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The Roger Nichols Gear Collection

Shure SM86

Item ID: SM86

Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone

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From Our Research Team:

Studio-Quality Live Vocal Microphone!

Following in the footsteps of the SM58 and SM57, the SM86 has everything the SM line of Shure microphones has stood for all these years - durability, quality performance, and reliability. The difference is that this new SM handheld microphone brings with it a remarkable sound quality that only a condenser mic can deliver!

Shure SM86 Condenser Microphone at a Glance:
  • Extremely rugged condenser mic for studio quality onstage
  • Tailored frequency response optimized for vocals
  • Internal shock mount and pop filter reduce handling noise

Extremely rugged condenser mic for studio quality onstage
If you've spent any time in a recording studio you've probably experienced the benefits of a good condenser mic: great transients, balanced frequency response and wide dynamic range. The Shure SM86 packs those qualities into a rugged steel case to give you condenser quality in a handheld stage mic. The phantom-powered SM86 operates on voltages ranging from 11 to 52 volts DC so it can be used even with inexpensive mixers. It also works well in studio environments, which makes it a comfortable choice for vocalists who both perform live and record.

Tailored frequency response optimized for vocals
The SM86 makes a great vocal mic. Its frequency response of 50Hz - 18kHz includes a presence peak in the 2-5kHz range that ensures clarity and projection for all vocal ranges. Plus, the SM86 works well with vocalists who like to work both close to the mic and up to 18 inches away, delivering a robust sound and bass response that smoothly moves from enhanced and powerful up close to smooth and even farther away.

Internal shock mount and pop filter reduce handling noise
The unidirectional (cardioid) pickup pattern of the SM86 means it admirably rejects off-axis noise, reducing bleed from other onstage sound sources. Shure designed it with a built-in three-point shock mount that minimizes handling noise, and a two-stage pop filter to reduce wind and breath "pop" noise. The SM86 is an excellent selection for use with both stage monitors and personal in-ear monitors.


Shure SM86 Condenser Microphone Features:
  • Condenser cartridge for studio quality sound
  • Tailored frequency response for a clear reproduction of vocals
  • Rugged construction withstands the rigors of touring sound
  • Cardioid polar pattern minimizes unwanted background noise
  • Excellent choice for stage monitors and personal in-ear monitors
  • Built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise
  • Two-stage "pop" filter reduces wind and breath noise
  • Includes vinyl storage pouch and clip

Take the Shure SM86 onstage with you!

SM86 Image Gallery

Specification Detail
Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Response 50Hz-18kHz
Max SPL 147 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio 71 dB
Self Noise 23 dB
Output Impedance 150 ohms
Length 7.2"
Diameter 1.92"
Weight .61 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number SM86

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Reviews

based on 3 reviews

Extremely versatile!

by Taylor Holtzheimer from Bellingham, WA
September 8, 2011
Music Background: Hobbyist, Home Recordist, Producer, Gigging Musician
I have used this mic for 4 years every week as my vocal mic and it's good for ANY kind of vocal if you know how to use it. Just recently, in my home studio, I also tried it on my acoustic guitar and i... read more [+]t was incredible. No EQ required, it just sounded good. Not too shimmery and not too low-mid either, just a straight flat but warm sound. So I bought a second one that now lives as a goto mic in my studio. close [-]

As Good or Better Than Lrg Studio Mics

by Customer from WI
November 15, 2008
Music Background: Professional audio engineer and composer since 1978
First off, Sweetwater's service is exemplary!

As for the Shure SM86... to be honest I've been recording professionally off and on since the 1970's in both live and studio situations. I... read more [+] have used a lot of $600+ mics including the more expensive Neumann U87. Oh and I'm not being paid to write this review.

These days the market is flooded with cheap mics in the ($50 to $300 price range or there abouts) all competing fiercely for your wallet, but what do they all have in common?... apparently crystal clear sound but most are a little thin sounding in the final mix, some are harsh in the top-end, some have too much sibilance issues, and the proximity effect isn't that great and certainly not as great compared to the Shure SM86 considering it's meant to be for live use (but surprisingly good for recording too). If you insist on having a decent large studio condenser mic then don't get less than for example: AKG C 414 B-XL II, Neumann U 87 or Shure-KSM44.

You can use the Shure SM86 to record vocals in the same room with the TV on and the dog snoring loudly. OK! A slight exaggeration hehehehe but you get the picture.

Having said all that! The point is, a lot of home studio music producers insist that you should get a large studio condenser mic to rec vocals but the point they miss most is that almost all and possibly all of those cheap ($50 to $300 or there abouts) larger studio condenser mics falls short of excellence no matter how good the mic positioning is, no matter how good the mic pre is, no matter how good the Waves L2 is, no matter how good the room treatment is, or whatever is used to help sweeten up the sound!

The Shure SM86 has a warm, rich, up-close in-your-face sound that is specifically designed to make vocals sound great and has incredible proximity that is very smooth, not harsh at all and perfect for both male and female vocals and makes the vocals stand out in the mix, whatever mix that may be, be it a flood of screaming guitars, bass, drums and orchestra.

Honestly the Shure SM86 is absolutely outstanding.

But hey, it's your money to be spent, it's your choice. close [-]

shure sm86

by kenny from virginia
August 14, 2007
Music Background: active musician/singer
This mic really brings vocals to the front. clear and crisp with perfect balance. I've been using sm58's and 57's, and those are good mics, but the sm 86 takes it to a new level. I highly recomend!

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See Also: Condensers , Shure , Shure Condenser Microphones , Shure Condenser Microphones

Shure SM86

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My Sales Engineer is not only extremely knowledgeable and kind, but he has been completely professional and responsive. I always rely upon Dave to give me sound advice and support.
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