Shure VP83F Microphone Review
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No other medium is as closely tied to sound as video. The twin powers of video and audio allow viewers to fully immerse themselves in the experience of watching. Filmmaking, journalism, and even simple vlogging are made possible through great video and audio, and creators need the tools to be able to execute that. Today, we’re going to look at the Shure VP83F microphone, and how this tool allows creators to bring their content to the next level.
About the Shure VP83F
| Polar Pattern | Supercardioid/Lobar |
| Frequency Response | 50-20,000 Hz |
| Recording Format | WAV, 24-bit, 48 kHz Sampling Rate |
| Sensitivity | -35.8 dBV/Pa (16.2 mV) at 0 dB gain, -5.8 dBV/Pa (512.9 mV) at +30 dB gain |
| Maximum SPL | 129.2 dBSPL |
| Self Noise | 15.6 dB SPL-A |
It’s no secret that Shure is one of the top brands in the audio recording industry. One look at their catalog reveals a number of microphones that have set the standard, such as the Shure SM58 and the Shure SM7B. The company is well known for its incredible sound quality and durability, and that’s what consumers and professionals have come to expect from the Shure brand.
In our Shure VP83F microphone review today, we’ll examine whether that patented Shure quality carries over into this model. While Shure microphones have more than proven their worth in the studio, it’s time to see whether they hold up in the great outdoors.
Shure VP83F Pros
The Shure VP83F is a compact barrel mic with a supercardioid or lobar polar pattern. Meant to be mounted on a DSLR camera for top-quality audio and video recording, the VP83F aims to replace all the bulky extra equipment that makes recording on the go impossible. Let’s take a look at its features and see if it measures up to that aim.
Not Your Ordinary Mic
There are certain qualities that mark whether a DSLR microphone is professional-quality or not. These qualities can range from lower noise levels (its self-noise is at just 15.6 dB SPL-A) to a sturdier mount and suspension, to an industry-standard 3.5 mm dual-mono connector.
While the VP83F definitely checks off all of the standard qualities for a top-level DSLR microphone, it also offers users so much more. One thing that users can look forward to is its internal recording capabilities. While the VP83F can record to an external device normally, users also have the option to record to the microphone’s internal SD card simultaneously. This creates redundancy in recordings that let you breathe easily after a difficult shoot.
Shure Quality Audio
Shure is a heavyweight when it comes to great audio, and the Shure VP83F is no different. In fact, the VP83F has clarity, liveliness, and consistency that rank it among the best when it comes to DSLR cameras. The off-axis sound rejection is great, although it could be further enhanced with an optional furry windscreen.
What makes it even better than most DSLR mics on the market however is its built-in preamp. It’s among the best in the business and allows the VP83F to record great-quality sound internally with none of the fuss. With this kind of top-level internal preamp and digital converter, the VP83F elevates your entire recording process.
Professional Ease
Professional filmmakers and videographers know that in actual real-life recording situations, finding the ideal recording conditions can be next to impossible. That’s why it’s so important to have a microphone that can do the work for you, and that’s precisely what the VP83F is able to do.
Its supercardioid pattern allows you to focus on the sounds that really matter, without fear of extra noise and clutter. Plus, with the VP83F’s ability to monitor through headphones, you can make sure you’re capturing the right sound right as you record it.
Road Ready Build
Anyone who’s familiar with Shure knows that the company produces microphones that are meant to hold up to years of wear and tear. The VP83F is no different, with a durable build that can weather years of hard use.
While its price range does put it a little bit on the pricier side, especially for beginner videographers, one thing you can count on is that it’s an investment that’s meant to last you years. Once you buy the VP83F, it’s hard to see why you’d settle for any other DSLR microphone.
Complex Machinery
That being said, the Shure VP83F does have a bit of a learning curve. While it’s definitely an impressive piece of gear on its own, the myriad controls and tiny LCD screen on the back of the microphone can make adjusting on the go pretty complicated.
If you’re an absolute beginner when it comes to professional-level recording, this isn’t exactly a plug-and-play tool. However, once you’ve adjusted to the controls, you can look forward to pretty smooth sailing with your Shure VP83F from then on.
Pros and Cons of the Shure VP83F
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Has an LCD screen for controls ✔ Delivers great audio quality ✔ Has an integrated audio recorder | ✖️ Pricey ✖️ Can be complicated to use |
What People Are Saying
Overall, the Shure VP83F is an incredible piece of equipment. Definitely one of the better quality DSLR microphones on the market, it’s a fantastic tool that allows you to capture professional-level recordings all the time. With its built-in monitoring and the option to record with the mic’s internal preamp and memory, you don’t have to worry about failed recordings ever again.
“Works perfectly. Batteries are a pain though. Wished it would have came with a wind sock for outside video.”
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Reviewer – Nero From BestBuy
Where to Buy the Shure VP83F
The Shure VP83F is an impressive microphone and ranks among the best in the industry when it comes to DSLR microphones. Although there is a learning curve when it comes to using the VP83F, and the price isn’t exactly amateur-friendly, buying the VP83F means investing in your audio quality for the long term. With a durable build and that incredible Shure make and engineering, you’re pretty much set for life. Find the best deals for the Shure VP83F Microphone here.
Shure VP83F
The Shure VP83F is a remarkable microphone that combines advanced features with exceptional audio performance. With its LCD screen for control, this microphone offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface, allowing users to easily adjust settings and monitor levels during recording sessions.
A notable feature of the VP83F is its ability to deliver superb audio quality. Whether you’re capturing vocals, interviews, or ambient sound, this microphone consistently produces crisp and clear recordings, ensuring that every nuance is captured accurately.
Another impressive feature of the VP83F is its integrated audio recorder. This unique functionality allows users to record audio directly onto a microSD card, providing a convenient and efficient solution for on-the-go recording.
The microphone’s built-in recorder offers reliable backup and flexibility, enabling users to capture audio independently without the need for additional equipment.
The Shure VP83F is a professional-grade microphone that ticks all the boxes for demanding audio applications. With its exceptional performance and innovative features, the VP83F sets a new standard in portable audio recording.
