What instrument is the PGA98H best suited for?

It is specifically designed for brass and woodwind instruments. The clip-on design and gooseneck allow it to attach perfectly to bells and instrument bodies.

What connector does this version of the PGA98H use?

This specific model features a TA4F (mini 4-pin) connector. It is intended for use with Shure wireless bodypack transmitters.

Can I plug this microphone directly into a mixer?

No, this version requires a Shure wireless bodypack transmitter. If you need to plug directly into a mixer via XLR, you would need the PGA98H-XLR version which includes a preamp.

Does the PGA98H require phantom power?

Yes, as a condenser microphone, it requires power. In this configuration, the power is provided by the wireless bodypack transmitter it is connected to.

What is the benefit of the cardioid polar pattern?

The cardioid pattern focuses on the sound coming from the instrument and rejects background noise. This helps prevent feedback when performing near monitors or loud stages.

Is the gooseneck adjustable?

Yes, it features a flexible gooseneck. This allows the musician to position the microphone capsule precisely at the optimal distance from the instrument's sound source.

How durable is the microphone for touring?

The PGA98H is built to be 'deceivingly tough.' Shure has designed it to handle the knocks, scrapes, and rigours of regular touring and live use.

What is the typical price range for the PGA98H?

The typical price for this microphone is approximately GBP 137. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

Does the mic come with a wireless receiver?

No, this is the microphone only. You must already own or purchase a compatible Shure wireless system, such as a BLX or SLXD series, to use it.

How does it handle high-volume performances?

It features a wide dynamic range specifically to handle expressive and loud performances. It can capture high sound pressure levels without significant distortion.

How does the PGA98H compare to the sE Electronics V7 MC2?

The PGA98H is a clip-on instrument condenser mic, whereas the V7 MC2 is a dynamic vocal capsule for Sennheiser wireless systems. They serve entirely different purposes in a live setup.

Can it be used for recording as well as live sound?

While primarily designed for live use due to its clip-on nature, its detailed sound character makes it a viable option for studio recording when a close-mic setup is required.

Gear article

Shure PGA98H Clip-on Instrument Microphone (TA4F)

The Shure PGA98H is a professional-grade cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for woodwind and brass instruments. It features a flexible gooseneck and a TA4F connector for integration with Shure wireless bodypack systems, offering musicians freedom of movement on stage.

Shure PGA98H Clip-on Instrument Mic TA4F Wireless Systems Connector

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Overview

The Shure PGA98H is a compact, high-performance instrument microphone that forms part of the PG ALTA series. It is engineered to deliver clear sound reproduction for wind instruments while maintaining a low profile. This specific version is equipped with a TA4F (mini 4-pin) connector, making it compatible with Shure wireless bodypack transmitters rather than a standard XLR input.

By clipping directly onto the bell of a horn or the body of a woodwind instrument, the PGA98H eliminates the need for stationary microphone stands. This allows performers to move freely during a set without sacrificing audio consistency or quality.

Design and Key Features

The microphone utilizes a cardioid polar pattern, which is essential for live performance environments. By focusing on the sound source directly in front of the capsule, it effectively rejects off-axis noise and reduces the risk of feedback.

Key physical features include: * Flexible Gooseneck: Allows for precise positioning of the capsule to capture the optimal tone of the instrument. * Integrated Horn Clamp: A robust clip designed to attach securely to various instrument shapes without damaging the finish. * TA4F Connector: Specifically wired for use with Shure wireless systems like the BLX, SLX-D, or GLX-D series.

sE Electronics V7 MC2 for Sennheiser Wireless Systems Gold

Sound Character

Shure describes the sonic profile of the PGA98H as 'detailed and lively.' It is designed with a wide dynamic range to handle the high sound pressure levels (SPL) often generated by brass instruments. The condenser capsule provides a more nuanced response compared to dynamic microphones, capturing the expressive transients and subtle breath details of a performance. The result is a natural sound that accurately reflects the timbre of the instrument.

Applications and Suitability

This microphone is primarily aimed at saxophonists, trumpeters, and other woodwind or brass players who perform in live venues. Because it handles high-volume output with ease, it is equally suitable for loud big bands and quieter jazz ensembles. The 'road-tough' construction ensures it can survive the rigours of touring, including the frequent knocks and scrapes associated with mounting and unmounting from instruments nightly.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Shure ecosystem, the PGA98H serves as a more accessible alternative to the premium Beta 98H/C. While both share the clip-on gooseneck design, the PGA series is positioned for value while maintaining professional durability.

Compared to external wireless solutions like the Shure BLX24R/B58 or Sennheiser EW-DX systems, the PGA98H is a component (the transducer) rather than a full system. Unlike handheld alternatives such as the sE Electronics V7 MC2, the PGA98H is specialized for instrument mounting, ensuring the microphone maintains a constant distance from the sound source regardless of the player's movement.

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Frequently asked questions

What instrument is the PGA98H best suited for?: It is specifically designed for brass and woodwind instruments. The clip-on design and gooseneck allow it to attach perfectly to bells and instrument bodies.
What connector does this version of the PGA98H use?: This specific model features a TA4F (mini 4-pin) connector. It is intended for use with Shure wireless bodypack transmitters.
Can I plug this microphone directly into a mixer?: No, this version requires a Shure wireless bodypack transmitter. If you need to plug directly into a mixer via XLR, you would need the PGA98H-XLR version which includes a preamp.
Does the PGA98H require phantom power?: Yes, as a condenser microphone, it requires power. In this configuration, the power is provided by the wireless bodypack transmitter it is connected to.
What is the benefit of the cardioid polar pattern?: The cardioid pattern focuses on the sound coming from the instrument and rejects background noise. This helps prevent feedback when performing near monitors or loud stages.
Is the gooseneck adjustable?: Yes, it features a flexible gooseneck. This allows the musician to position the microphone capsule precisely at the optimal distance from the instrument's sound source.
How durable is the microphone for touring?: The PGA98H is built to be 'deceivingly tough.' Shure has designed it to handle the knocks, scrapes, and rigours of regular touring and live use.
What is the typical price range for the PGA98H?: The typical price for this microphone is approximately GBP 137. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
Does the mic come with a wireless receiver?: No, this is the microphone only. You must already own or purchase a compatible Shure wireless system, such as a BLX or SLXD series, to use it.
How does it handle high-volume performances?: It features a wide dynamic range specifically to handle expressive and loud performances. It can capture high sound pressure levels without significant distortion.
How does the PGA98H compare to the sE Electronics V7 MC2?: The PGA98H is a clip-on instrument condenser mic, whereas the V7 MC2 is a dynamic vocal capsule for Sennheiser wireless systems. They serve entirely different purposes in a live setup.
Can it be used for recording as well as live sound?: While primarily designed for live use due to its clip-on nature, its detailed sound character makes it a viable option for studio recording when a close-mic setup is required.