Pricing and availability
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Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $201
High-end/Boutique
$75
$201+
Price Tier
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
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 ManualProduct 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
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What is the primary use of the Shure Beta 52A microphone?
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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.
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Does the Shure Beta 52A require phantom power to operate?
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No, the Shure Beta 52A is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power.
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What is the polar pattern of the Shure Beta 52A, and how does it affect sound pickup?
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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.
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Is the Shure Beta 52A suitable for live performances?
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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.
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How does the Shure Beta 52A connect to audio equipment?
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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
Drummer’s Den Production
Kick Mic Shootout // Shure Beta 52a vs Shure Beta 91a vs sE V-Kick vs Audix D6 // No Talking
Reviews
PROS
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Superior sound quality with enhanced low and high ends
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Ideal for recording bass amps, kick drums, and electric bass cabinets
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Durable and robust construction, built to last
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Provides full, thick sounds without coloration for easier mixing
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Versatile, suitable for various music styles and recording needs
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Nearly ready for mix signal with minimal need for EQ or compression
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Highly recommended by professionals as an industry standard
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Offers great clean bass tones with a natural touch
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Effectively isolates the desired sound, minimizing outside noise
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Affordable, offering great value for a wide range of applications
CONS
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Heavier than expected, putting more load on mic stands
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May require heavy EQ to shape the sound to your liking
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Some users found it initially challenging to achieve the desired punch with kick drums
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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.
Source
Use cases and applications
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.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 8 Reviews and 42 Ratings
343
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.
76
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.
208
Great Microphone
I use this microphone for all drum and bass recordings that I do. Gives great clean bass tones and a natrual touch to the sound.
Great mic
I use this a lot, essential for tracking a kit and killer for picking up bass out of an amp.
800
Artist usage
Add artist
Elvis and his band mates from Rebel Romance have recently ordered one of these trusty bass mics and are planning on getting some good bass tones through the inputs for our upcoming EP!
In this YouTube video of Betts peforming live in Paradiddle Mansions, at 2:46 a beta 52a can be seen mic'ing up the reso head of the kick in conjunction with what looks like a diy / unbranded subkick mic.
Album Usage
The Shure Beta 52A has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Shure Beta 52A, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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Add recommendation1 alternative for Shure Beta 52A, curated by the Equipboard community.