- Anthony
Shure microphones are a popular choice for those in the music industry. If you’re thinking about purchasing a microphone, read the Shure microphone review first.
The Shure microphone is popular with many music artists and audio engineers. It is known for its high quality and durability. The company has been making microphones for over 90 years, and their products are used in studios all over the world.
Contents
- 1 Pros And Cons
- 2 Who Should Purchase The Shure SM58 Review?
- 3 Our Review of Shure SM58 Microphone: Overview
- 4 Design and Use
- 5 Sound Quality
- 6 Top 8 Best Shure Microphones Of 2023 Review
- 6.1 1. Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- 6.2 2. Shure BETA 91A Half-Cardioid Condenser
- 6.3 3. Shure SM-57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone
- 6.4 4. Shure MV88+ Video Kit with Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android
- 6.5 5. Shure BETA 56A Supercardioid
- 6.6 6. Shure BETA 52A Supercardioid Dynamic Kick Drum Microphone
- 6.7 7. Shure 55SH Series II Iconic Unidyne Dynamic Vocal Microphone
- 6.8 8. Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone
- 7 FAQs
- 7.1 Can this vocal microphone be connected to a 3.5mm microphone Jack via an XLR-to-3.5mm cable?
- 7.2 Can I buy a knockoff Shure SM58 vocal microphone review?
- 7.3 I’m new to mics for computers. I have a Shure58. Do I need an XLR male and female? I don’t want all the software and gadgetry required to make it work.
- 7.4 How is the wireless Shure SX2/SM58?
- 7.5 What is the working principle of a mic stand?
- 8 Conclusion
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Durability construction
- The cardioid pickup pattern
- Midrange recording emphasis
- A mic stand adapter and zip pouch
- The internal shock mount reduces handling noise
- Live performances are possible because of their ability to withstand loud volumes and background noise rejection.
Cons
- Studio recording requires an external pop filter
- SM57 is a better choice for close-micing instruments
- It is not very sensitive and therefore not ideal for taking intimate details.
Who Should Purchase The Shure SM58 Review?
- Since its inception, performing musicians have used the Shure SM58s review and love its rugged construction and vocal-emphasized frequency response.
- A uniform cardioid polar pattern is an excellent option for podcasters. It effectively reduces background noise and requires little effort to place well.
Our Review of Shure SM58 Microphone: Overview
Shure is the best friend of a singer. It is one of the first mic and well-respected and popular manufacturers of microphones worldwide. This reputation is because it has been making some of the best microphones in the world since 1932. These mics are industry standard.
Shure’s vast experience allows it to create vocal microphones with an incredible live performance that outperforms its competitors.
Every musician and music producer should know about the Shure SM58 microphone review. Why? It is a favorite microphone of almost all music producers and singers. It is one of the most popular microphones in the entire world.
It was first produced in 1966 and has maintained a stellar reputation. Many have loved its popularity, including Alice Cooper, Roger Daltry, Henry Rollins, and Paul McCartney.
The Shure SM58’s durability is key to its success as a live mic. The Shure SM58 review sound and sound are far more durable than that. It is virtually indestructible.
It has been through many excellent tests to prove its indestructibility. It has been submerged in Guinness, frozen, shot with a shotgun, and run over by buses. Each of these tests proved it to be resilient.
It’s amazing. It’s not hard to see why Henry Rollins is so fond of it. The Shure SM58 is capable of enduring more than impact and pressure. It also works in zero gravity. This was demonstrated in 2011 when it was used to interview astronauts at the International Space Station.
A great microphone is dependent on sound. It’s built with a cardioid design to ensure that it doesn’t give off feedback to on-stage performers.
The live microphone also features a pop filter that allows for smooth vocals without the annoying pops or plosives you get from a lower-quality microphone like the Shure SM58.
The vocal microphone has a presence peak, which is a feature that makes your vocals sound more prosperous, more balanced, and smoother than other mics.
You will also find a more comprehensive frequency response range with the Shure SM58. It performs flawlessly across the frequency range, with deep lows, clear middles, and well-represented highs.
The Shure SM58 microphone is an exceptional one. Because it is superior to its competitors, it sells better. It delivers exceptional quality of sound and consistent live performance for vocalists. It is an affordable microphone that will pay for itself quickly and lasts a lot longer.
Design and Use
Design
You will need an XLR cable and a recording interface (voice recorder or multi-input amp) to use the cardioid dynamic mic. You will need Audacity recording software if you plan to use this microphone for YouTube or podcast recording. You’re now ready to record and jam out.
The SM58 is a solid piece of hardware in terms of build quality. The SM58’s simple design shows that function is more important than form. It has a removable grille made of steel that can be removed and replaced easily.
