Shure SM58 - built to last

Undoubtedly, the Shure SM58 is the most used and most seen microphone in the world making it the industry standard. From humongous live concerts, to small bars, project studios and professional recording releases, the SM58 is a prime contender if not King. I don't know any musician who hasn't encountered this microphone. It is preferred by majority of live sound and studio engineers and artists as well. It's reputation is legendary and aside from that, it is almost indestructible!

Average price is also very cheap at US$100. Over the years, the SM 58s we've used had gone through rigorous abuse such as dropping from the stage 10 feet below, mic stands falling and hitting walls, deliberate throwing by vocalists and more. But still, it works without no change in the sound quality output. The only part that get's damaged most times is the pop shield which could be easily replaced and very cheap as well.

The Shure SM58 is a dynamic mic with low output and a presence peak in the upper mid range frequencies making it best for vocals. Its frequency response is rated at 50Hz to 15kHz with a polar pattern uni-directional cardiod pick-up. It is also equipped with a pneumatic shock-mount system which cuts down noise when handling.

My musical career spans more than twenty years and in my experience, a Shure SM58 is a must-have. For live and recording, I've used it for vocals, guitar and bass mic-in, ambience, cymbals, snare and even for the kick. For those occasions, it did not just serve its purpose but it actually did quite well even in areas it was not  supposed to be used for. Since this mic has been so widely used, the sound it delivers is very recognizable which made it a music industry standard.

Technically, the Shure SM58 is very good with the mid-ranges and the bass is boosted as the singer's lips is nearer the pop shield, but the highs roll off to quickly. Some find this feature a disadvantage while others favorable because it lowers the risk for feedbacks during live performances but some singers look for that high sibilance. But then there are always EQs and compressors to compensate or complement these technical requirements.

As a live and studio musician, I don't think I can live without having the Shure SM58 in my arsenal.


***A Gizmo Guerilla Music Gear Review