity and plosives.
While it’s a common assumption to expect condenser mics not to be as reliable as dynamic mics, the Beta 87A is reliable enough to be used by many popular singers and sound engineers. In fact this is often one of the first condensers many bands add to their mic kit when they want to get more sparkle on the high end than the SM58 produces.
A word of warning; although many people get this as a step up from the SM58, you may have to make some technique adjustments because if you cup the mic, like rappers and heavy singers sometimes do, instead of getting a pronounced proximity effect you’re more likely to cause feedback.
Some say you can’t buy peace of mind, but the Shure Beta 87A comes quite close to it. Get it if you’re curious about the condenser mic sound but don’t want to stray too far from the Shure house sound.
Pros
Quiet operation – low handling noise
Fairly solid for a condenser
A good condenser to transition to if you’re a SM58 user
Cons
More prone to feedback than the SM58 (don’t cup the capsule)
Specifications
Type: Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
Frequency Response: 50Hz to 20kHz
Impedance: 150 Ohms
Maximum SPL: 140.5 dB
Applications: Live and recorded vocals and even live broadcasting
