What capsule does this transmitter use?

It uses the Shure Beta 58A dynamic capsule, which is known for its supercardioid polar pattern and tailored vocal response.

Is this a wired or wireless microphone?

It is a wireless handheld transmitter designed to be used without cables, though it requires a compatible Shure wireless receiver to function.

Which wireless systems is this transmitter compatible with?

This transmitter is compatible with Shure S8 analogue wireless systems. It must be paired with an S8 frequency band receiver.

What is the primary application for the BLX2/B58-S8?

It is primarily designed for professional live vocal performances where the singer needs freedom of movement on stage.

How does the Beta 58A capsule differ from the SM58?

The Beta 58A has a supercardioid pattern for better isolation and a brighter high-frequency response compared to the SM58's cardioid pattern.

What is the typical price for this unit?

The typical price range for the Shure BLX2/B58-S8 is approximately £258.

Does this microphone require phantom power?

No, it is a dynamic microphone capsule powered by the batteries within the BLX2 transmitter body.

Can I use this transmitter with any Shure receiver?

No, it must be used with a receiver that matches the S8 frequency band and uses Shure's analogue BLX technology.

What kind of polar pattern does it have?

It features a supercardioid polar pattern, which helps reject off-axis noise and reduces the risk of feedback.

Is the microphone capsule replaceable?

While the capsule is integrated into the BLX2 transmitter, it is based on the specific Beta 58A design; however, user-swapping capsules is generally not a feature of the BLX line.

What is the 'S8' designation in the product name?

S8 refers to the specific frequency band used for the analogue wireless transmission of the audio signal.

How does it compare to the Sennheiser e945?

Both are premium supercardioid dynamic microphones for live vocals, though the Shure offers the specific 'Beta' sound signature and is part of the Shure wireless ecosystem.

Gear article

Shure BLX2/B58-S8 Wireless Handheld Microphone Transmitter

The Shure BLX2/B58-S8 is a wireless handheld transmitter featuring the premium Beta 58A dynamic microphone capsule. Designed for professional live vocal performances, it integrates with Shure S8 analogue wireless systems to provide high-fidelity audio without the constraints of cables.

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Overview

The Shure BLX2/B58-S8 serves as a dedicated wireless solution for vocalists who require the specific tonal characteristics of the Beta 58A capsule in a mobile format. It consists of the BLX2 handheld transmitter housing and the integrated Beta 58A microphone head. This specific model is configured for the S8 frequency band, making it compatible with corresponding Shure analogue wireless receivers.

The Beta 58A Capsule

At the core of this transmitter is the Beta 58A, a high-output dynamic microphone capsule. It is engineered specifically for lead vocals and backup vocals in live environments. Key characteristics include:

Supercardioid Polar Pattern: Provides high gain before feedback and superior isolation from other sound sources on stage.
Tailored Frequency Response: Designed to offer a brightened midrange and bass roll-off to control proximity effect.
Neodymium Magnet: Ensures a high signal-to-noise ratio for clean vocal reproduction.

Transmission and Operation

The BLX2 transmitter provides the wireless backbone for the unit. As an analogue system, it is designed for reliability and ease of setup within the Shure BLX wireless ecosystem. The unit features a lightweight, rugged construction suitable for the rigours of touring and frequent stage use. It is powered by standard batteries and includes simple interface controls for frequency matching with the receiver.

Sound Character and Suitability

The sound of the BLX2/B58-S8 is described as rich, warm, and accurate. Because the Beta 58A capsule has a more pronounced high-end presence compared to the standard SM58, it is particularly well-suited for singers who need their voice to cut through a dense instrument mix. It is an ideal choice for professional vocalists who move frequently on stage and need to avoid the hazards of traditional microphone cables.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to the standard Shure SM58, the BLX2/B58-S8 offers a more sophisticated supercardioid pickup pattern and an extended high-frequency response. While the SM58 is a versatile workhorse, the Beta 58A capsule in this transmitter provides a more 'premium' vocal sheen. In contrast to high-end studio-style dynamic mics like the Sennheiser MD 441-U or the Electro-Voice RE20, the BLX2/B58-S8 is purpose-built for handheld live performance rather than stationary broadcast or studio recording.

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Frequently asked questions

What capsule does this transmitter use?: It uses the Shure Beta 58A dynamic capsule, which is known for its supercardioid polar pattern and tailored vocal response.
Is this a wired or wireless microphone?: It is a wireless handheld transmitter designed to be used without cables, though it requires a compatible Shure wireless receiver to function.
Which wireless systems is this transmitter compatible with?: This transmitter is compatible with Shure S8 analogue wireless systems. It must be paired with an S8 frequency band receiver.
What is the primary application for the BLX2/B58-S8?: It is primarily designed for professional live vocal performances where the singer needs freedom of movement on stage.
How does the Beta 58A capsule differ from the SM58?: The Beta 58A has a supercardioid pattern for better isolation and a brighter high-frequency response compared to the SM58's cardioid pattern.
What is the typical price for this unit?: The typical price range for the Shure BLX2/B58-S8 is approximately £258.
Does this microphone require phantom power?: No, it is a dynamic microphone capsule powered by the batteries within the BLX2 transmitter body.
Can I use this transmitter with any Shure receiver?: No, it must be used with a receiver that matches the S8 frequency band and uses Shure's analogue BLX technology.
What kind of polar pattern does it have?: It features a supercardioid polar pattern, which helps reject off-axis noise and reduces the risk of feedback.
Is the microphone capsule replaceable?: While the capsule is integrated into the BLX2 transmitter, it is based on the specific Beta 58A design; however, user-swapping capsules is generally not a feature of the BLX line.
What is the 'S8' designation in the product name?: S8 refers to the specific frequency band used for the analogue wireless transmission of the audio signal.
How does it compare to the Sennheiser e945?: Both are premium supercardioid dynamic microphones for live vocals, though the Shure offers the specific 'Beta' sound signature and is part of the Shure wireless ecosystem.