Shure Beta 98A User Manual

Model Beta 98A Wired Microphones

Specification Sheet

TL1074 (Rev. 1)

Printed in U.S.A.

©2010 Shure Incorporated

The Shure Beta 98A is a compact, high-output, 

condenser microphone for professional sound 

reinforcement and studio recording.  An ex-

tremely uniform cardioid polar pattern provides 

excellent gain before feedback and off-axis 

rejection of unwanted noise. Its high sound 

pressure level (SPL) capability makes it useful 

for a variety of acoustic or amplified instruments 

including drums, piano, reed, wind, and strings.

•  Beta 98A/C includes microphone, 7.6 m 

(25 ft) light-weight interconnect cable, 

preamplifier, and RK282 shockmount swivel 

adapter.

•  Beta 98AD/C includes microphone, 4.6 m 

(15 ft) heavy-duty interconnect cable, 

preamplifier, and A98D microphone drum 

mount.

•  Exceptional low-frequency reproduction
•  Extremely high SPL handling
•  High output level
•  No crossover distortion

•  Premier live performance microphone with 

Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability

•  Uniform cardioid pick-up pattern for maximum 

gain before feedback and superior rejection of 

off-axis sound

•  Tailored frequency response specifically 

shaped for drums, percussion, reeds, and 

horns

•  Compact design reduces stage clutter
•  Wide dynamic range for use in high SPL 

environments

•  Optional A98D mount is unobtrusive, 

versatile, and easy to adjust

•  Enamel-coated metal construction and 

stainless steel inner grille resist wear and 

abuse

The supplied cable connects the BETA 98A to 

the preamplifier. If necessary, up to 23 m (75 ft) 

of cable can be used between the microphone 

and preamplifier without signal loss.

Use the following procedures to mount the Beta 

98A on the swivel adapter:
1. Connect the microphone to the adapter.

2. Thread the cable through the C-clamp and 

slide the connector into the C-clamp until 

snug.

3. To reduce wear on the cable, snap it into the 

stress reliever clip leaving 5 to 7 cm (2 to 3 

inches) of slack on the connector side.

The Shure A98D mounts the Beta 98A on a 

drum or cymbal stand.  Reference the furnished 

A98D guide to correctly mount the microphone.

•  Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source; angle unwanted sounds toward its null 

point.

•  Use the fewest amount of microphones as practical to increase the Potential Acoustic Gain and 

prevent feedback.

•  Follow the 3 to 1 Rule by spacing each microphone by at least three times the distance to its 

source to reduce Phase Cancellation.

•  Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces to reduce Comb Filtering.
•  When using directional microphones, work closely to the microphone for extra bass response to 

take advantage of Proximity Effect.

•  Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.
•  Do not cover any part of the microphone grille, as this will adversely affect microphone 

performance.

•  Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.