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PL80a

Dynamic Supercardioid

Vocal Microphone

General Description:

Key Features:

•  EQ-friendly sonic contour
•  Highly detailed frequency response
•  Supercardioid polar pattern
•  Powerful Neodymium magnet structure
•  Shock mounted capsule and low handling noise
•  Fine mesh Memraflex™ grille

Thank you for purchasing the Electro-Voice® PL80a. This product is 
a premium-grade supercardioid dynamic microphone designed to 
elegantly capture the character of vocals in live sound applications. 
The PL80a’s “EQ-friendly” sonic contour adapts well to any vocal 
texture allowing vocals to sit nicely in the mix without being harsh. 
The enhanced isolation provided by its supercardioid polar pattern is 
an excellent defense against system feedback and cross-talk bleed 
emanating from other nearby sound sources. The result is higher 
gain before feedback and cleaner stage mixes. Although designed 
to be a vocal microphone for music and spoken word, the PL80a will 
also function well as an instrument or amplifier microphone where a 
dynamic element capsule would be desired.

Application Notes:

As with most directional microphones, the low frequency response 
of the PL80a microphone varies with the distance from the sound 
source. Known as “proximity effect”, the bass response of the 
microphone increases as the working distance to the microphone is 
reduced. This “bass boost” is only audible when working at distances 
closer than 6 inches. Using this microphone at distances greater 
than 6 inches provides minimal coloration from proximity effect.

Proximity effect can be used to your advantage when a thin voice 
is being recorded. As the vocalist decreases their working distance 
to the microphone, the low frequency content is enhanced. Close-
up positioning of the microphone will also reduce the potential for 
feedback from the sound reinforcement system. When close-talked, 
the bass-boost provides an increase in overall microphone output 
level. The mixer gain may be proportionately reduced, resulting in 
a reduction of the system’s sensitivity to feedback caused by the 
sound entering the microphone from the loudspeakers.

Warranty:

This Electro-Voice® PL80a product is guaranteed against malfunc-
tion due to defects in materials or workmanship for a period of three 
(3) years from the date of original purchase. Please refer to the 
Limited Warranty card included with your product for further warranty 
information.

Technical Specifications:

Element Type: Dynamic, Neodymium Magnet

Structure

Frequency Response: 80 Hz - 16,000 Hz

Polar Pattern: Supercardioid

Sensitivity, Open Circuit 

Voltage, 1 kHz:

2.2 mV/Pa (-53 dBV)

Polarity: Positive pressure on diaphragm 

produces positive voltage on pin 2 
relative to pin 3

Rated Impedance: 600 ohms

Microphone Connector: 3-pin, XLR-type

Finish: Textured black satin handle with 

Memraflex

TM

 grille

Dimensions: Length = 7.44” (189.0 mm)                       

Width = 2.00” (50.7 mm)                        
Shank = 1.01” (25.6 mm)          

Accessories Included: Stand adapter with Euro-thread 

insert,  Soft zippered gig bag

Net Weight: 11.8 oz (333 g)

Shipping Weight: 20.7 oz (587 g)

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