Shure Microphones: Time-Tested, Road-Tested & Drop-Tested

Shure Microphones Buying Guide: Checkout the range of products this brand has to offer.

Introduction

When it comes to microphones, Shure is one brand that almost everyone uses. If you are new to music recording, chances are that your first mic is going to be a “Shure”.

Even if you’re new to recording, its not difficult to see that Shure is one of the more popular brands out there for microphones. Be it for Performance, Recording, or for Broadcast applications, Shure has a mic built for the job.

Shure microphones are preferred by beginners and professionals alike, because of their top sound quality and reliability. Shure’s SM microphones are time-tested, road-tested, and even drop-tested.

Range of products from Shure.

Shure Microphones
These are the time-tested, popular, world class Shure SM microphones. Want premium quality studio mics, take a look at the KSM series.

Shure MOTIV (Digital Microphones & Recording Solutions)
These are portable, plug-and-play mics (keeping the sound quality intact) that feature intuitive controls, smart technology, and has that classic, retro design.
Use it for recording music, podcasts, videos and stories.

Shure Wireless Microphones
Shure wireless microphones (ULX-D mics) go beyond UHF and VHF to deliver clear, accurate audio digitally. These come with rechargeable batteries and advanced encryption.

Best Shure Microphones

Shure SM58 Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone

The review of Shure SM58 Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone is famous for its warmth, clarity and durability, and has been a favorite for musicians worldwide for a long time now. It gives an edge to your music that separates the professionals from the hobbyists.

There’s hardly any competition to this one. Famous for its warmth, clarity and durability, the SM58 mic is a favorite for musicians worldwide. Its tailored, brightened mid-range response gives your vocals an extra boost, helping it cut through the mix. Get the legendary live sound of the Shure SM58 microphone.

• PROS: Clear sound, one of the sturdiest mics that you can find, good audio, easy to use, compact, good for bands and for performing, for studio work you will need good preamps, for the price it works great,
• CONS: Works best with vocals
• Best Uses: Lives Performances, Home studio, Outdoor events / games

Although this is a great mic, what you should bear in mind is that one should buy microphones as per their recording needs (in case you’re looking for a mic for recording purposes). Professionals use mics that are worth at least a few hundred dollars for studio voice recordings. Something that is worth around a hundred bucks may not be best suited for professionals. Having said that, for the price, this is a great mic. If you speak into it straight (and just about the right way), it should serve you well.

Specs & features of Shure SM58:

• Built-in spherical filter that helps minimize “pop” sounds
• Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern helps minimize feedback
• Cuts down on ambient noise, even floor vibrations stay out (when the Shure SM58 is mounted on a stand)
• Legendary Shure build quality
• Connector: 3-pin professional audio connector (male XLR type)
• Dimensions: 51 x 162 x 23mm (2 x 6-3/8 x 29/32 in.)

The Shure SM58 is a highly versatile cardioid dynamic vocal microphone and is usually the first choice of vocal performers around the globe. Built like a tank, the Shure SM58 mic is ergonomically designed, and is world-renowned for its lively sound; it cuts through instruments and positions the singer right out in front.

Buying Links

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Now you can get the legendary live sound of the Shure SM58 microphone for just around 100 dollars.

Shure SM57 Dynamic Microphone

Shure SM57 Dynamic Microphone: Time tested favorite for recording drums, guitar amps, and more — on stage or in the studio.

• Pros: Proven (legendary), inexpensive Studio Mic. All-rounder mic, great for drums
• Cons: Its not the “best” mic for vocals or for delicate acoustic instruments

The SM57 is one of the most universal (generic) mics in the world. Every studio has this mic (not just one, but many). Its because they not only sound good, they can record just about anything. Is great for recording loud sounding instruments (especially drums), guitars, brass, etc.

It will record vocals, drums (particularly!), guitar cabs, bass cabs, acoustic guitars, brass, and stuff that is really loud. While no one will claim it is the “best” mic for vocals or for delicate acoustic instruments, it will work, and with great predictability as to the sonic outcome.

If you are setting up your home studio and are short on cash, you should get the Shure SM57.