This great mic is covered by a spherical filter that reduces harshness from plosives or fricatives (-p,-t,-k, or -f) sounds. Its rugged tapered metal chassis has been a reliable feature, making it an excellent microphone even after 54 years. The internal shock-mount system reduces vibration-induced noises.
You get a small pouch for your stuff and a stand adapter and case that can be used to rotate 180 degrees. The adapter is made from thick plastic, which feels indestructible.
This is the best XLR microphone, so USB connections are not an option. You will need an XLR cable. It is a dynamic low-impedance microphone (150O) and does not require phantom power or high gain to produce a helpful signal.
You don’t need a preamp. It won’t harm your mic if you accidentally activate the phantom power by plugging it in. An interface with an XLR input is required to record directly to your computer. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is our favorite. To edit the audio, you will need software.
Use
Shure SM58 dynamic cardioid microphone. Although it is easy to be distracted by the many syllables, it is durable, does not require phantom power, and excels when it records what is in front of it.
Cardioid microphones are popular because they can be used in a variety of situations and allow for flexibility. Although off-axis rejection can be helpful, too much rejection and not enough precision in placement can result in a poor recording.
While cardioid pickup patterns can detect ambient noise, they effectively ignore quiet sounds behind them.
Talk at least six inches from the microphone to get the best sound. To reduce echoes and background noise pollution in a studio setting, properly treat it.
Sound Quality
Aside from the robust build of the SM58, what’s important is how the thing sounds.
The Shure SM58 microphone is among the most powerful in its class. The frequency response of the Shure SM58 is 50Hz-15kHz. This is to emphasize vocals. Therefore, it has a sloping attenuation range from 40-100Hz.
It perfectly represents a wide frequency response, performing just as well at the low end as the high.
This is done to counter the proximity effect, which occurs when the sound source is too near to the microphone. It causes bass frequencies to be exaggerated.
The de-emphasized low notes also reduce the need to apply a high pass filter to your audio to enhance live vocals.
Recording low-frequency sounds, such as kick drums and bass guitars, may be a case where the frequency response is not beneficial. The sound source will sound much quieter than vocals, acoustic guitar, and most chords on the Shure SM58. Editing can be done to increase the volume, but this may cause distortion.
A pop filter is a good investment if you use the microphone in controlled environments. An external shield is a great option. It’s not as good as an internal filter, but it will simplify editing and save you time. A must in anyone’s mic locker.
As of August 3, 2019, 320 readers had positive reviewed the mic sample above as okay to good. Almost nothing fails about thí mic.
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Top 8 Best Shure Microphones Of 2023 Review
1. Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Best Dynamic Vocal Shure Microphone
This has always been a very nice mic and is regularly used. And the fact that it was utilized on one of the best-selling albums of all time boosted its standing. It needs to be exceptional to be featured in a list of the greatest Shure microphones. And this is unique.
This Dynamic microphone offers a Cardioid pattern, and the customary durable Shure build quality. It weighs two pounds and measures 7.47 by 3.78 by 5.81 inches. As a result, it will need a robust stand.
Exceptionally adaptable
This is a microphone designed to handle a wide range of situations. However, it shines in the recording studio. It is simply wonderful for voice or instrument recording and radio broadcasting.
Because of its flat, wide-ranging frequency, the response may generate a natural sound for speech, singing, or instruments. It offers a plethora of built-in functions that improve sound quality.
There are bass roll-off and presence increase controls and a display that shows the settings. It also features a highly effective built-in pop-filter. However, many users still use an external filter. It’s a sensitive mic, so make sure any background noise is eliminated.
Extra filters reduce external interferences such as computer displays and electromagnetic hum. It incorporates an air suspension shock isolation technology, reducing handling noise to near-zero levels. These built-in capabilities result in a pure sound that is unaffected by any background noise.
Vocal recordings of exceptional quality
This guarantees that it will thrive in the recording studio, where this level of performance is critical. This mic will provide a lot of lift to your recordings, particularly the vocals. When used appropriately, it will provide high-quality results.
And it’s not only Michael Jackson who has made considerable use of this microphone in the studio. It is also the preference of many performers, including country-pop diva Sheryl Crow and rockers like Anthony Keidis of Red Hot Chili Peppers and James Hetfield of Metallica.
As with most Shure microphones, the pricing for what you receive and the quality generated are astounding. It may be a little power-demanding, so that you may need a decent preamp. One of the best Shure microphones on the market? Naturally, it is.
PROS
- Excellent build quality with a plethora of built-in functions.
- The frequency response is flat and broad.
