Models Beta 98H/C and
WB98H/C User Guide
Condenser Instrument
Microphone
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2001, Shure Incorporated
27B3102 (AE)
Printed in Mexico
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GENERAL
The Shure BETA 98H/C is a premium cardioid condenser instrumental microphone that clamps onto the bell of wind
instruments or onto the rim of percussion instruments. The integrated gooseneck and ratcheting swivel joint allows the
microphone to be easily positioned and secured in place, and an isolation shock-mount reduces the transmission of
instrument “key noise” and other mechanical noise. A gooseneck angle brace is included to provide better retention
of the microphone placement during more active performances (see Figure 9 for application).
The BET A 98H/C features transformerless preamplifier circuitry, which improves linearity across the full frequency range.
The preamplifier is attached to the microphone via a 10-foot high-flex cable. The MX1–BP battery-powered preamplifier
is available as an optional accessory and provides exceptional performance in situations where phantom power is not
available.
The pickup pattern of the BETA 98H/C provides high gain-before-feedback and excellent rejection of unwanted noise.
Its high maximum sound pressure level (SPL) enables it to handle the extreme demands of brass, woodwind and
percussion instruments.
The microphone is supplied with a snap-on windscreen, a storage bag, a gooseneck angle brace, and a cable
management device. The preamplifier can be powered by any 11–52 Vdc phantom power supply.
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FEATURES
Tailored frequency response for open, natural sound reproduction
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An isolation shock-mount reduces the transmission of instrument “key noise” and other mechanical noise
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Adjustable gooseneck and ratcheting swivel joint allow for optimal microphone positioning
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Gooseneck angle brace retains microphone placement in more active performances
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Compact, lightweight construction provides a low degree of visibility
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Designed for use in high SPL environments
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Uniform cardioid pattern provides for high gain-before-feedback and excellent rejection of ambient sound
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Interchangeable microphone cartridges with different pick-up patterns are available
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Legendary Shure quality, ruggedness and reliability
MODEL VARIATIONS
BETA 98H/C includes microphone, 3 m (10 ft.) high-flex cable terminated to an inline preamplifier, two snap-on
windscreens, a gooseneck angle brace, and a cable management device.
WB98H/C includes microphone, 1.6 m (5.3 ft.) high-flex cable terminated to 4–pin mini connector (TA4F) for wireless
applications, two snap-on windscreens, a gooseneck angle brace, and a cable management device.
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APPLICATIONS AND PLACEMENT
The most common BETA 98H/C applications and placement techniques are described below. Keep in mind that microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste; there is no one “correct” microphone position.
SAXOPHONE (see Figure 4): Clamp the microphone onto the bell of the saxophone, so the microphone is a few inches
from and facing into the bell. This will produce a bright tonal balance while minimizing feedback and leakage.
SOPRANO SAXOPHONE (see Figure 5) : C lamp t he m icrophone o nto t he b ell o f the saxophone and a djust the gooseneck
so the microphone is facing the keys of the instrument, a few inches from the lower keys. This will produce a warm and
full tonal balance. For a brighter tone, adjust the gooseneck so the microphone is facing into the bell, a few inches away.
TROMBONE PLACEMENT (see Figure 6): Clamp the microphone onto the bell of the trombone and adjust the gooseneck so the microphone is facing directly into the bell, a few inches away. This will produce a bright tonal balance while
providing maximum isolation.
TRUMPET PLACEMENT (see Figure 7): Clamp the microphone onto the bell of the trumpet and adjust the gooseneck
so the microphone is facing directly into the bell, a few inches away. This will produce a bright tonal balance while providing maximum isolation.
DRUM PLACEMENT (see Figure 8): Clamp the microphone onto the drum rim and adjust the gooseneck so the microphone is aiming a few inches above the drum head and an inch from the rim. This provides a full tonal balance.
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