Best Shure SM81 Alternatives

Based on reviews from amazon.com, goknight.com, guitarcenter.com, notebookcheck.net, pcmag.com, and more.

Things to consider when looking for the best Shure SM81 alternatives

When comparing reviews for products, these are the top things reviewers talk about:

  • Microphone: 49 mentions
  • Sound quality: 44 mentions
  • Recording quality: 17 mentions
  • Frequency response: 3 mentions
  • Cost: 3 mentions
  • Fit: 2 mentions
  • Price: 2 mentions
  • Wireless: 2 mentions
  • Noise cancellation: 2 mentions
  • Noise canceling: 1 mention
B

Based on 20 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

Great low-end frequency response
Neutral response for versatile use
Provides clarity and definition to sound
Easy to use and set up
Can be used for other instruments such as the cajon
Not recommended as the sole mic for a kick drum without a porthole
May require additional EQing compared to other bass drum mics
Relatively expensive compared to other options on the market

Verdict

Overall, the Shure Beta 91A is highly recommended for use as a kick drum mic, with many reviewers praising its ability to capture deep, resonant bass and provide clarity and definition to the sound. It is also noted for its versatility, being used for other instruments such as the cajon. Some reviewers suggest pairing it with another mic for optimal sound, while others find it to be the best option on its own. The mic's neutral response and low-end frequency cut-off are also mentioned as standout features. However, some reviewers caution against using it as the sole mic for a kick drum without a porthole, and suggest using it in combination with other mics or adding a porthole for optimal sound. Overall, the Shure Beta 91A is considered a great investment for those looking for a high-quality kick drum mic.

B

Based on 59 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

  • Great for vocals
  • Good sound quality
  • Easy to use
  • Not for noisy environments
  • Requires a good sound card
B

Based on 75 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

  • Great for streaming and gaming
  • Excellent sound quality
  • Mixed bag with software issues
B

Based on 24 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

Great flexibility in recording fields and sensitivities
Solid build quality
Versatile and reliable for a variety of recording needs
Not the best fit for every voice
Expensive
Some reviewers prefer other options like the Austrian Audio OC18 or OC818

Verdict

The AKG C414 XLS is a versatile and high-quality microphone that is highly recommended by many reviewers. It is praised for its flexibility in recording fields and sensitivities, as well as its solid build quality. Some reviewers prefer the Austrian Audio OC18 or OC818, but the C414 is still considered a great option. However, some reviewers have noted that it may not be the best fit for every voice and that it can be expensive. Overall, the AKG C414 XLS is a reliable and versatile microphone that is well-suited for a variety of recording needs.

C

Based on 18 reviews

The Looria Grade (A - F) accounts for multiple factors, including sentiment, helpfulness, and more. Learn about our sources and ranking.

Great sound quality
Versatile for a variety of instruments
Natural and detailed sound
Captures the character of the instrument
Not feasible for all users due to its relatively high price
Some users have reported issues with mounting clips, particularly for violin and shoulder-less instruments
It may be necessary to demo and consider other options before making a final decision.

Verdict

The DPA 4099 is a versatile and high-quality microphone that is well-suited for a variety of instruments, including acoustic guitar, upright bass, cello, saxophone, and piano. It is praised for its natural and detailed sound, and its ability to capture the character of the instrument. However, some users have reported issues with the mounting clips, particularly for violin and shoulder-less instruments. The microphone is also relatively expensive, which may not be feasible for all users. Overall, the DPA 4099 is a popular choice among musicians and audio professionals, but it is important to demo and consider other options before making a final decision.