Shure BETA 52A Dynamic Microphone For Kick Drum

The Shure BETA 52A is an industry-standard, high-output dynamic microphone specifically designed for capturing kick drums and other bass instruments (like bass guitar amplifiers or acoustic bass). It's a powerhouse mic known for its ability to handle extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs) and deliver a powerful, punchy low-end sound with excellent attack and clarity.

It's a staple in both live sound reinforcement and studio recording due to its tailored frequency response and robust construction.

Here's a detailed look at its key features and specifications:

Core Design & Capsule:

• Dynamic Microphone (Moving Coil): Like other dynamic mics, it's inherently rugged and capable of handling intense sound pressure without distortion.

• Supercardioid Polar Pattern: This is a crucial feature for its intended use. A supercardioid pattern is very directional, providing:

  • High Gain Before Feedback: Excellent at rejecting unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, which is vital on a loud stage to prevent feedback from monitors or other instruments.

  • Superior Isolation: Focuses the pickup tightly on the intended source (e.g., the kick drum), minimizing bleed from cymbals, snare, or other drums in a kit.

• Tailored Frequency Response: The Beta 52A has a frequency response (typically 20 Hz to 10 kHz) specifically shaped for bass instruments. It features:

  • Strong Low-End Punch: Delivers a deep, powerful bass response.

  • Presence Boost: Often has a presence boost around 4 kHz, which helps bring out the "attack" or "beater click" of a kick drum, making it cut through the mix.

• Neodymium Magnet: Utilizes a neodymium magnet for higher output and greater sensitivity, resulting in a strong signal-to-noise ratio.

Performance & Practicality:

• Extreme SPL Handling: One of its most impressive features is its ability to handle extremely high sound pressure levels, often rated up to 174 dB SPL. This is essential for close-miking kick drums, which generate immense sound pressure.

• Built-in Dynamic Locking Stand Adapter: This is a highly practical design element. The microphone features an integrated swivel mount with an XLR connector, which simplifies setup, especially when placing the mic inside a kick drum. The locking mechanism ensures the mic stays fixed in position, even with strong vibrations.

• Advanced Pneumatic Shock Mount System: Internally, the capsule is isolated by an advanced shock mount, which minimizes the transmission of mechanical noise and vibrations (e.g., from the drum stand, or even the drum's own vibrations).

• Rugged Construction: The Beta 52A is built like a tank. It features a hardened steel mesh grille that resists dents and abuse, and a silver-blue enamel-painted die-cast metal body, ensuring its reliability for demanding touring and studio use.

• Proximity Effect: Due to its supercardioid pattern, it exhibits a strong proximity effect, meaning bass frequencies are progressively boosted as the microphone is moved closer to the sound source. This can be used creatively to tailor the bass response of the instrument.

• No On/Off Switch: The standard Beta 52A does not include an on/off switch, which is typical for professional instrument microphones used in critical live and studio applications to prevent accidental muting.

Applications:

• Kick Drums (Bass Drums): This is its primary and most renowned application. It's used both inside the kick drum (for more attack and punch) and outside (for more resonance and low-end depth).

• Bass Guitar Cabinets: Excellent for capturing the low-end power and presence of bass amps.

• Acoustic Bass: Can provide a solid foundation for acoustic bass instruments.

• Large Floor Toms: While not its primary use, some engineers find it effective on very large floor toms that require significant low-end capture.

Included Accessories:

• Zippered storage bag

• 5/8" to 3/8" (Euro) thread adapter

The Shure BETA 52A is a tried-and-true workhorse for any sound engineer or musician needing to capture powerful, clear, and punchy low-frequency sounds. Its robust build, specialized frequency response, and high SPL handling make it an indispensable tool for drums and bass instruments in professional audio environments.