Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$155.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$155.00
Amazon
4.4 (147)
$155.00
Reverb
$551.90 3 available New
Musician's Friend
5.0 (64)
$155.00
B&H
5.0 (2)
$155.00
Gear4Music
£149.00

Average Price: $212

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Shure PGA81". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Designed to capture the subtle nuances of your acoustic instruments, the Shure PGA81 is a cardioid condenser microphone that blends professional quality with elegant design. Its sleek black metallic finish is not just for show—it minimizes visual distractions while ensuring durability in demanding environments. Whether you're recording the soft strum of an acoustic guitar or the vibrant tones of a violin, the PGA81’s flat-response microphone cartridge delivers clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it an essential tool for studio and live performances alike.

Engineered to excel in sensitive acoustic settings, the PGA81’s cardioid polar pattern focuses on the sound source, minimizing background noise and delivering precise audio capture. With its robust build, this mic is ready to withstand the rigors of frequent use without compromising on performance. The PGA81 comes equipped with a swivel adapter and a secure zipper pouch, ensuring ease of setup and safe transport. Illuminate your recordings with legendary Shure quality, trusted by musicians and sound engineers worldwide.

Key Features:

  • Cardioid condenser microphone ideal for acoustic instruments
  • Flat-response microphone cartridge for detailed sound reproduction
  • Cardioid polar pattern minimizes ambient noise
  • Durable black metallic finish and grille for a sleek, unobtrusive look
  • Includes stand adapter and zipper pouch for convenience
  • Requires phantom power for operation

Owner's manual

Shure PGA81 User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Response 40Hz-18kHz
Max SPL 129.5 dB
Output Impedance 600 ohms
Connector XLR
Weight 0.41 lbs.

FAQs

What is the Shure PGA81 primarily used for?

The Shure PGA81 is designed for capturing the sound of acoustic instruments, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings.

Does the Shure PGA81 require phantom power?

Yes, the Shure PGA81 is a condenser microphone and requires phantom power to operate.

Is the Shure PGA81 suitable for recording vocals?

While the Shure PGA81 can be used for vocals, it is primarily optimized for acoustic instruments due to its flat-response cartridge design.

What is the polar pattern of the Shure PGA81?

The Shure PGA81 features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source and reduce background noise.

How does the Shure PGA81 connect to audio equipment?

The Shure PGA81 uses an XLR connector, making it compatible with most professional audio equipment and mixing consoles.

Marco Fanton

Marco Fanton

Test Microfoni Shure SM81 - PGA81

Video thumbnail for Test Microfoni Shure SM81 - PGA81 by Marco Fanton

Test Microfoni Shure SM81 - PGA81

Marco Fanton

Marco Fanton

Video thumbnail for Test Goldwood Montagna Acoustic Guitar - Shure PGA81 - Fractal AXE FX3 by Marco Fanton

Test Goldwood Montagna Acoustic Guitar - Shure PGA81 - Fractal AXE FX3

Marco Fanton

Marco Fanton

Video thumbnail for Shure PGA81 Acoustic Guitar Demo by Nathan Medina

Shure PGA81 Acoustic Guitar Demo

Nathan Medina

Nathan Medina

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional clarity and realness in capturing acoustic instruments

  • Sensitive enough to require minimal proximity to the source

  • Minimal pickup of background noises

  • Versatile for various applications, including live events and sound healing sessions

  • Crisp, bright sound with tight lows

  • Natural sound reproduction, especially for acoustic guitar

  • Durable and well-built for longevity

CONS

  • Requires a preamp for optimal sound with certain playing styles (e.g., fingerstyle guitar)

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure PGA81.

Use cases and applications

  • The Shure PG-81 is primarily used for drum kit overheads but is versatile enough for a wide array of instruments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PG-81 can operate with either an AA battery or 48v phantom power, offering flexibility in power options.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the sturdy build quality of the PG-81, highlighting its durability for various recording environments.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Shure PG Alta — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

Shure's PG Alta series offers impressive value, mimicking higher-end models like the SM and Beta series but at a fraction of the price. The PGA81 cardioid condensers, designed for stereo overheads, deliver a well-balanced sound with desirable focus, making them suitable for live settings despite lower output. While the series lacks some of the handling noise reduction found in the SM58, the PGA58 still provides a close approximation. The PGA181 condenser shines on guitar amps with a smooth, less aggressive tone compared to an SM57. However, drum mounts show some limitations, and handling noise is a minor concern. Overall, the PG Alta series is a strong contender for budget-conscious musicians seeking comprehensive mic kits without sacrificing too much on sound quality.

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