Shure is well known for delivering quality microphones at low budgets, exported and used worldwide for their features and specifications at an affordable cost. One of Shure’s standout budget options is the SG800, a UHF wireless dynamic microphone designed as an easy to use, all-in-one package for singers, speakers, and presenters.
We tested the Shure SG800 to see how it performs in terms of features, specs, sound quality, pros, and cons, and whether it is worth buying.
Shure SG800 Review
According to Shure, the SG800 represents one of the brand’s more recent generations of wireless microphones at the time of its release. As a UHF wireless model, it has won favor with many users worldwide thanks to its combination of low price and solid features.
We have laid out all the features we noticed during testing below.
Features of the Shure SG800
Performance
The microphone offers strong performance and operational advantages, built around a frequency-agile wireless UHF system.
Auto Selectable Channels
The SG800 includes 32 user auto-selectable channels within the 25MHz band, along with a UHF range of 865MHz, giving precise channel selection in most environments.
Wide Range Frequency Response
The microphone offers a broad frequency response and resists strong disturbances such as wind or background noise thanks to its super silent function.
Rich Bass
Low total harmonic distortion (T.H.D) contributes to a richer bass response.
Power Level Indicator
A power level indicator with a signal lamp lets you know when the battery is running low and needs replacing.
Dual-Way Channel Design
The dual-way channel design provides a range of up to 50 meters in good conditions and around 30 meters in more complex environments, depending on the output circuit design.
Uniform Cardioid Pickup Pattern
The cardioid polar pattern isolates the primary sound source while minimizing background noise, which is a key part of how this microphone keeps recordings clean.
Audio Compression Technology
A built-in pop filter helps resist wind and extra noise. Combined with audio compression and expansion technology, this helps lower background noise while increasing the dynamic range of the recording.
Two Wireless Handheld Vocal Mics
The system includes two wireless handheld vocal microphones, giving flexibility for setups needing more than one mic.
Multi-Channel High Band Anti-Interference
A multi-channel high band anti-interrupting wave design helps eliminate interference, with an operating distance of about 150 meters.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Microphone type | Unidirectional dynamic microphone |
| Color | Black |
| Material | Fiber plastic, metal |
| Model name | SG-800 |
| Battery life | Over 8 hours of continuous operation |
| Product line | Music Shop |
| Weight | 3kg |
| Antenna | Built-in |
| Receiving sensitivity | 60dB S/N ratio (12dBu) |
| Receiver size | 20.5 x 17.5 x 4.7 cm |
| Signal to noise ratio | Greater than 100dB |
| Audio output level | Unbalanced mode CH A + B: 0 to 0.5V/5K |
| Power supply | 220V (+10%) |
| RF power output for mic | 1: 30mW (max) |
| Spurious emissions | 45dB carrier wave |
| Battery | Standard 2x AA batteries |
| Current consumption | 25mA |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide frequency response with a digital control circuit
- Built-in pop filter with super silent function to resist disturbance
- Low T.H.D for richer bass
- Power level indicator for low battery and power status
- Uniform cardioid polar pattern isolates the sound source and minimizes background noise
- Effective, well-built pop filter for wind and noise
- Audio compression and expansion technology for managing dynamic range
Cons
- Not well suited for very low or very high frequency sounds
- Lacks some professional-level features
Best Alternative for the Shure SG800
If the Shure SG800 is difficult to find, the Shure SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone is a strong alternative worth considering as a substitute for the SG800.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Shure SG800?
Based on its specs and features, we would recommend the Shure SG800 as a wireless microphone option. It works well for recording karaoke, voiceovers, and streaming content, and its noise cancellation helps capture more precise vocals.
Considering the specifications and features relative to its price, this microphone suits YouTubers, streamers, and anyone practicing singing or speech delivery. In our testing, it performed reliably across these use cases.
Before buying, check the latest price and availability, since pricing and product availability can change over time. If you are setting up for streaming or Discord specifically, our guide to best mic for Discord covers more options, and our guide to best wireless headset microphones for church covers similar wireless technology in another context.
