Best Shure Microphones for Vocals (SM58, SM57, or SM7b?)

Are you a singer looking for the perfect microphone to capture your voice? If so, then you may have heard of Shure microphones. But are Shure microphones good for singing?

Shure microphones such as the SM7b are renowned for their excellent sound clarity and wide frequency range, making them a great choice for singing in the studio. Shure microphones like the SM58 reduce handling noise and have outstanding durability, making them ideal for live performances.

(more on both below).

With their robust construction and reliable performance, Shure microphones are an excellent choice for singers. After all, there’s more to finding the right mic than just brand name recognition.

In this blog post, we’ll answer that question and explore why Shure SM mics might be ideal for singers! We’ll discuss their benefits, how to choose one that’s best suited to your needs, tips on getting great results with it, and common mistakes when using a Shure mic for singing.

Shure is a classic vocal mic, especially for those on a budget. Just keep reading for all the details.

Table of Contents:

Overview of Shure Microphones

Shure is a company that has been producing high-quality microphones since 1925.

The company was founded by Sidney N. Shure in Chicago, Illinois and quickly became known for its reliable products and innovative designs. Today, Shure continues to be one of the most trusted names in audio equipment, with their microphones being used in recording studios around the world.

History of Shure

Shure started out as a small radio parts business but soon began manufacturing components for phonographs and other sound reproduction devices.

In 1939, they released their first microphone – the Unidyne Model 55 – which revolutionized sound recording technology at the time.

This iconic mic was used on countless recordings throughout history including Frank Sinatra’s “Strangers in the Night” and Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel” among many others.

Since then, Shure has continued to develop new mics that have become industry standards such as SM58 vocal mic and SM57 instrument mic both of which are still widely used today by professional musicians all over the world.

Types of Shure Microphones

Today, there are several different types of microphones available from Shure including:

  • dynamic mics such as the SM58 or Beta 58A
  • condenser mics like the KSM44A or KSM32
  • ribbon mics such as the KSM313 or KSM353
  • USB/digital mics like the MOTIV MV5 or MV51

Wireless systems include the ULXD4Q Quad Receiver System and UHF-R Wireless Systems.

Headset/lavalier systems including the MX153 Earset Mic System and UR1M Bodypack Transmitter & Receiver Set.

Plus specialty applications like the PGA98H Clip-On Instrument Mic Kit and VP83F Shotgun Condenser Microphone with Integrated Flash Recorder.

There is a wide range of options depending on your specific needs and budget constraints.

The popularity of Shure Microphones

Shure microphones have long been favored by professionals due to their superior sound quality, durability, reliability, and versatility compared to other brands on the market today.

They are an ideal choice for any musician looking for top-notch performance without breaking the bank, as they can handle live performances or home studio recordings while delivering crystal clear results every time.

Shure microphones are well-known for their superior sound quality and reliability, making them a great choice for singers. In the next section, we will discuss the benefits of using a Shure microphone specifically for singing.

Key Takeaway: Shure microphones are a popular choice for professional musicians due to their superior sound quality, durability, reliability and versatility. Their wide range of options makes them suitable for any budget or application.

Benefits of Using a Shure Microphone for Singing

Shure microphones are some of the most popular and trusted mics for singing. They offer a range of features that make them ideal for capturing vocals, from their sound quality and clarity to their durability and reliability. Let’s take a look at why Shure is such an excellent choice for singers.

Sound Quality and Clarity:

Shure mics have long been known for their superior sound quality, providing clear recordings with plenty of detail in both the highs and lows. This makes them perfect for recording vocals, as they capture every nuance of your voice without sacrificing any audio fidelity or clarity.

Durability and Reliability:

In addition to offering great sound quality, Shure mics are also incredibly durable and reliable. Many models feature rugged construction that can withstand years of use without issue, making them ideal if you plan on using your mic regularly or taking it out on tour with you.

Versatility and Flexibility:

Finally, Shure mics come in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles, colors – even wireless options – so there’s sure to be one that fits your needs perfectly.

