The Best Cheap Microphone for Live Vocals: A Deep Dive into the Shure SM58
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
- Industry Standard: The Shure SM58 is widely recognized as the best budget microphone for live vocals, priced around $99.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of live performances, the SM58 is notably rugged.
- Exceptional Sound Clarity: Tailored frequency response enhances vocal clarity, making it ideal for various vocal styles.
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern: Minimizes background noise, perfect for live settings.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for singers, speakers, and podcasters alike.
- Setting the Scene: My Initial Thoughts on the SM58
- What’s All the Hype About?
- A/V Setup: How I Tested the SM58
- Digging Deeper: How the SM58 Holds Up Against Competing Budget Mics
- What Others Are Saying
- Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Shure SM58?
- FAQ
Setting the Scene: My Initial Thoughts on the SM58
Before diving into the technical jargons and specs, it’s worth sharing a little backstory. My first encounter with the SM58 was during an open mic night years ago. In that dimly lit bar, I handed over my trusty older mic, bit the bullet, and tried the Shure for the first time. I was blown away by how well it handled the various vocal styles around me — from gritty rock vocals to soft ballads.
After that night, I decided to get one for my own setup and began experimenting. Over the years, I’ve compared it against several other budget microphones, each trying to claim the crown of the best cheap mic for live vocals.
What’s All the Hype About?
Key Features of the Shure SM58
- Frequency Response Tailored for Vocals: The SM58 has a frequency response that’s specifically designed to enhance vocal clarity, with a bump in the midrange where much of the voice lives. You get that crispness without overemphasizing harshness, making it perfect for cutting through a dense mix of instruments.
- Durable Build: Let’s talk endurance. The SM58 is famously rugged. I’ve dropped it a few times (hey, it happens), and it still performs like a champ. Its sturdy construction is designed to handle the bumps of gigging life – you won’t need to worry about babying this mic.
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern: This is a game changer. The cardioid pattern focuses on the sound source directly in front while rejecting background noise, making it ideal for live settings where you want to minimize feedback from speakers.
- Affordability: At $99, it’s reasonably priced for the quality you get. In a world with overpriced gear, this mic stands tall as a budget-friendly choice without compromising professionalism.
A/V Setup: How I Tested the SM58
I plugged the SM58 into my portable audio interface and hooked it up to my home speakers for a more intimate test, moving on to a live gig setting where I paired it with a mixer. Here’s what happened:
- Sound Clarity: I ran through various vocal exercises — from belting powerful notes to soft whispers. The clarity was impressive. The high frequencies stayed clean while avoiding any muddiness. The SM58 managed to keep everything in balance.
- Comparing to Rivals: I had the chance to also test the Sennheiser e835 and the Electro Voice 767A side-by-side. While the Sennheiser offered a wider pickup pattern (ideal for presenters moving off-axis), I found it less focused than the SM58 when it came to rock vocals. In comparison, the Electro Voice delivered a brighter tone, but it felt fragile on stage while the SM58 handled roughness like a pro.
- Live Environment: During an open mic gig, the SM58’s ability to resist feedback while still delivering exceptional vocal quality was apparent. I could tell right away that my voice had a certain punch — something not all cheap mics can offer.
Digging Deeper: How the SM58 Holds Up Against Competing Budget Mics
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. The SM58’s greatest strengths are its durability and sound management, but how does it stack up against notable alternatives?
A Quick Look at Other Budget Mics
| Model | Type | Price | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shure SM58 | Dynamic | ~$99 | Nearly indestructible, feedback resistant, vocal clarity | Limited frequency output |
| Sennheiser e835 | Dynamic | ~$99 | Wide pickup, easy to use, clean sound | Not as common as SM58 |
| Electro Voice 767A | Dynamic | ~$99 | Bright, detailed sound | Less durable |
| Audio-Technica AT2020 | Condenser | ~$99 | Flat response, versatile for home use | Not rugged, feedback prone |
Analyzing the Alternatives
- Sennheiser e835: If you’re looking for a microphone that’s forgiving on vocal positioning, the e835 is a strong contender. However, during my live tests, it didn’t deliver the punch I got from the SM58.
- Electro Voice 767A: This mic shines with its vibrant sound but isn’t built to withstand the same abuse as the SM58. If you’re performing regularly, the durability factor of the SM58 tips the scales in its favor for me.
In my opinion, among dynamic microphones in this price range, the Shure SM58 not only excels in sound quality but also takes the prize for rugged reliability.
What Others Are Saying
Within various audio circles, the consensus around the SM58 is overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared stories of its performance excellence in live and studio settings, bolstering its reputation. Users appreciate its versatility, claiming it’s a reliable mic for not just singing, but also speaking at events.
The flexibility of use has also been noted — while some might pick it as their first live vocal mic, it often sticks around even when performers upgrade to higher-end options for studio recordings.
Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Shure SM58?
The Shure SM58 is the best cheap microphone for live vocals for a reason. If you’re a gigging musician, an aspiring podcaster, or simply someone who passionately sings at open mics, this mic provides more than just value; it gives you essential reliability and sound quality without breaking the bank.
However, if you’re strictly recording in a controlled studio environment and need detailed nuances in your sound, you might want to explore some condenser microphones that, while less durable, can capture every little detail of your performance.
Final Thoughts: Check the Latest Price
For most performers on a budget, the Shure SM58 remains the undisputed champion among live vocal microphones. You’re not just buying a mic; you’re investing in peace of mind.
If you’re on the fence about which microphone to purchase, give the SM58 a try — you won’t regret it.
For gear recommendations tailored just for you, make sure to check Geeksper’s recommended gear. Browse our recommendations here!