SM81 : Excellent SDC for Percussion and Acoustic Guitar

The SM81 is an industry standard for high hats. Extremely robust, it really can take the abuse which comes with life on the road, and even the occasional off target attack from an enthusiastic drummer's stick.

I have three of these, as in addition to micing hats, they also make excellent overheads.

On acoustic, they produce a slightly more mellow tone than the KM184, or some other SDCs in the arsenal. I personally find them a useful option for jazz guitar. If you are comparing them to SDCs of a more modern design which follow the trend for a brighter tone, you may find them a little dull on anything stringed, However, they do take EQ well.

The mic comes with a pop shield (essential if using for any vocal recording as this mic is extremely sensitive to plosives), and mic clip. All is contained in a robust, gig-proof plastic case.

All in all, an excellent SDC, which because of its wide industry acceptance and rider-friendly qualities, I enthusiastically recommend particularly as a mainstay for live work.