CONS
- You may need a good preamp to get the most out of it.
2. Shure BETA 91A Half-Cardioid Condenser
Best Shure Microphone for Recording Kick In
If you like something out of the ordinary, this microphone will appeal to you. This mic is intended to be used in conjunction with a kick drum. It has a distinctive form and does not need support. When not in use, place it inside the bass drum on a pillow or blanket. It measures 10 inches by 5 inches and weighs a hefty two pounds.
Shure’s design incorporates elements from its SM91 and Beta 91 models into a single microphone.
Pianos and kicks?
The ideal way to utilize this microphone is to place it about the sound source.
This is an Electret condenser microphone with a half-cardioid pattern. As a result, it will gather a significant amount of external sound. That may be a nice concept inside the shell of a bass drum and produce some serious resonance. But don’t only think drums with this mic. This will sound fantastic inside a grand piano concert.
There are no loudness issues.
The 20Hz-20kHz frequency range is intended to capture those deep, low noises. With an SPL value of 155dB, it is well equipped to withstand those hefty bass drum transients.
This is a fantastic and highly original design with its preamp. There is also a contour switch; this two-position dial allows you to get the greatest sound out of the beater.
It is a strong microphone designed in the typical Shure manner. It is intended to serve a purpose. However, it is not a very inexpensive microphone compared to the normal Shure pricing point.
PROS
- Has a wide frequency range and a high SPL.
- A microphone stand is not required.
CONS
- It’s rather massive and heavy.
3. Shure SM-57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Most Versatile Shure Microphone
This Shure microphone is likely to be regarded as an industry standard. It may potentially be the most renowned microphone of all time. It’s utilized by almost all vocalists, musicians, and recording engineers.
It was created as an instrument mic but has also been commonly used for voices. It is quite content to perform in the studio or on stage. If you want to record voices or drums (particularly the saner drum), it will be difficult, if not impossible, to find anything better at this price range. However, it also performs well when miking up amplifiers.
Absolute adaptability
Let’s just say that, apart from being the most widely utilized snare drum microphone ever recorded, it’s also likely the most regularly used on electric guitar combinations and cabinets. It’s also been utilized extensively in the studio and live by everyone from Paul Rogers of Free to Lemmy from Motorhead!
It is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern suitable for a wide range of applications. When working with one instrument on stage, the adjacent pickup sound from other instruments is poor. This also limits the possibility of feedback and provides you with more benefits.
It works on almost any sound.
The natural presence is well-known, as is the 40 to 15,000 Hz frequency response. They provide a superb sound when recording drums, guitars, and vocals. And it is well-known for its adaptability in dealing with a wide range of situations. It’s the kind of mic you have in the studio as a backup for any occasion.
There aren’t many professional studios where you won’t find at least one, if not a box full of them.
Durable as old boots
Of course, being Shure, it has a very sturdy construction. When you first encounter one, the headshell itself seems fragile. Not a single piece of it. This one is as tough as old boots. It will accept everything you throw at it and ask if that’s the best you can do. And, as previously said, Lemmy used it live, so it has to be that harsh.
Having an adaptable mic that provides this much quality in your setup is vital at any level. The low price point makes it an easy pick. Simply grab one or two? It is the greatest cheap microphone available and a serious candidate for the Best Shure microphone ever!
PROS
- Versatile, suitable for both voices and instruments.
- A solid construction at an affordable price.
CONS
- None.
4. Shure MV88+ Video Kit with Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android
Best Smartphone Shure Microphone
From Elvis, Jailhouse Rock, and 1950s nostalgia to the present day. This is a Shure microphone designed for use with Apple devices. It is also Android-compatible. However, it should be noted that not all Android devices supply sufficient power or support USB audio.
This is a special-purpose microphone. That of collaborating with filmmakers, vloggers, and podcast creators. It is compatible with the ShurePlus audio and video applications. These improve operating performance and provide you with more control over your recordings. You may also share and save your work in a variety of formats.
There are several alternatives.
Aside from real-time audio control, there are five built-in DSP choices, stereo width, and gain settings. High-quality recordings are created at a bit/sample rate of 24-bit/48 kHz. There is a built-in headphone output on the mic for monitoring. It offers polar pattern settings that allow you to record in various ways.
Lightning and USB-C cables are supplied to connect to iOS and other compatible devices and computers. However, it should be noted that the MV88 does not accept adapters for connecting to other inputs; it only supports Lightning (iOS).
Quality at an affordable price
It’s a little mic and stand that measures 7.5 by 4.4 by 4.4 inches and weighs under one pound. It also comes with its solid tripod support. It is reasonably priced and of high quality, as expected from Shure.
