Shure Beta 52A

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$189.00 to $219.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (42)

2 Critic Reviews

8 Reviews

Find out who is using Shure Beta 52A

6 community setups

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18 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (65)

$219.00

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5.0 (15)

$219.00

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4.8 (549)

$219.00 New

$179.00 Used (Like New)

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5.0 (41)

$189.00 76 available New

$115.00 24 available Used

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4.0 (57)

$219.00

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4.7 (3)

$219.00

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4.8 (830)

$195.00 $189.00 $6.00 · All time low

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£181.00

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5.0 (1)

$219.00

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Average Price: $201

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

In the Dynamic Microphones category, Shure Beta 52A is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Shure Beta 52A". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Shure Beta 52A, a dynamic microphone designed for power and precision. Optimized for maximum bass drum punch, this microphone accommodates low-frequency instruments with ease, maintaining studio-quality sound even at extreme volumes. Its super-cardioid characteristics offer superior isolation of the sound source and high feedback, significantly reducing background noise.

The Shure Beta 52A is not only high-performance but also practical. Its adjustable stand adapter with an integrated XLR connector simplifies positioning, especially when used inside the bass drum. The adapter ensures the microphone remains secure, standing up to hard shocks and strong vibrations. Its basket, crafted from hardened steel, offers robust protection against the rigors of stage performance.

Key Features:

Super-cardioid, maximizing sound source isolation and feedback
Optimized frequency response for bass drum kick and low-frequency instrument pickup
High output power with minimal background noise
Adjustable stand adapter with integrated XLR connector for easy installation
Hardened steel basket for enhanced durability
Air-sprung vibration absorber for sound and vibration protection
Neodymium magnet for high output levels
Low sensitivity against varying connection impedances
Transmission range: 20 - 10,000 Hz
Maximum sound pressure: 174 dB SPL (up to 1 kHz, calculated)
Output Impedance: 45 Ohm
Noise Sensitivity: -64 dBV / Pa (0.63 mV)

Owner's manual

Shure Beta 52A User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type	Dynamic
Polar Pattern	Supercardioid
Frequency Response	20Hz-10kHz
Max SPL	174db SPL
Output Impedance	150 ohms
Connector	XLR
Weight	1.33 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Shure Beta 52A microphone?: The Shure Beta 52A is primarily used for kick drums and other bass instruments, offering a tailored frequency response that enhances attack and punch in low-frequency sounds.
Does the Shure Beta 52A require phantom power to operate?: No, the Shure Beta 52A is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power.
What is the polar pattern of the Shure Beta 52A, and how does it affect sound pickup?: The Shure Beta 52A has a supercardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent isolation from unwanted ambient sound, making it ideal for live and studio settings.
Is the Shure Beta 52A suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Shure Beta 52A is well-suited for live performances due to its high maximum SPL of 174dB and robust build, ensuring clear sound reproduction even at high volumes.
How does the Shure Beta 52A connect to audio equipment?: The Shure Beta 52A connects to audio equipment using an XLR connector, providing a secure and reliable connection for both live and studio applications.

Videos

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Drummer’s Den Production

Kick Mic Shootout // Shure Beta 52a vs Shure Beta 91a vs sE V-Kick vs Audix D6 // No Talking

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Shure Beta 52A Overview - American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Reviews

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PROS

Superior sound quality with enhanced low and high ends
Ideal for recording bass amps, kick drums, and electric bass cabinets
Durable and robust construction, built to last
Provides full, thick sounds without coloration for easier mixing
Versatile, suitable for various music styles and recording needs
Nearly ready for mix signal with minimal need for EQ or compression
Highly recommended by professionals as an industry standard
Offers great clean bass tones with a natural touch
Effectively isolates the desired sound, minimizing outside noise
Affordable, offering great value for a wide range of applications

CONS

Heavier than expected, putting more load on mic stands
May require heavy EQ to shape the sound to your liking
Some users found it initially challenging to achieve the desired punch with kick drums
Might need additional mics for a fuller sound in high-end frequencies depending on music style

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure Beta 52A.

Comparisons

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The Shure Beta 52A is frequently compared to the Sennheiser E902, with some users preferring the latter for its clearer, more natural sound on kick drums.
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The AKG D112 and RE20 are often favored over the Beta 52A for studio kick drum recording due to their more versatile tonal qualities.
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Owners often find the Beta 52A delivers a consistent sound, described as more "punchy," in comparison to the AKG D112's need for EQ adjustments.
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Use cases and applications

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Many users recommend pairing the Beta 52A with a Shure Beta 91A inside the kick for a balanced combination of low-end and attack.
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The Beta 52A is favored for its reliability across different kick drums, sounding good on most kits, unlike the D112, which has more variable results.
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User experience

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It's noted that the Beta 52A requires specific placement to sound lively, such as positioning it 2/3 into the kick hole aimed at the drum shell.
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Some users find the Beta 52A to be "boxy" in the 200-500 Hz range and prefer mics that naturally sound more mix-ready.
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Users suspect cold joints or oxidized contacts in the signal path may cause irregularities, with phantom power possibly clearing oxidation temporarily.
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Owners note that while the Beta 52A consistently delivers its signature sound, some mics like the D6 or RE20 require more EQ but offer different tonal flexibility.
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Features and functionality

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The Beta 52A is praised for handling high SPL well, making it reliable for heavy bass and kick drum applications without distortion.
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Applying phantom power sometimes temporarily resolves signal issues, though it's not required for Beta 52A operation, suggesting an underlying electrical contact problem.
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The Beta 52A is praised for its low-end emphasis and tight sound, making it less neutral than the D112 but suitable for modern rock styles without excessive EQ.
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Setup and maintenance

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It's noted that issues with low signal on the Beta 52A can stem from a malfunctioning Behringer S16 stage box, causing intermittent input problems.
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A right-angle XLR cable is recommended for the AKG D112 due to its difficult positioning requirements, a consideration for users comparing it with the Beta 52A.
Source

Critic Reviews

Shure Beta 52A review: Kick mic to end all kick mics

higherhz.com

The Shure Beta 52A is a powerhouse for capturing low frequencies with its high SPL, making it ideal for kick drums and bass cabs. It's durable and affordable, solidifying its place as a staple in both studio and live settings. However, its specialization means it's not versatile—don’t expect it to shine with vocals or acoustic guitars. If deep, resonant lows are your aim, the Beta 52A won't disappoint.

positive

Full Review

Shure Beta 52A Review (Kick Mic) (2025)

drumhelper.com

Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 42 Ratings

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nathan_whited

343

over 7 years ago

Best on kick and bass heavy sources.

Unprocessed has a dull sub focus response but also picks up enough information for drastic EQ shaping. It's kind of magic on a kick. If you're gonna have one kick mic this should be it.

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Alternative rock Psychedelic rock Garage rock

mattmillie

about 10 years ago

Great kick drum microphone.

I love this microphone for the bass drum. I have used it in the mic port and also putting it inside the bass drum and pointing it towards the beater head. I position it off center and pointed a little about the bass drum beater.