Whether you need something compact enough to fit into tight spaces or something more powerful that can handle loud performances without feedback issues; there’s a Shure mic out there just right for you.

When choosing a microphone for singing purposes, it is important to consider your voice type and range first before anything else.

This will help narrow down which model best suits your needs and budget accordingly, as different types may require different features and capabilities depending on what kind of vocal performance is being recorded or performed live.

Secondly, think about where the mic will be used (studio vs stage), as this too affects which type would work best; dynamic mics tend to work better outdoors while condenser ones are usually better suited indoors due to their sensitivity levels when picking up sounds and noises.

Lastly, understand the various types available from Shure such as handheld dynamic microphones (SM58), studio condensers (KSM44A), USB Mics (MV5C) etc., each designed specifically with certain applications in mind; so choose wisely based off these factors.

Using a Shure microphone for singing can give you superior sound quality, reliability, and versatility that will help your vocal performance shine. In the next section, we’ll look at how to choose the right Shure microphone for your needs.

Key Takeaway: Shure microphones are a great choice for singing, offering superior sound quality and clarity, durability and reliability, as well as versatility and flexibility. Consider your voice typerange, where the mic will be used (studio vs stage) and different types of mics when making your decision.

How to Choose the Right Shure Microphone for Singing

When it comes to choosing the right Shure microphone for singing, there are a few things you should consider. First, think about your voice type and range.

Do you have a low or high register? Are you looking for something that can handle both? Knowing this information will help narrow down your choices when selecting the best mic for your needs.

Next, think about your budget and needs.

Shure offers several different types of microphones ranging from entry-level models to professional-grade mics with higher price tags. Consider what features are important to you and how much money you’re willing to spend before making a purchase decision.

Finally, understand the different types of mics available from Shure.

The company makes dynamic microphones designed specifically for vocalists as well as condenser mics suitable for recording instruments like acoustic guitars or pianos in addition to vocals.

There are also USB mics that allow users to plug directly into their computer without needing an audio interface or mixer—a great option if space is limited or portability is desired.

No matter which type of mic you choose, make sure it fits within your budget and meets all of your requirements before making a purchase decision.

Choosing the right Shure microphone for singing is essential to capturing great-sounding vocals.

By understanding your voice type and range, budget, and needs as well as familiarizing yourself with the different types of mics available from Shure, you can ensure that you get a mic that best suits your vocal style. Now let’s look at some tips on how to get the best results when recording with a Shure mic.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with Your Shure Mic for Singing

When it comes to recording vocals, having the right microphone is essential.

Shure microphones are some of the most popular and reliable mics for singing, but getting the best results with them requires a bit of knowledge and preparation. Here are some tips for getting great sound when using a Shure mic for singing.

Position Yourself Properly in Front of the Mic:

It’s important to position yourself correctly in front of your Shure mic when you’re recording vocals.

Make sure that you’re standing at least 6 inches away from the mic so that your voice doesn’t get too loud or distorted by being too close. Also, make sure that you’re facing directly into the mic so that all frequencies can be picked up clearly without any muffling or distortion.

Adjust The Gain Settings on Your Mixer or Audio Interface:

To ensure optimal sound quality when using a Shure microphone for singing, it’s important to adjust your gain settings properly on your mixer or audio interface before recording begins.

You want to set these levels just high enough so that they don’t distort but low enough so that there isn’t any unwanted noise creeping into your recordings either. This will help give you clear and consistent vocal recordings every time.

Use Pop Filters or Windscreens:

Using pop filters or windscreens is another way to improve vocal recordings with a Shure microphone. These devices act as barriers between your mouth and the microphone itself which helps reduce plosives (hard consonants like “p”) and sibilance (harsh sounds like “s”).

They also help keep saliva off of the diaphragm which can cause damage over time if not taken care of properly.

These are just a few tips for getting great sound out of a Shure mic while recording vocals; following these guidelines should help ensure excellent results every time.

By following the tips outlined above, you can get the best possible results when using a Shure mic for singing. However, it’s important to also be aware of common mistakes that could affect your recording quality and result in subpar performances.