It is intended for certain jobs and operates as you would expect a Shure to behave.
PROS
- A nice bundle for individuals who create audio and video.
- Small and simple to use.
CONS
- This is not a cheap alternative.
5. Shure BETA 56A Supercardioid
Best Shure Microphone for Horns
The frequency response of the Beta 56A is intended to provide high-quality recorded sound for instruments such as horns and woodwinds, and drums. It features a super-cardioid polar pattern, lowering ambient noise and concentrating on the target source. This pattern is known to have a feedback-reducing threshold.
It sports a classic, sturdy Shure design with a metal shell and a hardened steel mesh grille. As is typical with Shure microphones, it is ready to get to work and take a few knocks.
Exactly where you want it
It features a lockable stand adaptor, which is always essential for recording instruments. This is usually a good idea since it gives you additional choices for positioning the microphone. It has an XLR connection.
Inside is a high-quality neodymium magnet that generates a high signal-to-noise ratio output. Many of the characteristics in previous Shure Beta series microphones may also be found in the Beta 56A. The pneumatic shock mount is one of the most crucial. This is a system designed to decrease mechanical noise and vibration. This is critical in creating a decent recording since such noise is prevalent.
A deserving successor
The 56A is the model that replaces the popular Beta 56. The internal workings are the same; however, the base tightening and mounting actions have been redesigned. As with the Beta 56, this is intended for instrument recordings, but it can also handle voice recordings. The price is set at a reasonable level.
PROS
- An excellent instrument and voice mic.
- Excellent value.
CONS
- Its functioning is more restricted than that of certain other Shure microphones.
6. Shure BETA 52A Supercardioid Dynamic Kick Drum Microphone
Best Shure Kick Drum Microphone
Shure is well-known for producing high-quality microphones. Some of those microphones have a broad range of functions and applications, so they are popular. Occasionally, though, they produce a microphone that, while having alternatives, is tailored for a single function. Beta 52A is one of them.
This is a dynamic microphone intended for use with the kick drum. It seems to be constructed in this manner. It is made of die-cast metal and features a steel mesh grille that will withstand some wear and tear. It comes with a stand adaptor that locks into place, making it simple to set up within the bass drum. There are also XLR connectors.
Design with a high gain
A super-cardioid pattern is used inside, providing high gain, having a low feedback ratio, and ignoring undesired noise. For the high signal-to-noise ratios, a Neodymium magnet is used.
People who record drums will tell you that sound bleed and overspill are common issues. Mics that pick up on more than one drum or cymbal. Shure developed a modified pattern that rejects the most undesirable noise, recognizing that it is impossible to prevent.
SPL is high.
Any possible mechanical noise is minimized to near zero. This is due to a pneumatic shock mount mechanism that eliminates vibrations. It has a colossal SPL of 174dB. As a result, it provides studio-quality performance even at extremely high sound pressure levels. This mic is designed to pick up low frequencies and does an excellent job.
While we’re on kick drums, how about putting one in front of a bass cabinet? We believe the outcomes will surprise you. Shure has once again produced a microphone that excels in one area while excelling in another.
What words can you use to describe it?
Excellent and results-oriented design. What about the cost? As usual, competition is fierce.
PROS
- It features extremely sturdy construction with a built-in lockable stand adaptor.
- Fantastic outcomes at a very reasonable price.
CONS
- Nothing that we can see.
7. Shure 55SH Series II Iconic Unidyne Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Shure Microphone with the Most Vintage Appearance
Shure launched the model 55 Unidyne in 1939. Several well-known musicians, including Billie Holliday, utilized it. But it truly took off when Elvis picked it up in the 1950s.
The Electro-Voice RE-15 was not Elvis’ favorite microphone. But those magnificent photographs of him doing his thing with the Shure 55 Unidyne will live on forever. Of course, the insides have changed, but the form remains. It still makes you think of ‘Jailhouse Rock.’ This is your track if you want to use genuine nostalgia in your recordings or on stage.
An antique casing delivers modern performance.
This is not a piece of musical equipment that has to pretend to be old. Take a look at it. However, you may get a modern performance inside a traditional appearance by using new technologies.
It is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern that is ideal for live and studio applications. This is essentially a vocal mic. It can also handle some instruments and guitar cabinets fairly well. Its frequency response ranges from 50 to 15,000 Hz.
Do you think you’ll need a microphone stand?
It features that strong Shure build quality, with a die-cast case that can resist a few blows. It has dimensions of 7.5 by 2.18 by 3.1 inches and weighs a little under two pounds. It’s not light, and some will find it weighty if used-handed.
