Shure BETA53, BETA54 - Headworn Vocal Microphones Manual

General Description

Shure models BETA53 and BETA54 are subminiature, electret condenser headworn microphones. They provide uncompromised sound quality and reliability with minimal visibility in applications such as broadcast, theater, and touring. Despite their small size, each microphone's condenser element delivers full, clear, and natural reproduction of speech and vocals. The microphone features a durable, low profile wire frame headband which is fully adjustable for stability and comfort. A plastic carrying case protects the microphone and its accessories.

BETA53 Features

• Omnidirectional polar pattern for minimal handling noise and flexible microphone placement
• Extended, flat frequency response provides accurate speech and vocal reproduction
• Two interchangeable protective caps for response shaping
• Foam windscreens minimize breath noise and "popping"
• Available with an in-line preamp or with a TA4F connector for wireless applications
• Choice of black or tan finish to suit your performance environment

BETA54 Features

• Supercardioid polar pattern provides maximum gain-before-feedback and ambient rejection
• Extended frequency response tailored for vocal performances
• Able to handle extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL)
• Snap-fit foam windscreens stay in place during intensive movement
• Available with an in-line preamp or with a TA4F connector for wireless applications
• Choice of black or tan finish to suit your performance environment

Available Models

Beta53 Models

• Omnidirectional
• For broadcast and stage
• Black finish
• Detachable in-line preamp for wired applications
• Requires phantom power

Wireless Models

These models are for use with Shure wireless microphone systems. TA4F connector attaches to wireless bodypacks (in-line preamp not included).

• WBH53B (black)
• WBH53T (tan)

Accessories

All models include:

Beta54 Models

• Supercardioid
• For stage and vocal performance
• Black finish
• Detachable in-line preamp for wired applications
• Requires phantom power

Wireless Models

These models are for use with Shure wireless microphone systems. TA4F connector attaches to wireless bodypacks (in-line preamp not included).

• WBH54B (black)
• WBH54T (tan)

Accessories

All models include:

Adjusting the Headband and Microphone

1. Adjust headband width
2. Adjust boom height
3. Adjust boom length
4. Do not attempt to bend the microphone boom!
5. "Roll" the boom for subtle adjustments of microphone position

Windscreens

Care and Maintenance

• Foam windscreens may be cleaned with soap and water.
• For the best sound quality, replace damaged or clogged protective caps and windscreens.

Windscreen
Grip the internal frame of the windscreen firmly when connecting or removing. Do not pull on the foam itself.

• To connect, push the windscreen until it snaps into place over the cartridge.
• To remove, pull the windscreen directly off of the cartridge.

Protective Caps

Standard protective cap:

• Gold mesh
• No attenuation

Filtered protective cap:

• Silver mesh
• Attenuates high frequencies

Always use the BETA54 with the standard protective cap only. Using the microphone with no cap, or with the filtered cap, will degrade sound quality and alter the microphone's polar pattern.

Positioning the Microphone

BETA53/54

• Position the omnidirectional BETA53 or directional BETA54 microphone near the corner of the mouth
  
• If necessary, roll the boom to avoid contact with skin and facial hair

Reversing the Boom

The microphone boom may be reinstalled to position it on the left or right side of the head.

• Carefully detach the boom holder ①, logo pad ②, and microphone cable ③ from the headband.
• Reattach the boom holder to the opposite side of the wire frame ④.
• Reattach the logo pad ⑤ and microphone cable ⑥.

Specifications

BETA 53 / WBH53 / RPM627

Type
Electret Condenser

Frequency Response
20 to 20,000 Hz

Polar Pattern
Omnidirectional

Output Impedance (RPM627)
160 Ω

Sensitivity
at 1kHz, open circuit voltage

Maximum SPL
1 kHz at 1% THD ^[2]

Signal-To-Noise Ratio^[3]
55.0 dB

Dynamic Range
at 1kHz

Self Noise
equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical
42.5 dB

Power Requirements

Polarity

Weight

Cable
1.5Meters (5Feet)

^[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL
^[2] THD of microphone preamplifier when applied input signal level is equivalent to cartridge output at specified SPL
^[3] S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise, A-weighted

BETA 54 / WBH54 / RPM627

Type
Electret Condenser

Frequency Response
50 to 20,000 Hz

Polar Pattern
Supercardioid

Output Impedance (RPM627)
160 Ω

Sensitivity
at 1kHz, open circuit voltage

Maximum SPL
1 kHz at 1% THD ^[2]

Signal-To-Noise Ratio^[3]
55.0 dB

Dynamic Range
at 1kHz

Self Noise
equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical
43.1 dB

Power Requirements

Polarity

Weight

^[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL
^[2] THD of microphone preamplifier when applied input signal level is equivalent to cartridge output at specified SPL
^[3] S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self-noise, A-weighted

BETA53 Typical Polar Pattern and Frequency Response

BETA54 Typical Polar Pattern and Frequency Response

Accessories

Replacement Parts

BETA54

BETA53

Authorized European representative:
Shure Europe GmbH
Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa
Department: EMEA Approval
Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12
75031 Eppingen, Germany
Phone: +49-7262-92 49 0
Fax: +49-7262-92 49 11 4
Email: info@shure.de