Watch: Shure SM57 Dynamic Microphone Demo / Video Review

Specs & Features of Shure SM57:

• Audio – Analog Mic. Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz. Max SPL: 149 dB. Connectivity: XLR
• Pattern and type – Type: Handheld. Capsule: Dynamic. Polar pattern: Cardioid. Switches: None. Phantom power required: No
• Size and weight – Diameter: 1.25 in. Length: 5.38 in. Weight: .6 lb.
• Included accessories – Case: Yes. Clip: Yes. Shockmount: No. Power supply: N/A. Cable: No. Stand: No
• Cardioid pickup pattern for maximum gain, excellent rejection of off-axis (other) sound
• Best for recording guitars, drums and vocals
• Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
• Grille with stainless steel screen resist wear and abuse
• Zippered storage bag and break-resistant mic clip
• Ruggedly built

The SM57 is a handheld dynamic mic that faithfully capturing audio from any source (instrumental and even vocal). Of the several mics that your recording studio will own, one need to be the Shure SM57. It’s a fantastic mic that offers the best value for money. If you could only choose one mic, this should be the one.

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For around hundred bucks, the SM57 is one of the best musical equipment that you will purchase.

Difference Between SM57 and SM58

Internally, Shure SM57 and SM58 are identical mics.

However, the SM58 has the “round ball” on top and an internal windscreen. The ball forces you to be away from the mic’s diaphragm, so the proximity effect is lessened. And the windscreen dampens the hi frequency response as it cuts wind noise. So the vocals sound better.

The SM57, with its shorter grille design, allows you to get closer to the source and therefore has a greater proximity effect and is more susceptible to wind noise.

That is why vocalists (on stage) prefer the sm58, while those in the studio could use an sm57 with a pop filter in front of it.

Both the SM’57 and SM’58 work well with spoken words.

Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone

Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone: Great sounding microphone that you can used for video recordings on iPhone and to record demo voice overs. Just plug the MV88 mic into your iOS device, place the mic towards your source, and you’re ready to record clean, clear stereo sound.

• Pros: Perfect for above-standard audio quality for your iOS smart devices. Useful app, good one-stop shop for your recording needs.
• Cons: Cannot rotate capsule
• Best Uses: Recording at home. Video recordings on iPhone. Record demo voice overs, and more.

Shure MV88’s flexible design makes it easy to record videos at any position; you can now record anything without any worry of interference. It easily connects to your Apple iPhone, iPod or iPad.

Not only is the MV88 a great microphone for recording, it has several features as well, such as built-in DSP preset modes (which give you more options for quality recording). This microphone is your answer to high quality performance in any environment, be it a concert, a live studio recording or a lecture, you can easily record great quality sounds with the Shure MV88.

Watch: Shure MV88 Stereo Condenser Microphone Demo video Review

Users are really impressed with the capabilities of this microphone, some of them have also mentioned that the Airplane mode needs to be on, in order for the interface and microphone to work correctly. Most users were impressed with the motiv app (the various presets) and the flexibility that it provides; people are using this mic to record concerts, lectures, and more, and not just for recording music.

Specs & features of Shure MV88:

• Can be connected with all Apple devices with a lightning connector
• 5 available DSP preset modes – speech, singing, flat, acoustic, instrument, loud.
• Designed for use with all MOTIV products
• Flexible rotating positions for video applications
• Designed to capture clear high quality sound
• Compact, stylish and solid design
• Adjusts EQ automatically, compression and limiting
• Several rotating angles possible
• Get free Shure Plus MOTIV recording app feature
• Can withstand any recording conditions thanks to its all- metal construction

The Shure MV88 can be used in various recording situations – be it recording at home, bands at rehearsals, or for podcasts. It works well with Apple music software, such as GarageBand as well. Unfortunately, it is only iOS specific.

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Shure MOTIV MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone

Shure MOTIV MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone reviewed here. The Shure MV5 microphone provides high-quality plug-and-play audio capture with any iOS, Android, Mac and PC device.

If you have any Apple product like Mac, iPhone, iPad or any android devices and are looking for a good quality mic, then MV5 Digital condenser microphone is apt for you. It is a high quality mic that captures audio for all your apple and android devices. Especially if you are a regular on video chats, podcasting or recording music, you must know the importance of a good quality microphone.

Known for its high standards in quality, Shure maintains the same quality in all its products including the MV5 microphone.

