Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$249.00 $199.00 $50.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
$249.00 $199.00 $50.00 · All time low
Reverb
$199.00 New
$195.19 Used
Musician's Friend
$249.00 $199.00 $50.00 · All time low
B&H
4.0 (1)
$249.00 $199.00 $50.00 · All time low
Thomann
5.0 (6)
$292.00 $289.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $216

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Telefunken M81-SH". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Telefunken M81-SH: Dynamic Mic with a Twist

Introducing the Telefunken M81-SH, a dynamic microphone that marries the robustness of a dynamic mic with the nuanced performance of a condenser. Like its predecessor, the M80, the M81-SH offers minimal proximity effect, superior feedback rejection, and a clear mid-range. However, this updated model pulls back on the top end for a flatter, more balanced frequency response. It's a mic that offers studio-quality sound without the studio price tag.

One of its standout features, the specially-designed capsule, provides a wide, balanced response, and reduces proximity effect. This means your sound will never get too boomy or indistinct, yet you'll still benefit from the feedback-fighting characteristics of a directional microphone.

The M81-SH also boasts an American made, custom wound transformer. This gem guarantees a consistent sound across different mixing boards by automatically matching impedance. So whether you're performing live or recording in the studio, you can count on the M81-SH to deliver a consistent, high-quality sound.

Its compact form factor makes it an excellent choice for snare drums and other hard-to-reach sources. But don't let its size fool you. This mic packs a punch, capturing your sound with incredible detail. From vocals to guitar amps, the M81-SH is a versatile performer that can handle a wide range of applications.

Key Features:

  • Dynamic supercardioid microphone ideal for vocals, instruments, or percussion
  • Flat frequency response perfect for taming brighter-sounding sources
  • Compact form factor for easy placement on snare drums and other hard-to-reach sources
  • Wide-range 50Hz-18kHz frequency response suitable for both instruments and vocals
  • Low-mass capsule and diaphragm for quick, clear, detailed sound reproduction
  • Specially-designed capsule reduces proximity effect for a more distinct sound
  • American made, custom wound transformer for consistent sound across different mixing boards
  • High-quality components made in America
  • Comes with microphone clip and carrying bag

Product specs

Microphone Type Dynamic
Polar Pattern Supercardioid
Frequency Range 50Hz-18kHz
Max SPL 135 dB SPL
Output Impedance 325 ohms
Connector XLR
Weight 0.75 lbs.
Included Accessories Stand Mount, Microphone Pouch

FAQs

What is the primary application of the Telefunken M81-SH microphone?

The Telefunken M81-SH is designed for both vocal and instrument applications, offering a smooth frequency response that helps tame bright vocals and add body to instruments like guitars and horns.

How does the supercardioid pattern of the M81-SH benefit recording?

The supercardioid pattern of the M81-SH provides excellent isolation from background noise and reduces feedback, making it ideal for live performances and studio recordings where clear, focused sound capture is essential.

Is the Telefunken M81-SH suitable for high sound pressure levels?

Yes, the Telefunken M81-SH can handle high sound pressure levels up to 135 dB SPL, making it suitable for loud sound sources such as drums and amplified instruments.

What connectivity options does the Telefunken M81-SH offer?

The Telefunken M81-SH features a standard XLR connector, ensuring compatibility with most professional audio equipment and recording interfaces.

How does the frequency response of the M81-SH affect its sound characteristics?

With a frequency response of 50Hz-18kHz, the M81-SH delivers a clear and detailed sound, enhancing vocal clarity and adding richness to instruments without excessive brightness.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

How to Get a Great Tom Sound with Telefunken Microphones

Video thumbnail for How to Get a Great Tom Sound with Telefunken Microphones by Sweetwater

How to Get a Great Tom Sound with Telefunken Microphones

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound clarity, beats competitors like Shure SM57

  • Excellent for recording drums, guitars, and vocals

  • Minimizes bleed, captures tone well

  • Flat EQ captures sources more accurately

  • Works great with Cloudlifter Zi for enhanced performance

  • Durable, withstands overload and distortion attempts

  • Lack of proximity effect for a more whole drum sound

  • Superb transient response, faithfully reproduces source

  • Versatile, performs well across various instruments and styles

  • Neutral and warm sound, easily adjustable with EQ

CONS

  • Included cable produces background noise, low-quality shielding

  • May not fully satisfy expectations as a dynamic mic compared to condenser mics

  • Some find it overly sharp until adjusted for distance

  • Price point may not justify improvement over alternatives like Beta 57A

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Telefunken M81-SH.

Comparisons

  • The Telefunken M81-SH is described as having a 200Hz roll-off, making it less bass-heavy compared to the sE V-Beat, which has more extended low-end frequencies.

    Source
  • The sE V-Beat is highlighted for its impressive off-axis rejection and deeper lows, contrasting with the M81-SH's flatter high-mids and highs.

    Source
  • Compared to the Audix D2 and D4, the Telefunken M81-SH provides a different sound character, noted for its natural sound with less low-mid presence, suitable for a variety of drum setups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Telefunken M81-SH is noted for its neutral and natural sound, lacking the significant low-end found in other dynamic mics like the V7X.

    Source

User experience

  • A user reports that the M81-SH has a punchy attack, similar to the M80 but with a flatter high-end response.

    Source
  • Owners describe the M81-SH as effective in environments with multiple drums, reducing the interference of adjacent cymbal noise, making it ideal for intricate drum setups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The M81-SH could be ideal for users seeking a more consistent tom sound across a drum kit without the need for constant mic adjustments.

    Source
  • The Telefunken M81-SH is praised for needing minimal EQ when used on well-tuned drums, offering good rejection of unwanted drum and cymbal noise.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users mention that the M81-SH integrates well with clip-style mounts, allowing for secure placement on toms without needing additional booms.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Anderson Paak uses Telefunken M81-SH

Anderson Paak

Singer, Drummer

Silk Sonic

...
Verified via YouTube

Anderson .Paak performs "Anywhere" on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.

See how Blake Mills uses Telefunken M81-SH

Blake Mills

Singer, Guitarist

Simon Dawes

...
Verified via TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik

'For my guitar, I like the M81-SH in front of the amp, with an M82 on the back of the amp.”'

See how Josh Manuel uses Telefunken M81-SH

Josh Manuel

Drummer

Issues

...
Verified via YouTube

Josh uses an m81 sh on his toms. He states that issues uses all telefunken mics live

Album Usage

The Telefunken M81-SH 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 Telefunken M81-SH, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
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1
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1

Community setups

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lucaszoick

lucaszoick

Gear IQ 89

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