There’s also a pop filter.
A foam filter is located underneath the tough metal grille. This is a feature designed specifically for voice usage. The goal is to eliminate plosives and fricatives. This is true, but you should still apply a pop filter.
However, you may not need it at a distance of six inches from the mic, and the built-in filter will suffice. The cartridge also has an integrated shock mount to minimize handling or mic stand noise.
Perfect placement
It features a self-tensioning swivel mount. It can rotate 80 degrees backward and tilt 45 degrees, and there is a simple on/off button.
This is the one if you want a fantastic mic mostly for voices and believe a little nostalgia and vintage vibe would be good. Wonderful microphone, great performance, and great pricing. How often do we have to repeat that this is one of the best Shure microphones?
PROS
- A really fine voice mic with a strong sense of nostalgia for the 1950s.
- Great sound at an affordable price.
CONS
- A little too hefty for handed usage.
8. Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone
Best Shure Vocal Condenser Microphone
Shure’s BETA 87A is high-quality, even by Shure’s standards. They are well-known for their capacity to handle almost everything thrown at them. However, ruggedness and durable construction must go a step further when it comes to speech microphones. It does with this microphone. It takes a certain kind of person to be able to bear performances night after night.
This mic combines the best of what is needed for studio work with what is required for a live concert. Its super-cardioid condenser pattern captures every emotion and detail of the voice performance. It captures stylistic shifts via accurate articulation. One of the best things about this microphone is that it can be utilized for various genres.
Supercardioid shape
Condenser microphones have the disadvantage of being very sensitive. This implies they will record almost everything that happens around them. This might result in feedback and a complete lack of control over the sound.
The microphone’s super-cardioid design captures just the most direct signal sources. You must be directly in front of this microphone, or it will reject you. We won’t claim there will be no overspill, but it will be minimal.
Feedback has been reduced.
It features a frequency response range of 50Hz to 20kHz consistent across all frequencies. It will provide you with far greater gain before feedback happens. Because this is a condenser microphone, it will need +48v Phantom power.
A very nice voice mic at an affordable price.
PROS
- A robustly constructed microphone designed for continuous usage.
- Good voice reproduction at an affordable price.
CONS
- None
FAQs
Can this vocal microphone be connected to a 3.5mm microphone Jack via an XLR-to-3.5mm cable?
Yes. A female XLR adapter to a male 3.5mm adapter is required. A female 1/2″ to male 1/4″ adapter can be used if you don’t have one.
You may have trouble getting a balanced sound signal, and it won’t optimize your sound quality. It’s hard to know what you’re looking for, so we can’t give you any recommendations.
However, we recommend something different if you’re using it with a DSLR, such as the Rode VideoMic. This is a purpose-made shotgun microphone that will pick up voices better.
Can I buy a knockoff Shure SM58 vocal microphone review?
While knockoffs are possible, they won’t likely produce the same quality audio as the SM58. The Shure SM58 is $100 more expensive than the SM58 because it has an internal pneumatic shockmount and other internal hardware that makes its sound unique. For good reason.
I’m new to mics for computers. I have a Shure58. Do I need an XLR male and female? I don’t want all the software and gadgetry required to make it work.
Although we recommend investing in a USB interface as it preserves sound quality from the mic to your computer’s speakers, you can also get a USB-to-XLR cable which is cheaper and more user-friendly.
It won’t provide the same sound quality as a USB interface, but it will work well for most simple projects.
How is the wireless Shure SX2/SM58?
The microphone capsule in the wireless Shure SLX2/SM58 is precisely the same as that found in the wired SM58. This ensures the mic quality is the same.
The critical difference between the SLX2/SM58 and the SM58 is a transmitter integrated into its handle. This connects via radio frequencies to a separate receiver unit.
Wireless connectivity is possible thanks to this. Because the Shure SLX2/SM58 can operate on 960 frequencies, it is not susceptible to interference from other wireless devices.
What is the working principle of a mic stand?
A live microphone stand is an amount that can be used to support a microphone. The microphone stand allows the microphone to be placed in the studio, on the stage, or location. It does not require a person to hold it. A straight microphone stand is the most basic.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an affordable microphone that can capture the true essence of your voice, then this is the microphone for you. Hooke Audio recommends this microphone because it is easy to use, comfortable to hold, and sounds great, and very natural when used in live music performances.
Even if you are not looking for a voice-only microphone, this is an excellent product for live sound and recording other instruments as well. Just make sure you get the best quality you can get for it.
Hope you enjoy the Shure sm58 review, and please leave a comment if you have any questions or concerns.
Last update on 2023-09-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
