Shure WL183M Black
Professional Lavalier Microphone
- Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
- Frequency response: 70 Hz – 20,000 Hz
- Max SPL: 140.5 dB
- Sensitivity: -43.0 dBV / 1dBu / 94 dBu
- Dynamic range: 120.5 dB
- 8 mm shorter than the original WL18X series
- Cable length: 1.23 m
- Cable diameter: 2.2 mm
- TQG plug
- Dimensions: 13.6 x 12.7 mm
- Weight: 20 g
- Colour: Black
- Includes tie clip and foam windscreen
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Available since June 2024
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Item number 593991
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Colour Black
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Pattern omnidirectional
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Connector 4-pol. Shure
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Capsule Type Condenser
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Incl. Phantom Adaptor No
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Frequency range from 70 Hz
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Frequency range to 20000
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Cable Length 123 mm
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Diameter 13 mm
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Length 14 mm
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Weight 20 g
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Wire Yes
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Foam Windshield Yes
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Clamp Yes
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Bag Yes
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Flexible omni lavalier
Part of the WL18XM series – Shure's newest professional lavalier line – the WL183M is the omnidirectional model: Alongside the supercardioid and cardioid variants, all are available in black or white and fitted with either TA4F or LEMO connectors. The series represents a significant evolution from its predecessor: 8mm shorter, with a more pronounced presence lift, a wider dynamic range, and lower self-noise. The omnidirectional capsule has a near-linear frequency response, free of the proximity effect, capturing both performers' voices and surrounding sources naturally. The rotating lapel clip, adjustable in 90° steps, attaches to any clothing or costume and allows the capsule to be aimed at the speaker regardless of mounting angle.
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Dynamic by design
The WL183M's 70Hz-20kHz frequency response captures detailed mids and highs, while rolling off sub-bass rumble and clothing-rub thump before they reach the signal. Its 141dB max SPL leaves headroom for a live trumpet or any other loud source – well beyond any vocal application – while a 121dB dynamic range and 20dB SPL self-noise comfortably meet professional broadcast and live performance specifications, letting a whispered aside and a projected line sit on the same track without noise floor or clipping. The tiny footprint and omni polar pattern also lend the mic to capturing room or exterior ambience in mobile recording setups. Physically, the capsule runs on a 5V DC bias and its 1.23m cable terminates in a four-pin TA4F connector for compatible Shure bodypack transmitters (sold separately). At just 20g, the whole package sits unnoticed on a lapel.
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By pros, for pros
The WL183M is aimed at audio professionals working in broadcast, theatre, and live production – anyone who needs a discreet, reliable lavalier that performs consistently under demanding conditions. Its omnidirectional capsule eliminates the proximity effect, holding tonal balance steady when speakers turn, lean in, or move unpredictably: It's the most forgiving polar pattern for active voices, and the reason an omni lavalier remains the default choice for moderators, theatre performers, and broadcast presenters who can't always move on cue. The trade-off, inherent to any omni, is a greater susceptibility to background noise and feedback – which is why the WL18XM line also offers supercardioid and cardioid variants for more focused capture.
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About Shure
The American company Shure began developing microphones during the early 1930s and is one of the pioneers of the audio engineering sector. Models such as the 55 Unidyne – known to many as the "Elvis microphone" – and the SM57 and SM58 which appeared in the mid-1960s are still ubiquitous in live sound production today. They enjoy cult status among musicians and technicians alike. In the 1990s, Shure introduced the first wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems and became a market leader in this field. In addition to microphones, Shure offers a wide range of earphones and headphones for studio and live use, as well as various accessories.
Put on a real performance
For actors, presenters, moderators, and anyone else working with their voice, the WL183M's natural, clear reproduction requires little additional treatment, with optimal results achieved at a speaking distance of 15–25cm. For traditional presentations, roundtables, and conferences, the clip can be attached to a tie or lapel and rotates towards the speaker's face; in live performance, film, and broadcast, it disappears under the wardrobe of the actors and presenters, while the 70Hz roll-off works as a natural high-pass against costume rub and set rumble, keeping dialogue audible. The snap-fit foam windscreen and zippered storage bag complete a package that is as practical in the field as it is reliable on stage.
