SHURE BETA57A (01) PDF Document

The SHURE BETA57A is a precision-engineered, dynamic microphone designed for professional live sound reinforcement and studio recording. It features a tight, supercardioid pattern that delivers high gain before feedback, maximum sound isolation, and minimum off-axis tone coloration.

The tailored frequency response of the versatile SHURE BETA57A accentuates the fine details of amplified and acoustic instruments, especially in high sound pressure level (SPL) environments. It includes a proven shock mount system, hardened steel-mesh grille, and a superior build quality to withstand the rigors of daily sound reinforcement.

The SHURE BETA57A features include:

• Premier live performance microphone with Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability.

• Uniform supercardioid pick-up pattern for maximum gain before feedback and superior rejection of off-axis sound.

• Tailored frequency response specifically shaped for guitars, drums and vocals.

• Neodymium magnet for greater sensitivity and higher output.

• Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration.

• Dent-resistant steel mesh grille and enamel coated die-cast metal construction resist wear and abuse.

• Do not cover any part of the microphone grille with your hand, as this will adversely affect microphone performance.

• Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source (such as the talker, singer, or instrument) and away from unwanted sources.

• Place the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source.

• Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.

• Use only one microphone to pick up a single sound source.

• For better gain before feedback, use fewer microphones.

• Keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each microphone to its source (“three to one rule”).

• Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces.

• Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.

• Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.

The following table lists common applications and placement techniques for the SHURE BETA57A. Microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste, and there is no one “correct” microphone position.

The SHURE BETA57A is a supercardioid microphone, which has the greatest sound rejection at points 120° toward the rear of the microphone. To avoid unwanted sound, place the microphone so that unwanted sound sources, such as monitors and loudspeakers, are at these 120° angles, not directly behind it. To minimize feedback and ensure optimum rejection of unwanted sound, always test the microphone placement before a performance.

Unidirectional (cardioid) microphones like the SHURE BETA57A progressively boost bass frequencies by 6 to 10 dB below 100 Hz when the microphone is at a distance of about 6 mm (1/4 in.) from the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. To prevent explosive low frequency sound during close-up use, the bass response gradually rolls off. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of the proximity effect.

Type: Dynamic (moving coil)

Frequency Response: 50 to 16,000 Hz

Polar Pattern: Supercardioid

Output Impedance: 290 Ω

Sensitivity (at 1kHz, open circuit voltage): -51 dBV/Pa (2.8 mV) [1 Pa=94 dB SPL]

Weight (Net): 0.275 kg (0.6 lbs)

Connector: Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced

Housing: Silver blue enamel-painted die cast metal with hardened, matte-finished steel mesh grille

Dimensions: 160 mm (6 11/32 in.) length, 43 mm (1 11/16 in.) diameter

The wiring for the three-pin XLR connector is as follows:

• Pin 1: Ground (Green wire)

• Pin 2: Positive Polarity (Red wire)

• Pin 3: Negative Polarity (Yellow wire)

The Blue wire is also connected to Pin 1 (Ground).