3
Cardioid Condenser Microphone
PG Alta Microphones
Congratulations on the purchase of a new Shure PG Alta series microphone. The PG Alta series delivers professional
quality audio at an affordable price, with solutions for capturing nearly any source, including voice, acoustic instruments,
drums, and amplified electric instruments. Suitable for live and studio applications, PG Alta microphones are built to
last, and meet the same rigorous quality testing standards that make all Shure products trustworthy and reliable.
General Rules for Use
• Do not cover any part of the microphone grille with
your hand, as this will adversely affect microphone
performance.
• Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source
(such as the talker, singer, or instrument) and away
from unwanted sources.
• Place the microphone as close as practical to the
desired sound source.
• Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.
• Use only one microphone to pick up a single sound
source.
• For better gain before feedback, use fewer
microphones.
• Keep the distance between microphones at least three
times the distance from each microphone to its source
(“three to one rule”).
• Place microphones as far as possible from reflective
surfaces.
• Add a windscreen when using the microphone
outdoors.
• Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of
mechanical noise and vibration.
PGA81
Phantom Power
All condenser microphones require phantom power to
operate. This microphone performs best with a 48 V
DC supply (IEC-61938), but it can operate with lower
voltages.
Phantom power is provided by the mixer or audio
interface that the microphone is connected to, and
requires the use of a balanced microphone cable: XLR-
to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS. In most cases, there is a switch or
button to activate the phantom power. See the user guide
for the mixer or interface for additional information.
Proximity Effect
Directional microphones progressively boost bass
frequencies as the microphone is placed in closer
proximity to the source. This phenomenon, known as
proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more
powerful sound.
