Review of the Shure SM58 Microphone for Live Vocals

Best Budget Microphone for Live Vocals: The Shure SM58 Review

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

  • The Shure SM58 is a durable and affordable microphone for live vocals.
  • Effective background noise rejection helps vocals stand out.
  • Its bright midrange may require EQ adjustments for some singers.
  • Requires a strong preamp to perform at its best.
  • Suitable for various genres, particularly rock and pop.

Table of Contents

What is the SM58?

The Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone that comes with a cardioid polar pattern, ideal for isolating your vocal sound while reducing bleed from background noises. With a frequency response of 40 Hz to 15 kHz, it’s designed to give vocals the power they need to stand out in any performance situation. Retailing at around $99, it’s an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality.

First Impressions

As soon as I pulled the SM58 out of its box, I was struck by its sturdy build. This mic is built like a tank; it can take a beating. Having seen more than a few drops from inexperienced hands during gigs, I nostalgically remembered my first performance with a less durable mic that met its end on the stage floor.

Plugging it in was a breeze. I paired it with my portable mixer, which has a robust preamp, and that’s where I started my first test. I made sure to utilize different vocal techniques — from soft singing to belting out higher notes — to get a sense of the mic’s versatility.

Performance in Different Settings

Live Gig Scenario

My first real-world test was at a local music venue that often has chaotic sound levels due to its lively crowd. The first thing I noticed was the effective background noise rejection. I had set up near the bar, and while the clinks of glasses and chatter from the patrons didn’t disappear completely, they minimized thanks to the mic’s cardioid pattern. This made my vocals distinctively clear, a marked improvement from my old dynamic mic, which often struggled in such noisy environments.

One challenge I faced was the inherent brightness of the SM58; it can be very present in the midrange and might overwhelm some vocal tones, especially if you have a naturally bright voice. However, this can also be a boon, as it helps vocals cut through a dense mix. The onboard pneumatic shock mount did an admirable job at minimizing handling noise, making it feel comfortable to hold while performing high-energy songs.

Home Studio Setup

Next, I took the SM58 home to test it out in a more controlled environment. Running through various vocal exercises, I noticed how well it handled dynamic range. When I pushed my voice to the limits, the low-end roll-off kept it from sounding muddy. For the price, the clarity was truly a surprise — particularly on midrange-heavy notes.

The only downside here was that, without a powerful preamp, it could sound a bit thin. Given its ruggedness, you’ll often find it in live settings where such issues are mitigated by sound systems designed for dynamic microphones.

In a home studio context, if you pair it with a higher-end preamp, it shines even brighter.

Comparison with Alternatives

While the SM58 often steals the spotlight, it’s essential to consider other options that might suit different voices or performance styles. For example, the Sennheiser e835, retailing for around $100-$120, has a wider cardioid pattern, making it a forgiving choice for singers who move around on stage. I had a chance to test the e835 as well, and its clarity on vocals surprised me, especially at higher pitches.

On the other end, if you prefer a microphone that excels in the highs, the Electro-Voice 767A, priced similarly, delivered a brightness that might appeal to rock or pop vocalists. However, it would require a bit more attention during setup to prevent feedback on louder stages.

Detailed Insights from My Testing

  • Durability: The SM58 is truly a workhorse. It has survived drops in bars, been jostled in my gear bag, and has come out without so much as a dent.
  • Sound Quality: It featured a bright midrange that helped my vocals to pop, but careful EQ adjustments were necessary to avoid harshness, especially with powerful singers.
  • Handling Noise: Impressive shock absorption! I tend to move around a lot while performing, and it never picked up too much of my handling noise.
  • Pricing: At about $99, its price point makes it accessible for beginners and professionals alike. You won’t find many mics at this level of quality for less.
  • Requires Strong Preamp: It does need a decent preamp to really shine. In setups lacking in quality, it can feel less powerful.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Proven stage durability
  • Clear and vocal-friendly sound profile
  • Great background noise rejection
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • Can sound too bright for some vocal styles
  • Requires a decent preamp for optimal performance
  • Limited low-end response might not suit bass-heavy vocals

Who Should Buy It?

If you’re starting your live performance journey, or if you frequently gig and need a dependable mic that can take a few knocks, the Shure SM58 is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for rock, pop, and most genres where vocal presence is crucial.

However, if you’re primarily looking to capture studio-quality vocals or have a very low vocal range, you might want to explore options like the AKG P120 condenser mic for more detail and warmth in a quieter environment, though keep in mind that it’s more prone to feedback in live settings.

Conclusion

In my exhaustive testing with the Shure SM58, it has proven itself not just as a cheap option but as a truly reliable and high-performing microphone for live vocals. It may not be the perfect mic for every vocalist, but its ruggedness, clear sound, and affordability make it one of the best budget microphones for live performances.

If you’re seeking a dependable microphone that you can trust to perform night after night without worrying about damage, the Shure SM58 could be the answer you’ve been searching for.

So, what are you waiting for? Check the latest price here and give your vocals the lift they deserve. And don’t forget to check out Geeksper’s recommended gear — we’ve got the best in audio equipment that can elevate your sound game!

FAQ

What type of microphone is the Shure SM58?

The Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, suitable for live vocals.

How much does the Shure SM58 cost?

The SM58 typically retails at around $99.

Is the SM58 good for home studios?

Yes, but it performs best with a strong preamp. It can sound thin without one.

Can the SM58 handle loud environments?

Absolutely. Its cardioid pattern effectively reduces background noise, making it suitable for loud venues.

Who is the SM58 best suited for?

It’s ideal for beginners and gigging musicians, especially in genres like rock and pop where vocal presence is key.