M81-SH Low Profile

The low profile M81-SH is ideal for tight drum miking, brass or vocal applications where a smaller footprint is necessary.

M81-SH Low Profile

Now lighter, shorter, and sleeker than ever, the redesigned M81-SH delivers improved performance and modernized styling, featuring a 40% reduction in overall weight, a 10% shorter length, vibration-dampening technology, and finishes matched to our handheld microphones. Updated for 2026, it sets a new standard for low-profile dynamic microphones. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for tight-fit applications such as drums and guitar amps on stage, as well as vocal positions for drummers and keyboard players where a full-size microphone may be obstructive. The M81-SH delivers the same character and high-SPL handling as its handheld counterparts, with a smooth frequency response, exceptional midrange articulation for brass, woodwinds, and percussion, and a Supercardioid pickup pattern that minimizes proximity effect and provides superior off-axis rejection.

Features

Same clear, condenser-like performance as the handheld M81
Smaller size and built-in mount allow for easier positioning
Custom-wound impedance-matching audio transformer
High SPL handling and excellent off-axis rejection
Right-angle XLR cable included
Designed and hand assembled in the USA
Recommended Applications: Toms, Guitar amps on stage, Brass instruments

Technical Specifications

Type: Dynamic

Polar Pattern: Supercardioid

Frequency Range: 50 Hz - 18 kHz, ±3 dB

Capsule: 25mm Dynamic Moving Coil

Transformer: TELEFUNKEN Elektroakustik T80

Sensitivity: 1.54 mV/Pa, ±1 dB

Output Impedance: 325 Ω

Maximum SPL (for 1% THD): 135 dB

Dimensions: 114 mm L x 48 mm Dia

Weight: 210 g

Included Accessories: Right Angle XLR Cable, Plastic Mount, Zipper Bag

Frequency Response

DCFC drummer Jason McGerr commented, “Telefunken is making incredible microphones these days. I’ve been using a pair of M60 FET’s as my overheads, M80-SH on snare, M81-SH on toms, with an M82 on the kick. The live kit has never sounded better to my ears, both behind the drums and out at Front of House. I’ve also been tracking in the studio with the same setup, but I use an AR-70 as my overhead instead of the M60’s. The larger diaphragms and stereo pattern flexibility give a really big, beautiful image of the drums.”

Jason McGerr – Death Cab For Cutie