Shure QLXD2/SM87 Handheld Transmitter with SM87 Microphone

Product Overview

The Shure QLXD2/SM87 is a QLD-D digital wireless handheld transmitter fitted with the SM87 supercardioid condenser capsule, delivering 24-bit digital audio for wireless vocal applications in broadcast studios, houses of worship, auditoriums, and commercial AV installations requiring precise off-axis rejection and a transparent, detailed vocal sound. The SM87's supercardioid polar pattern provides tighter pickup than cardioid designs, making it well-suited for multi-mic stage environments and installed spaces where isolation between adjacent microphones is a priority.

Product Description

The QLXD2/SM87 pairs the SM87 supercardioid condenser with the transparent 24-bit digital wireless performance of the QLXD2 transmitter platform. The SM87's extended high-frequency response delivers the detail and presence characteristic of studio condenser microphones in a wireless handheld format, while the QLXD2's 100-meter range and one-touch IR sync provide the reliability required for commercial AV and live production deployments. The all-metal transmitter accepts the full range of Shure RPW interchangeable capsules, preserving transmitter body investment as capsule requirements evolve. An optional SB900C rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of runtime. For a cardioid condenser alternative, see the Shure QLXD2/SM86.

Key Features

• SM87 Supercardioid Condenser Capsule — Studio-quality condenser design with supercardioid polar pattern delivers a detailed, transparent vocal sound with tighter off-axis rejection than standard cardioid designs.
• 24-Bit Digital Audio — Transparent QLD-D digital wireless transmission preserves the full frequency response and dynamic range of the SM87 capsule without analog companding limitations.
• 100-Meter Operating Range — Clear, uninterrupted signal up to 100 m (330 ft) covering large sanctuaries, auditoriums, and multi-zone commercial AV environments.
• One-Touch IR Sync — Infrared sync with a paired QLXD4 receiver enables fast, reliable frequency coordination at system commissioning.
• 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 long-term reliability in high-use commercial AV, worship, and broadcast environments.
• 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 precise hours-and-minutes battery status reporting.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the SM87 and SM86 capsules on the QLXD2?
The SM87 has a supercardioid polar pattern, which provides tighter off-axis rejection than the SM86's cardioid pattern. The SM87 is preferred in multi-mic environments where isolation between adjacent microphones is important. Both are condenser capsules with flat frequency responses.

Which receiver is required for the QLXD2/SM87?
A Shure QLXD4 single-channel or QLXD4Q quad-channel receiver in the same frequency band is required for system operation.

Is the SM87 condenser capsule appropriate for outdoor or high-humidity commercial installations?
Condenser capsules are more sensitive to humidity than dynamic designs. For outdoor or high-humidity environments, a dynamic capsule option such as the SM58 (QLXD2/SM58) may be a more reliable long-term choice. Consult Shure's application guidelines for specific environment considerations.

Can the SM87 capsule be swapped for another RPW capsule?
Yes. The QLXD2 body accepts the full range of Shure RPW interchangeable capsules, allowing future capsule changes without purchasing a new transmitter body.