SM58
Encyclopedia
The Shure SM58 is a professional cardioid dynamic microphone
, commonly used in live vocal applications. Produced since 1966 by Shure Incorporated, it has built an enviable reputation among musicians for its robust construction and technical performance, and is considered the industry standard for live performance microphones. The SM58 is one of the best-selling microphones in the world. The SM stands for Studio Microphone.
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. It uses the balanced
XLR
three-pin connection. There are wired (with and without on/off switch) and wireless
versions. The microphone has a frequency response extending from 50 Hz to 15 kHz. The SM58 uses an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise.
Dynamic (moving coil)
Frequency Response
50 to 15,000 Hz
Polar Pattern
Cardoid (unidirectional), 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
Impedance
Rated impedance is 150 ohms (300 ohms actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low impedance
Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
Connector
Three-pin professional audio connector (male XLR type)
Net Weight
298 grams (10.5 oz)
Microphone
A microphone is an acoustic-to-electric transducer or sensor that converts sound into an electrical signal. In 1877, Emile Berliner invented the first microphone used as a telephone voice transmitter...
, commonly used in live vocal applications. Produced since 1966 by Shure Incorporated, it has built an enviable reputation among musicians for its robust construction and technical performance, and is considered the industry standard for live performance microphones. The SM58 is one of the best-selling microphones in the world. The SM stands for Studio Microphone.
Like all directional microphones, the SM58 is subject to proximity effect
Proximity effect (audio)
The proximity effect in audio is an increase in bass or low frequency response when a sound source is close to a microphone.-Technical explanation:...
, 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. It uses the balanced
Balanced audio
Balanced audio is a method of interconnecting audio equipment using impedance-balanced lines. This type of connection is very important in sound recording and production because it allows for the use of long cables while reducing susceptibility to external noise.Balanced connections use...
XLR
XLR connector
The XLR connector is a style of electrical connector, primarily found on professional audio, video, and stage lighting equipment. The connectors are circular in design and have between 3 and 7 pins...
three-pin connection. There are wired (with and without on/off switch) and wireless
Wireless microphone
A wireless microphone, as the name implies, is a microphone without a physical cable connecting it directly to the sound recording or amplifying equipment with which it is associated...
versions. The microphone has a frequency response extending from 50 Hz to 15 kHz. The SM58 uses an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise.
Specifications
TypeDynamic (moving coil)
Frequency Response
50 to 15,000 Hz
Polar Pattern
Cardoid (unidirectional), 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
Impedance
Rated impedance is 150 ohms (300 ohms actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low impedance
Polarity
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
Connector
Three-pin professional audio connector (male XLR type)
Net Weight
298 grams (10.5 oz)