Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic

5.0 (7)

$209.00

4.3 (196)

$209.00 New

$200.00 Used (Like New)

5.0 (6)

$181.43 23 available New

$95.00 6 available Used

5.0 (32)

$209.00

5.0 (4)

$209.00

4.9 (14)

$131.00

£143.50

Average Price: $182

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Step into the spotlight with confidence using the Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic, a true performer's choice for capturing the essence of your voice with studio-grade clarity and precision. Crafted for durability and superior sound quality, this microphone is your reliable partner on stage, designed to bring out the best in your vocal performances. Whether you're belting out powerful notes or whispering delicate harmonies, the SM86 ensures every nuance of your voice is heard with unmatched fidelity.

Unlike ordinary microphones that might crack under the pressure of live performances, the Shure SM86 stands strong. Its cardioid polar pattern zeroes in on your voice, minimizing background noise, so you're always the main event. Handling noise? Not an issue, thanks to its built-in three-point shock absorber. And with a two-layer windscreen, even the breathiest vocals come out smooth and pop-free. It's not just a microphone; it's your on-stage companion, ready for any challenge.

Key Features:

Condenser microphone optimized for vocals, ensuring your voice is captured with studio-quality sound.
Durable design that withstands the rigors of live performances.
Cardioid polar pattern focuses on the main sound source, reducing unwanted background noise.
Built-in three-point shock absorber significantly diminishes handling noise.
Two-layer windscreen effectively minimizes wind and pop noises.
Matched frequency response for a precise reproduction of vocals.
Ideal for both stage performances and in-ear monitoring.
Frequency range: 50 Hz - 18 kHz, capturing a wide spectrum of voices.
Maximum SPL of 147 dB, allowing for clear sound reproduction even at high volumes.
Requires 11 to 52 V power supply, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment.

Owner's manual

Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type	Condenser
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Frequency Response	50Hz-18kHz
Max SPL	147dB SPL
Output Impedance	150 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio	71dB
Self Noise	23dB
Power Source	48V phantom power
Connector	XLR
Dimensions	7.2" x 1.92"
Weight	0.61 lbs.
Included Accessories	Stand Clamp, Microphone Pouch

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic?: The Shure SM86 is designed for professional live vocal performances, offering studio-quality sound with its cardioid condenser design, which captures clear vocals while minimizing background noise.
Does the Shure SM86 require phantom power?: Yes, the Shure SM86 requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is typically provided by most mixing consoles and audio interfaces.
How does the Shure SM86 differ from the SM58?: The Shure SM86 has a wider frequency response of 50Hz-18kHz, making it better suited for capturing detailed vocals, whereas the SM58 is known for handling louder signals with its 50Hz-15kHz range.
Is the Shure SM86 suitable for touring?: Yes, the Shure SM86 is built to withstand the rigors of touring, offering durability alongside its high-quality sound for live performances.
What type of connector does the Shure SM86 use?: The Shure SM86 uses an XLR connector, which is standard for professional audio equipment, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity.

Videos

Add video

GLB Productions

Shure SM86 vs Shure SM58

GLB Productions

Shure Beta 87a Condenser Mic Review / Test

Podcastage

Shure Handheld Vocal Mics Compared: SM58 vs. Beta 58A vs. Beta 87A vs. SM86

Sweetwater

Best Live Condenser Mics Under £200! - Shure SM86, Audio Technica AT2010 & Sennheiser E865

Andertons Music Tech Dept.

Shure Live Mic Comparison, Female Vocal | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Shure SM86 Handheld Condenser Microphone Review

Audio Hotline

[Review]Shure SM86 is a Condenser Microphone In The Legendary SM Line Of Microphones

Ryen Lee

Shure SM86 Demo

TheFreedomofLiving

Shure SM86 vs. SM58 vs U87i: Why the SM86 might be the perfect choice for you!

