Shure BETA 52A Supercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone
General
The Shure BETA 52A is a high-output dynamic microphone with a tailored frequency response specifically designed for kick drums and other bass instruments. It provides superb attack and "punch," and delivers studio-quality sound even at extremely high sound pressure levels.
The BETA 52A features a modified supercardioid pattern throughout its frequency range to ensure high gain before feedback and excellent rejection of unwanted sound. A built-in dynamic locking stand adapter with an integral XLR connector simplifies installation, particularly if the microphone is to be placed inside a kick drum. The stand adapter keeps the microphone position fixed and resists slipping, even when subjected to sharp blows and strong vibrations. A hardened steel mesh grille protects the BETA 52A from the abuse and wear associated with touring.
Features
- Frequency response shaped specifically for kick drums and bass instruments
- Built-in dynamic locking stand adapter with integral XLR connector simplifies setup, especially inside a kick drum
- Studio quality performance, even at extremely high sound pressure levels
- Supercardioid pattern for high gain before feedback and superior rejection of unwanted noise
- Hardened steel mesh grille that resists wear and abuse
- Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
- Neodymium magnet for high signal-to-noise ratio output
- Low sensitivity to varying load impedance
- Legendary Shure quality and reliability
Applications and Placement
The most common BETA 52A applications and placement techniques are listed in the following table. Microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste; there is no single "correct" microphone position.
| Application | Suggested Microphone Placement | Tone Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Kick Drum | 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3 in.) away from beater head, slightly off-center from beater. | Sharp attack; maximum bass sound, highest sound pressure level. |
| Kick Drum | 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in.) from beater head, on-axis with beater. | Medium attack; balanced sound. |
| Kick Drum | 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in.) from beater head, 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in.) from edge of head. | Medium attack; thin, reduced bass sound. |
| Kick Drum | 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3 in.) away from outside head, on-axis with beater (double head kickdrum only). | Softer attack; balanced, resonant sound. |
| Kick Drum | NOTE: To "tighten" the beat, place a pillow or blanket on bottom of drum against beater head. | |
| Electric Bass Amplifier | 2.5 cm (1 in.) from speaker, on-axis with center of speaker cone. | Sharp attack; emphasized bass. |
| Electric Bass Amplifier | 2.5 cm (1 in.) from speaker, at edge of speaker cone. | Sharp attack; higher frequency sound. |
| Electric Bass Amplifier | 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in.) from speaker, on-axis with center of speaker cone. | Sharp attack; full, balanced sound. |
| Electric Bass Amplifier | 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 ft.) from speaker, on-axis with center of speaker cone. | Soft attack; mellow, higher frequency sound. |
Mounting the BETA 52A on a Microphone Stand
The built-in stand adapter features a dynamic locking system that permits adjustments to the microphone's position, but resists slipping when struck or bumped. To mount the BETA 52A on a stand and adjust its position, proceed as follows:
- Screw the integral stand adapter onto the end of a microphone stand. Adjust the stand height and position as necessary. Ensure the adjustment knob on the adapter is loose.
- Pivot the BETA 52A until it is in the desired position relative to the drum head or loudspeaker.
- Lock the BETA 52A in place by rotating the adjustment knob on the stand adapter clockwise until it is tight. Do NOT overtighten the knob with tools.
- If necessary, make minor adjustments to the microphone position without loosening the adjustment knob.
- Connect an audio cable to the integral XLR connector.
Specifications
Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
Frequency Response: 20 to 10,000 Hz. The typical response curve shows on-axis response at a distance of 2 feet from a uniform sound source; actual response may vary depending on microphone position.
[Description of Frequency Response Graph: A line graph showing the relative response in decibels (dB) across a frequency range from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The curve indicates a tailored response, with a significant boost in the low frequencies suitable for bass instruments, and a gradual roll-off in the higher frequencies.]
Polar Pattern: Supercardioid, rotationally symmetrical about microphone axis.
[Description of Polar Patterns: Two polar plots illustrating the supercardioid pickup pattern. These diagrams show the microphone's sensitivity at different angles around its axis. The pattern is characterized by maximum sensitivity directly in front and significant rejection of sound from the sides (approximately 120° and 240° off-axis), with some rear pickup.]
Output Level (at 1,000 Hz): Open Circuit Voltage: –64 dBV/Pa* (0.6 mV) (*1 Pa = 94 dB SPL)
Impedance: Rated impedance is 150 Ω (45 Ω actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low Z.
Phasing: Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3.
Maximum SPL: 174 dB at 1000 Hz (calculated).
Connector: Three-pin professional audio connector (male XLR type).
Case: Silver blue enamel-painted die cast metal with hardened, matte-finished steel grille.
Adjustable, Locking Stand Adapter: Integral, dynamic locking, adjustable through 180°, with standard 5/8"-27 thread.
[Description of Stand Adapter Diagram: An illustration of the integrated stand adapter for the BETA 52A microphone. It shows the adapter's dimensions and its connection to a microphone stand, highlighting the adjustment knob used to secure the microphone's position.]
Net Weight: 605 grams (21.6 oz)
Certification: Eligible to bear CE Marking. Conforms to European EMC Directive 89/336/EEC. Meets applicable tests and performance criteria in European Standard EN55103 (1996) parts 1 and 2, for residential (E1) and light industrial (E2) environments.
Accessories
Furnished Accessories:
- Storage Bag (Part No. 26A25)
- 5/8" to 3/8" (Euro) Thread Adapter (Part No. 95A2050)
Optional Accessories:
- 7.6 m (25 ft) Cable (Part No. C25E, C25F)
Replacement Parts:
- Cartridge (Part No. R175)
- Screen and Grille Assembly (Part No. RK321)
- Plug (connector) Assembly (Part No. 90F1984)
NOTE: Use care when removing the cartridge holder from the base to prevent breakage of the lead wires.
Service and Support
For additional service or parts information, please contact Shure's Service department at 1-800-516-2525. Outside the United States, please contact your authorized Shure Service Center.
Shure Incorporated
Web Address: http://www.shure.com
5800 W. Touhy Avenue, Niles, IL 60714-4608, U.S.A.
Phone: 800-257-4873 Fax: 847-866-2279
In Europe, Phone: 49-7131-72140 Fax: 49-7131-721414
In Asia, Phone: 852-2893-4290 Fax: 852-2893-4055
Elsewhere, Phone: 847-866-2200 Fax: 847-866-2585