Key Takeaway: When using a Shure mic for singing, position yourself 6 inches away from the mic and facing directly into it. Adjust gain settings on your mixer or audio interface and use pop filters or windscreens to reduce plosives and sibilance. Following these guidelines should help ensure excellent results every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Shure Mic for Singing

Not paying attention to room acoustics is one of the most common mistakes when using a Shure mic for singing. Room acoustics play an important role in how your voice will sound, and if you’re not aware of the acoustic environment, it can have a negative effect on your recordings.

To get the best results from your Shure mic, make sure that you take time to assess the acoustics of any room before recording.

Look out for hard surfaces like walls and floors which can cause reflections and echoes that can muddy up or distort your vocals. If possible, use soft furnishings such as carpets or curtains to help reduce unwanted reverberation.

Not taking care of equipment properly is another mistake people often make when using a Shure mic for singing.

It’s important to remember that microphones are delicate pieces of equipment and should be handled with care at all times. Always store them in their cases when they’re not being used and never leave them exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity levels as this could damage them permanently over time.

Also avoid dropping them or banging them against hard surfaces as this could affect their performance too.

Finally, many people don’t test out different mics before making a purchase decision which can lead to disappointment later down the line if they find out that their chosen microphone isn’t suitable for their needs after all.

Before buying any type of microphone it is always worth testing out several models first so you know exactly what kind of sound quality each one produces – especially with regards to vocal recordings since everyone has different voices with varying tones and ranges.

Try visiting local music stores where you will be able to try various types of mics side by side until you find one that suits your requirements perfectly.

Key Takeaway: When using a Shure mic for singing, it’s important to consider the room acoustics, handle equipment with care and test out different models before making a purchase decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Shure microphone is best for singing live?

The Shure SM58 is widely considered to be the best microphone for singing.

It has a tailored vocal response that emphasizes clarity and minimizes background noise, making it perfect for live performances or studio recordings.

Its rugged construction ensures reliable performance in any environment, while its cardioid polar pattern reduces feedback and off-axis noise. The SM58 also features an integrated shock mount and pop filter to reduce plosives and wind noise, providing a clean sound every time.

With its combination of quality components, reliability, affordability, and versatility – the Shure SM58 is the go-to choice for singers everywhere.

CLICK HERE to see the current price of a Shure SM58 on Amazon.

How does the Shure SM58 sound?

The Shure SM58 is a classic microphone that has been used in the music industry for decades.

It is known for its warm, natural sound and its ability to capture a wide range of frequencies. The SM58 is a dynamic microphone, meaning it uses an internal coil and magnet to convert sound waves into electrical signals.

This type of microphone is ideal for live vocals because it can handle high sound pressure levels without distorting the signal.

The SM58 has a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound from the front and sides while rejecting sound from the rear. This makes it great for isolating vocals or instruments in a live setting. The frequency response of the SM58 ranges from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, which gives it a full-bodied sound with plenty of low-end punch and clarity in the highs.

The SM58 also has an internal pop filter that helps reduce plosives (hard consonants like “p” and “b”) when recording vocals. This helps keep your recordings clean and free from unwanted noise.

Additionally, the SM58 has an integrated shock mount that reduces handling noise when moving or adjusting the microphone during recording sessions.

Overall, the Shure SM58 is an excellent choice for live performances or lower-budget recording sessions due to its warm, natural sound and ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

Its cardioid polar pattern helps isolate vocals or instruments while its internal pop filter reduces plosives and its integrated shock mount reduces handling noise. With its wide frequency response range, you can be sure that your recordings will have plenty of low-end punch and clarity in the highs.

What mic is the best microphone for singing in the studio?

The best microphone for singing depends on the individual’s vocal range, budget, and desired sound quality.

For recording studio sound engineers looking for a professional-grade mic that can handle high volumes without distortion or feedback, the Shure SM7B is an excellent choice. It is quickly becoming an industry standard.

It offers a wide frequency response and flat response curve to capture every nuance of your voice.

CLICK HERE to see the current price of a Shure SM7b on Amazon.

