About the Shure PGA181

Product highlights:
General Features:
- designed for acoustic instruments, keyboards, ensembles, and studio vocals
- side-address condenser microphone
- cardioid pattern for noise rejection and feedback suppression
- black metallic finish and grille
Specifications:
- frequency response: 50-20,000 Hz
- sensitivity: -38 dBV/Pa
- output impedance: 120 ohms
- male XLR connectors
- 2-1/8" diameter x 5-15/16" length
- weight: 12.8 oz
Included Accessories:
- carrying case
- 1 mic clip
- stand adapter
Other Info:
- warranty: 2 years
- MFR # PGA181-LC
- Item # 183PGA181
What's in the box:
- PGA181 Condenser microphone
- WA371 microphone clip
- 5/8"-to-3/8" Thread adapter
- Zippered pouch
- User Guide
More details on the Shure PGA181

Features & specs
General | ||
---|---|---|
Application | For live & studio use | |
Type | Condenser | |
Polar Pattern | Cardioid | |
Phantom Power | Y | |
On/Off Switch | No | |
Connector | XLR | |
Specs | ||
Frequency response | 50-20k | |
Sensitivity | -38dBV/Pa | |
Max SPL | 138dB | |
Diameter | 2.087 | |
Length | 5.898 | |
Weight | 12.8 oz. | |
Parts Warranty | 2 Years | |
Labor Warranty | 2 Years |
Product Research
Features
Overview: The Shure PGA181 is a side-address cardioid condenser microphone. It is ideal for vocals, as well as acoustic and amplified instruments. It comes with a microphone clip (WA371), and a zippered storage pouch.
Microphone Positioning: The microphone should be placed in an upright position, with the sound being directed toward the side-facing diaphragm. The front of the microphone is marked by 4 screws around the grille, the cardioid logo, and the PGA181 model number. Sounds coming from the opposite side of the diaphragm will be reduced by -25dB because of the cardioid pickup pattern. A pop filter should be used when the microphone is used for close-up vocals.
Cardioid Pickup Pattern: The PGA181 has a cardioid polar pattern for maximum gain before feedback, and excellent rejection of off-axis sound.
Phantom Power: The PGA181 is an electret condenser microphone which requires a balanced, microphone-level input that provides phantom power (+48V DC recommended). Phantom power can be supplied by the mixer or audio interface that the microphone is connected to. Usually the mixer has a switch to activate the phantom power.
Applications: The microphone is recommended for the following applications:
- Voice: In voice applications, the singer/speaker should be 1-3" from the microphone. A pop filter should be used.
- Acoustic Guitar: The mic should be positioned near the sound hole (6-12" away) for a full sound. Placement near the 12th fret will give a balanced, natural sound.
- Drums: Placement of the microphone determines which percussion sound you desire. Placing the mic in front of the drum kit (3-6' away) will result in more kick drum, while placement overhead will capture more cymbals.
- Amplifiers: Aiming the microphone toward the center of the speaker (1-6" away) will provide a clear, aggressive sound. Placement toward the edge will deliver a mellower sound.
- Strings/Horns: For a single instrument, the microphone should be placed close to the source (around 1' away). For a horn or string section, the microphone should be placed an equal distance away from all players (3-6' away).
- Full Band: The microphone should be facing the entire group, centered between the instruments, 3-10' away.
Thread Adapter: A 5/8"-to-3/8" thread adapter is included. This adapter allows the mic clip to be attached to a mic stand with a 3/8" threaded connector.
Specifications:
PGA181 | |
---|---|
Frequency Response | 50 Hz-20 kHz |
Type | Electret Condenser |
Output Impedance | 120Ω |
Connector | Male XLR |
Sensitivity (at 1kHz) | Open Circuit Voltage -38 dBV/Pa (12.7mV) |
Maximum SPL | 138dB SPL |
Dimensions | Shaft Diameter: 1.571" Head Diameter: 2.087" Length: 5.898" |
Weight | 12.8 ounces |
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