Specs & features of Shure MOTIV MV5::

• Made for Apple products such as iPod, iPhone, iPad etc.
• Can also connect to any ios device without any connection kits or adapters.
• Has 3 DSP preset modes (Vocals, Flat, Instrumental)
• Has built-in headphone output, apt for real time monitoring
• Best audio thanks to the custom tuned microphone capsule
• Available in 2 colors – black with red foam and gray with black foam
• Portable design with 2.5 inches/7cm tall measurements
• Pack includes 1 micro-usb cable and MicroB-to-Lightning cable
• Applies gain , EQ, compression automatically
• Portable, can place it as a stand on the desk or detach it

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Shure Microphone Accessories

Popular mic accessories for your Shure microphones. These include windscreens, cables, clips, and other Shure accessories.

Recommended Shure Microphones

Shure SM58 Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone

The SM58 mic is a favorite for musicians worldwide. Its tailored, brightened mid-range response gives your vocals an extra boost, helping it cut through the mix. Known worldwide for its durability and clarity, the SM58 is the must-have handheld dynamic vocal mic. Read more…

Shure SM7B Dynamic Cardioid Studio Vocal Microphone

Want to raise the bar? The SM7B dynamic cardoid microphone allows you to capture studio-quality vocals. Its one of the favorite microphones for hip-hop music producers. The SM7B dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response (handles SPLs up to 180 dB.), which makes it appropriate for for music and speech, in all kinds of professional audio applications.

Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone: Great all-purpose mic
Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone: Great for Handheld Vocal Applications
Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone: Use it for music, podcasting or video chats.
Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone: Use it for music, VO, concerts, rcordings or demos.

More Buying Links

1. Shure Mics on zZounds

Shure Motiv Microphones

Shure is a trusted brand when it comes to recording microphones, and now they have released a new collection of portable plug-and-play digital microphones, under the MOTIV series.

And you get the easy plug-and-play feature without having to sacrifice on the sound quality. The Shure MOTIV digital microphones come with intuitive controls, smart technology and retro design.

You may use these mics to record your music, podcasts, or videos that require top class sound quality.

Shure Motiv Digital Microphones

The collection consists of three microphones, a digital audio interface and a mobile recording app.

Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone
TheMV88 is designed to capture clear, high quality stereo sound on the go, connects directly to any iOS device equipped with a Lightning connector.

Shure MV51 Digital Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone + USB & Lightning Cable
The MV51 is a complete recording solution that features a striking vintage design and an integrated kickstand that is compatible with any standard mic stand. A unique touch panel allows for quick access to gain, mute and headphone monitoring volume adjustments.

Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone (Gray) + USB & Lightning Cable
The MV5 is ideal for music, podcasting and video chats and features three onboard DSP presets that provide optimal settings for any sound source.

Shure Microphones: Buying Guide

Though know for the versatile mics, this company manufactures several consumer as well as professional audio-electronics products such as wireless microphone systems, phonograph cartridges, mixers, and digital signal processing.

Their range of products include several premium mics – both wired and wireless, listening gear, and other audio products.

They also have a good range of listening products used by several musicians, such as headphones, high-end ear-buds, in-ear monitoring systems, sound isolating earphones, and personal monitor systems.

About Shure Mics
Founded in 1925, Shure started as a supplier of radio kits, but today is one of the leading manufacturers of microphones (and audio electronics) in the world and continues to set the industry standard, at least in the case of superior microphones.

Shure is one of the leading brands of sound-related equipment and make some of the most popular microphones, cutting-edge wireless systems and premium headphones. They’re the leading manufacturer of microphones for live, touring and studio applications.

Shure makes a wide range of wired as well as wireless mics, suitable for home based computer recording and also used in professional studio recording.

• They have several renowned mics used for recording vocals and other acoustic musical instruments.
• Quality microphones for live, touring and studio applications.
• Be it for performance, recording, or for broadcast applications, you’ll find an offering from this brand.

Shure’s microphones are the world standard, when it comes to recording, and includes several time-tested, road-tested, and drop-tested mics.

Various series of Shure Mics
The various series of mics from Shure include: PG, SM, BETA, KSM, Classic, Microflex

How to Clean Shure Microphones