Barry Watson

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Exceptional clarity for singing, cuts through mixes without EQ
Enhanced warmth and airiness compared to SM58, improving vocal and acoustic performances
Allows vocalists freedom of movement, working well up to 18 inches away
Minimal handling noise, superior to many competitors
Resistant to feedback, suitable for live and solo performances
Light and comfortable hand feel, doesn't feel cheap
Higher frequency range than SM58, offering detailed sound
Builds fullness in voice, ideal for acoustic guitar accompaniment
Good build quality, comparable to industry standards

CONS

Limited online demos, making pre-purchase evaluation challenging
Some self-noise, not ideal for voiceover work without adjustments
May be too bright for long voiceover sessions, requiring EQ modification

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic.

Comparisons

0 0

The SM86 is often preferred over the Shure Beta 58, offering better clarity and fidelity for a similar price point.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The SM86 is praised for its versatility, being effectively used not only for vocals but also for softer kick drum applications, specifically on the resonant head.
Source

User experience

0 0

Users consistently commend the SM86 for its crisp sound in large venues, although it's noted to be prone to feedback issues in smaller settings.
Source

Features and functionality

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The SM86 is highlighted for its single-diaphragm cardioid pattern, which provides excellent off-axis sound rejection, making it ideal for live vocal use.
Source

Value and pricing

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Users note the SM86 as a highly underrated option, offering outstanding vocal clarity compared to other mics in its price range.
Source

Critic Reviews

Shure SM86 Microphone Review | SoundGale

soundgale.com

The Shure SM86 microphone impresses with its robust build and versatility, ideal for vocals and various audio tasks. Its durable design and sound quality deliver good value for its price, though it requires phantom power, which might be limiting. While it lacks a "wow" factor, it remains a solid choice among older models. Despite being outshined by competitors like the Sennheiser E865, it holds its ground as a reliable option.

positive

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

Artist usage

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John Mayer

Guitarist

John Mayer Trio

Verified via Mixonline

Used for vocals on the John Mayer/Counting Crows Summer Tour, as stated by engineer Chad Franscoviak in this September 1, 2003 Mix Online interview.

Meanwhile, Mayer's own deep, breathy voice translated well through a Shure SM86. "John's vocals have a lot of low-mid and high end, but not much midrange, and getting that requires a fair amount of soft compression," Franscoviak says.

Lemmy Kilmister

Singer, Guitarist

Motörhead

Verified via Photo

In this picture you can see clearly a Shure SM86, which he began using in his late career.

Mary Spender

Singer, Guitarist

Verified via YouTube

Introduced at 9:54 in this video.

Mark Lanegan

Singer

Queens of the Stone Age

Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "The Gravedigger's Song" by the Mark Lanegan Band, Mark Lanegan is seen using the Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic.

Adam Gardner

Singer, Guitarist

Guster

Verified via YouTube

Visible in the music video for Guster's "Careful" at 3:10.

Ryan Miller

Singer, Guitarist

Guster

Verified via YouTube

Visible in the music video for Guster's "Careful" starting at 0:14.

Joe Pisapia

Singer, Guitarist

Guster

Verified via YouTube

Visible in the music video for Guster's "Careful" at 1:40. Also used to record harmonica in this video.

Tarriona ‘Tank’ Ball

Singer

Tank and The Bangas

Verified via YouTube

In the attached video, a live performance with her band Tank and the Bangas, she is singing into an SM86 throughout (visible around 1:40, among other places in the video).

Album Usage

The Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic has been featured on the following albums:

Oak Tree

Tank and The Bangas (2022)

The Gravedigger's Song

Mark Lanegan (2011)

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Rock

Folk, World, & Country

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Mic, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Waves Renaissance Vox Plugin Compressor Plugins

Neumann M269c Condenser Microphones

TC Electronic M5000 Multi-Effects Processor Effects Processors

Shure PSM 700 Headphones & In-Ear Monitors

Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. H Limiting Amplifier Effects Processors

AKG C 24 Condenser Microphones

Fairchild 670 Compressor-Limiter Effects Processors

Telefunken ELA M 251 Condenser Microphones

Neumann U47 Condenser Microphones

Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors

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