Shure SM58

The Shure SM58 microphone

The Shure SM58 is a professional cardioid dynamic microphone, commonly used in live vocal applications. Produced since 1966 by Shure Incorporated, it has built a strong reputation among musicians for its durability and sound, and half a century later it is still considered the industry standard for live vocal performance microphones.[1][2][3] The SM58 and its sibling, the Shure SM57, are the best-selling microphones in the world.[4] The SM stands for Studio Microphone.[5]

Like all directional microphones, the SM58 is subject to proximity effect, a low frequency boost when used close to the source. The cardioid response reduces pickup from the side and rear, helping to avoid feedback onstage. There are wired (with and without on/off switch) and wireless versions. The wired version provides balanced audio through a male XLR connector. The SM58 uses an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise.

A distinctive feature of the SM58 is the pneumatic suspension system for the microphone capsule.[6] The capsule, a readily replaceable component, is surrounded by a soft rubber balloon, rather than springs or solid rubber. This gives notably good isolation from handling noise, making it a popular microphone for stage vocalists. It is a key feature of Shure's high-end microphones intended for hand-held stage use, rather than stand or instrument miking.

The SM58 is unswitched, while the otherwise identical SM58S model has an on-off switch on the body. Other variants refer to the accessory kits supplied with the microphone: -LC models are without a cable, -E models include a 5/8" screw thread adapter for the stand mounting clip.

Specifications

Robert Lockwood, Jr using an SM58
Type
Dynamic[7] (moving coil)
Frequency Response
50 to 15,000 Hz[7]
Polar Pattern
Cardioid,[7] rotationally symmetrical about microphone axis, uniform with frequency
Sensitivity (at 1,000 Hz Open Circuit Voltage)
−54.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV); 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL[7]
Impedance
Rated impedance is 150 ohms (300 ohms actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low impedance[7]
Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3[7]
Connector
Three-pin male XLR[7]
Net Weight
298 grams (10.5 oz)[7]

Awards

Counterfeiting

The SM58, and other Shure microphones, have been extensively counterfeited.[10][11][12][13][14][15] Most of these counterfeit microphones are at least functional, but have poorer performance and do not have the pneumatic suspension. There are many other subtle details which can reveal most of these fakes.[16][17]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Live Sound International, September/October 2002. Real World: Wired Vocal Microphones
  2. ↑ Miller, Peter L. (2001). Speaking Skills for Every Occasion. Blake's Guides. Pascal Press. p. 30. ISBN 1741250463.
  3. ↑ Morris, Tee; Tomasi, Chuck; Terra, Evo (2008). Podcasting For Dummies (2 ed.). John Wiley & Sons. p. 36. ISBN 047027557X.
  4. ↑ Paul Stamler, Shure SM57 Impedance Modification, Recording Magazine, retrieved 2014-04-20
  5. ↑ History of Shure Incorporated
  6. ↑ Goodwyn, Peterson. "Shure’s Secret, Invisible Shockmount". Recording Hacks. Retrieved 1 November 2013.
  7. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Product Specifications (PDF), Shure, retrieved 2012-10-06
  8. ↑ http://www.shure.com/americas/about-shure/history/index.htm
  9. ↑ Gerken, Teja. "Acoustic Guitar Player's Choice Awards 2011 - Shure SM58". Acoustic Guitar. String Letter Publishing. Retrieved August 19, 2012.
  10. ↑ "Sennheiser, Shure Team Up For Counterfeit Raid", December 21, 2001, MIX
  11. ↑ "Counterfeit Shure Microphones Destroyed", October 9, 2002, MIX
  12. ↑ "Thai-based counterfeit ring smashed", February 1, 2006, Music Trades. "Among the products in this shipment was a large quantity of counterfeit SM58 microphones destined for retail outlets around Thailand."
  13. ↑ "Auction websites' threat to legitimate brands", January 1, 2007, Pro Sound News Europe. "The SM57, SM58, Beta 57 and Beta 58 are among the fixities proving most attractive to counterfeiters."
  14. ↑ ""Shure Seizes Counterfeit Microphones in China", November 14, 2007, MIX
  15. ↑ "Counterfeit Shure Gear Seized: Thousands of counterfeit microphones were recently confiscated in Peru and Paraguay by customs officials", February 2, 2012, Broadcasting & Cable
  16. ↑ "Spotting a Fake Shure Microphone: How to tell if your mic is genuine -- or not". About.com Home Recording
  17. ↑ "5 Tips on Spotting a Fake Shure SM58"
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