Shure QLXD2/SM86 Handheld Transmitter with SM86 Microphone

Product Overview

The Shure QLXD2/SM86 is a QLD-D digital wireless handheld transmitter fitted with the SM86 cardioid condenser capsule, delivering 24-bit digital audio for wireless vocal applications in presentation spaces, music venues, houses of worship, and broadcast studios. The SM86 condenser capsule offers a flat, extended frequency response suited to environments where natural, uncolored vocal reproduction is preferred, making the QLXD2/SM86 a strong choice for spoken-word presentations, panel discussions, and vocal performance applications in commercial AV installations.

Product Description

The QLXD2/SM86 pairs the transparent 24-bit digital performance of the QLXD2 transmitter platform with the SM86's studio-derived condenser capsule design. With a 100-meter operating range and one-touch IR sync to a paired QLXD4 receiver, the system is straightforward to commission in multi-channel commercial AV deployments. The all-metal transmitter body withstands high-rotation use in installed and touring environments. The interchangeable RPW capsule system allows the transmitter to be refitted with a different Shure capsule as application requirements change. An optional SB900C rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of runtime. For a dynamic capsule alternative better suited to high-SPL stage applications, see the Shure QLXD2/SM58.

Key Features

• SM86 Cardioid Condenser Capsule — Studio-quality condenser design delivers a flat, extended frequency response for natural vocal reproduction in presentation, worship, and broadcast environments.
• 24-Bit Digital Audio — Transparent QLD-D digital wireless transmission preserves the full fidelity of the SM86 capsule without noise floor limitations of analog wireless systems.
• 100-Meter Operating Range — Clear, uninterrupted signal up to 100 m (330 ft) covering large sanctuaries, auditoriums, and multi-zone commercial AV spaces.
• One-Touch IR Sync — Infrared sync with a paired QLXD4 receiver enables fast frequency coordination at system setup.
• Interchangeable RPW Capsule System — Compatible with the full Shure RPW capsule lineup, allowing capsule changes without replacing the transmitter body.
• All-Metal Construction — Touring-grade metal housing provides durability for commercial AV and performing arts applications.
• Efficient RF Spectrum Usage — QLD-D digital modulation supports higher channel counts in RF-dense commercial environments.
• Optional SB900C Rechargeable Battery — Up to 10 hours runtime with hours-and-minutes battery status reporting.

Typical Applications

• House of worship
• Auditorium
• Broadcast studio
• Conference room
• Government space
• Training room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the SM86 condenser capsule differ from the SM58 dynamic in a commercial AV context?
The SM86 condenser delivers a flatter, more extended frequency response for natural vocal reproduction, preferred in presentation and broadcast environments. The SM58 dynamic is better suited to high-SPL stage applications and environments where robustness to handling noise is a priority.

Which receiver is required for the QLXD2/SM86?
A Shure QLXD4 single-channel or QLXD4Q quad-channel receiver in the same frequency band is required. Frequency bands must match for proper operation.

Can the SM86 capsule be replaced with another RPW capsule?
Yes. The QLXD2 body supports the full Shure RPW capsule lineup, allowing a swap to SM58, Beta 87C, KSM9, or other capsules without replacing the transmitter body.

Is the SM86 condenser sensitive to environmental humidity?
Condenser capsules are generally more sensitive to humidity than dynamic capsules. For high-humidity environments, a dynamic capsule option such as the SM58 may be more suitable. Consult Shure's application guidance for specific environment requirements.