Shure ULX2/SM86 manual Cardioid Condenser Microphone, Applications and Placement

Model SM86 User Guide

SM86

CARDIOID CONDENSER MICROPHONE

The Shure SM86 is a unidirectional (cardioid) condenser vocal microphone for professional use in live performance. An extremely rugged microphone, the SM86 withstands the rigors of touring while delivering studio-quality sound. The tailored frequency response of the SM86 reproduces vocals with clarity. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise, and a two-stage pop filter reduces wind and breath “pop” noise. The SM86 is an excellent selection for use with both stage monitors and personal in-ear monitors.

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

PROXIMITY EFFECT

Unidirectional microphones, like the SM86, progressively boost bass frequencies up to 15 dB as the microphone gets closer to the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. To prevent excessive or “boomy” low frequency sound during close-up use, the SM86 bass response gradually rolls off. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of proximity effect.

APPLICATIONS AND PLACEMENT

The SM86 is ideal for close-up vocals and can be held in the hand or mounted on a stand. Some of the most common applications and placement techniques are listed in the following table. Keep in mind that microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste—there is no one “correct” microphone position.

SUGGESTED MICROPHONE	TONE QUALITY
PLACEMENT
Lips less than 15 cm (6 in.) away or	Robust sound, emphasized
touching the windscreen, on axis to	bass, maximum isolation from
microphone.	other sources.
15 to 60 cm (6 in. to 2 ft.) away from	Reduced bass.
mouth, just above nose height.
More than 60 cm (2 ft.) away.	Thinner, more distant sound;
	noticeable levels of ambient
	noise.

STAGE MONITOR & P.A. LOUDSPEAKER PLACEMENT

Place the stage monitor directly behind the microphone (see Figure 1). Locate the P.A. loudspeakers so that they point away from the rear of the microphone. With the speakers located in these positions, the possibility of feedback is greatly reduced. Always check the stage setup before a performance to ensure optimum placement of microphone and monitors.

90°

STAGE

MONITOR

P.A.	°	0°
LOUDSPEAKERS	180

MICROPHONESOUND SOURCE

90°

CARDIOID MICROPHONE POSITIONING

FIGURE 1

GENERAL RULES FOR MICROPHONE USE

1.Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source and away from unwanted sources.

2.Locate the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source.

3.Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.

4.Use only one microphone per sound source.

5.Locate microphones at least three times as far from other microphones as from the sound source.

6.Use as few microphones as practical.

7.Place microphones far from sound-reflecting surfaces.

8.Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.

9.Avoid excessive handling to minimize mechanical noise.

2004, Shure Incorporated	Printed in U.S.A.
27A3143 (Rev. 1)