Ultimately studio microphones don’t have to be able to take a beating like live performance mics. So they sacrifice durability for high-quality sound, high sensitivity, and the best sound available.

Vocal recoding is a different animal than live performance. So except for the smallest budgets, it doesn’t make sense to use one mic for everything.

If you’re looking for something more affordable but still reliable, the Audio-Technica AT2035 is also a great option. It has a smooth frequency response and produces clear recordings with minimal background noise.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference; try out different mics until you find one that works best for your needs.

How does the Shure SM7b sound?

The Shure SM7b is a dynamic microphone that has become a staple in the recording industry.

It is known for its warm, smooth sound and its ability to capture a wide range of frequencies. It is often used for vocals, but can also be used for instruments such as guitar and bass.

The SM7b has a frequency response of 50 Hz to 20 kHz, which means it can capture both low and high frequencies. This makes it great for capturing the nuances of a vocal performance or instrument. The microphone also has an internal built-in pop filter which helps reduce plosives and sibilance when recording vocals.

The SM7b has a cardioid polar pattern, meaning it picks up sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and back.

This helps to reduce background ambient noise and focus on the source being recorded. The microphone also has an internal shock mount which helps reduce handling noise when moving or adjusting the mic during recording sessions.

The SM7b is known for its warm, smooth sound that adds depth to any studio recording without sounding too harsh or bright. It is often used in combination with other microphones to create a fuller sound with more clarity and detail.

The SM7b also works well with compression, allowing you to add more presence to your recordings without making them too loud or distorted.

Overall, the Shure SM7b is an excellent choice for recording vocals or instruments due to its warm, smooth sound and ability to capture a wide range of frequencies.

Its internal pop filter and shock mount help reduce background noise while its cardioid polar pattern focuses on the source being recorded. With its versatility and quality sound, it’s no wonder why the Shure SM7b is one of the most popular microphones in the recording industry today!

Are Shure microphones good?

Yes, Shure microphones are good. They have been a trusted name in the music industry for decades and offer high-quality products that provide clear sound capture.

Their mics come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different recording needs, from studio recordings to live performances. Additionally, they are known for their durability and reliability, making them an ideal choice for both professional musicians and home recording enthusiasts alike.

What’s the difference between condenser and dynamic mics?

The difference between condenser and dynamic microphones is an important one to understand when it comes to recording audio. Both types of mics have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know which one is best suited for your particular application.

Condenser microphones are generally more sensitive than dynamic mics, meaning they can pick up a wider range of frequencies.

This makes them ideal for capturing subtle nuances in sound, such as the nuances of a vocal performance or the details of an acoustic guitar.

They also tend to have a higher signal-to-noise ratio, meaning they produce less background noise than dynamic mics. However, condenser mics require phantom power in order to operate, which can be an issue if you’re using a mixer that doesn’t provide this power source.

Dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser mics and therefore don’t pick up as wide a range of frequencies.

This makes them better suited for capturing louder sounds such as drums or electric guitars. They also don’t require phantom power and are generally more rugged and durable than condenser mics, making them better suited for live performances or other applications where the mic may be subject to rough handling or extreme temperatures.

In conclusion, both condenser and dynamic microphones have their own unique advantages and disadvantages that make them better suited for different applications.

It’s important to understand the differences between the two types of mics in order to make sure you choose the right one for your particular needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shure microphones are a great choice for singing and can provide excellent sound quality.

With the right microphone selection and proper use, you can get the best results from your Shure mic when singing. Whether you’re recording in a professional studio or just at home, using a Shure microphone will help ensure that your vocal performance sounds its best.

So if you’re asking yourself “are Shure microphones good for singing?” then the answer is yes!

We have the best resources, from expert advice and reviews on equipment to fun music trivia and history. Plus, we offer detailed musical instruction so you can hone your skills in no time.


Image by Pexels from Pixabay

As an Amazon Associate I may earn a small comission from qualifying purchases if you click to Amazon from my site and choose to make a purchase. You can read my complete affiliate disclosure for more details.

Top Related Posts