Shure Beta 98/S Supercardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone

The Shure Beta 98/S is a compact, high-output supercardioid condenser microphone for professional sound reinforcement and studio recording. Its extremely uniform supercardioid pickup pattern provides high gain-before-feedback and excellent rejection of unwanted noise. Its high maximum sound pressure level (SPL) makes it useful for a variety of instruments including drums, piano, reed, wind, and string. The Beta 98/S can also be used for amplified guitars.

Features:

• Tailored frequency response for studio quality performance
• Wide dynamic range for use in high SPL environments
• Uniform supercardioid pattern for high gain before feedback and superior rejection of off-axis sound
• Optional A98D drum mount is unobtrusive and versatile, allowing precise positioning of the microphone while holding it firmly in place
• Compact design reduces stage clutter
• Detachable cable for easy storage
• Interchangeable microphone cartridges with different polar patterns are available
• Legendary Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability

Type
Condenser (electret bias)
 
Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz
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(measured at 304.8 mm [1 ft] from a spherical sound source, free field conditions)
 
Polar Pattern
Supercardioid (as supplied), uniform with frequency, symmetrical about axis. Cartridge for cardioid polar pattern also available.
 
Output Level (at 1,000 Hz)
Open Circuit Voltage: -59 dBV/Pa* (1 mV) typical
*1 Pa = 94 dB SPL
 
Maximum SPL
(20 Hz to 20 kHz, less than 1% THD)
2.5 kilohm load: 160 dB
1 kilohm load: 156 dB
 
Preamplifier Output Clipping Level
(20 Hz to 20 kHz, less than 1% THD)
2.5 kilohm load: + 6 dBV (2.0 V)
1 kilohm load: + 2 dBV (1.26 V)
 
Dynamic Range
(at 20 Hz to 20 kHz, less than 1% THD, 2.5 kilohm load)
125 dB (max SPL minus A-weighted noise)
 
Output Noise
35 dB SPL, A-weighted
 
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
59 dB re 94 dB SPL
 
Output Impedance
Rated at 150 ohms (actual)
Recommended minimum load impedance: 1 kilohm
 
Hum Pickup
-7.5 dB equivalent SPL in 1 mOe field (60Hz)
 
Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
 
Phantom Power
48 Vdc +/- 4 Vdc(IEC-268-15/DIN 45 596), positive pins 2 and 3.
 
Cable
BETA 98/S: 7.6 m (25 ft) light-weight, two-conductor shielded, TA4F to TA3F mini connectors.
BETA 98D/S: 4.6 m (15 ft) heavy-duty, two-conductor shielded, TA4F to TA3F mini connectors.
 
Case
Microphone: Matte black enamel brass case and stainless steel inner grille
Preamplifier: Matte black enamel finished steel
 
Dimensions
Microphone: 11.7 mm X 35.6 mm (0.46 in. X 1.40 in.)
Preamplifier: 20 mm X 99 mm (0.79 in. X 3.89 in.)
 
Net Weight
Microphone: 12 g (0.4 oz) less cable
Preamplifier: 96 g (3.4 oz)