A
THE classic workhorse!
The SM57 by Shure is a classic live and studio workhorse microphone - no wonder pretty much every studio I've stepped in has had at least four or five of these!
It's a cardioid pattern mic with very strong off-axis rejection, a presence boost around 4 kHz, and a good-roll off in the lower frequencies which makes up for the proximity effect. Like its slightly younger brother the SM58, the 57 is almost indestructible, and almost every part is replaceable in case you do find a way to destroy something. If you find a Shure Unidyne, then this is an older model of essentially the same microphone.
The mic itself is very weighty and feels strong and robust, extremely well constructed. No lead but you get mic clip and carry pouch in the box!
This is a microphone which is suitable for all jobs. As mentioned in other reviews, it is widely used for drum kits and guitar amps etc., but as it was actually first designed for classical instruments, it can be used very effectively for acoustic instruments as well (tested on a harp and electro-acoustic guitars).
The sound of the SM57 up against an amplifier cabinet, such as a Marshall 4x12 or a Fender Bassman, is part of the classic sound of rock, and advanced modelling systems like the Roland VG-99 emulate a 57 up against a cabinet and at various distances, both on and off axis.
People often compare it to its brother the SM58 - but at least in my opinion the 57 has that bit more class when recording a multitude of sounds and I always prefer using it.
All in all, it's no wonder the SM57 is considered the industry standard workhorse microphone - can't go wrong with buying one (or two... or three ;) )! I've used 57s for longer than I care to admit, in various situations (both in the studio and live) and I've never been let down by one so I always highly recommend them!
It's a cardioid pattern mic with very strong off-axis rejection, a presence boost around 4 kHz, and a good-roll off in the lower frequencies which makes up for the proximity effect. Like its slightly younger brother the SM58, the 57 is almost indestructible, and almost every part is replaceable in case you do find a way to destroy something. If you find a Shure Unidyne, then this is an older model of essentially the same microphone.
The mic itself is very weighty and feels strong and robust, extremely well constructed. No lead but you get mic clip and carry pouch in the box!
This is a microphone which is suitable for all jobs. As mentioned in other reviews, it is widely used for drum kits and guitar amps etc., but as it was actually first designed for classical instruments, it can be used very effectively for acoustic instruments as well (tested on a harp and electro-acoustic guitars).
The sound of the SM57 up against an amplifier cabinet, such as a Marshall 4x12 or a Fender Bassman, is part of the classic sound of rock, and advanced modelling systems like the Roland VG-99 emulate a 57 up against a cabinet and at various distances, both on and off axis.
People often compare it to its brother the SM58 - but at least in my opinion the 57 has that bit more class when recording a multitude of sounds and I always prefer using it.
All in all, it's no wonder the SM57 is considered the industry standard workhorse microphone - can't go wrong with buying one (or two... or three ;) )! I've used 57s for longer than I care to admit, in various situations (both in the studio and live) and I've never been let down by one so I always highly recommend them!
11
0
Report
m
Built like a tank!
Bought this as my first ever "real" microphone for recording vocals and guitars.
The whole body is made of metal and has a hefty weight to it. It really feels solid and I even dropped it once already. It was like nothing happened. This thing should last a really long time.
As for the sound, I am using a Behringer UMC202HD and to get decent volume I need to have around 70% gain on it. Again, this is my first every dynamic microphone so I do not really have anything to compare it with though based off the reviews I have watched this seems to be pretty standard with this mic. Sound was clear and was accurate to my ears.
For around $100 I think this is the best dynamic mic that you can buy. It is a great all-arounder. Would highly recommend!
The whole body is made of metal and has a hefty weight to it. It really feels solid and I even dropped it once already. It was like nothing happened. This thing should last a really long time.
As for the sound, I am using a Behringer UMC202HD and to get decent volume I need to have around 70% gain on it. Again, this is my first every dynamic microphone so I do not really have anything to compare it with though based off the reviews I have watched this seems to be pretty standard with this mic. Sound was clear and was accurate to my ears.
For around $100 I think this is the best dynamic mic that you can buy. It is a great all-arounder. Would highly recommend!
2
0
Report
r
Simply the best
I have 2 and I will definitely buy more in the future.
It's true what everybody says about SM57. This mic is a legend. I don't know if I can say anything bad about it, because it reproduce the sound perfectly. It has a clear and warm sound.
I've used it for guitar amp, bass amp, vocals, acoustic guitar and drums, and so far I was very pleased of the output. From my point of view, this is more suitable for live applications, since it doesn't enter in feedback so easily, and in studio I will be using it for guitar / bass amps and toms; otherwise I would go with condensers. But sometimes, even if you have a mic suited for a specific task, it is a good idea to add one of this. It will make the sound more natural.
Like SM58, it's made of metal, looking like it would last a life time. Don't freak out about the rotating / wobbling cap. It is mentioned in the specs that it's supposed to be like that. And unlike SM58, this one is smaller. So.. from my point of view it is worth every penny, even more. I believe this is a must have mic.
It's true what everybody says about SM57. This mic is a legend. I don't know if I can say anything bad about it, because it reproduce the sound perfectly. It has a clear and warm sound.
I've used it for guitar amp, bass amp, vocals, acoustic guitar and drums, and so far I was very pleased of the output. From my point of view, this is more suitable for live applications, since it doesn't enter in feedback so easily, and in studio I will be using it for guitar / bass amps and toms; otherwise I would go with condensers. But sometimes, even if you have a mic suited for a specific task, it is a good idea to add one of this. It will make the sound more natural.
Like SM58, it's made of metal, looking like it would last a life time. Don't freak out about the rotating / wobbling cap. It is mentioned in the specs that it's supposed to be like that. And unlike SM58, this one is smaller. So.. from my point of view it is worth every penny, even more. I believe this is a must have mic.
1
0
Report
NL
Versatile Mic
First things first. I'm not an audio engineer nor am I a recording technician. I record human speech both in an office/studio and on location for podcasts and broadcast. Therefore, I always aim for the very best quality recording whilst restricting my mic cupboard (small box!) to dynamic types due to their robustness and simplicity. I don't record vocalists/singers.
Utilising an RE20 as my main studio mic with an EV635A omnidirectional as my tough, go anywhere outdoor location mic - something was missing. I found myself in need of a general use directional microphone for use at indoor locations whilst on the road, which could also be used as a secondary mic in my studio for guest use.
After reading reviews and relying on gut reaction, (which hasn't yet let me down) I plumped for the SM57. What has surprised me is the sheer vocal quality and depth of this latest acquisition. On it's first outing, recording a subject on location in her lounge at 20-30cm produced a rich, realistic recording with just enough room ambience to stop things sounding sterile and one dimensional. Perfect! Place the mic closer and you get even deeper tones with no downside. So far, I reckon on 50cm as a maximum to maintain directional quality.
For my type of use, I also appreciate that I can just point and record with a minimum of faffing about such as setting up angles and distances etc. Keep the distance within 50cm (closer outdoors) and you won't be disappointed. The body is reassuringly weighty and robust which gives the perception of longevity. The carrying bag is a nice extra and I use the Shure A55M anti-shock clamp which isolates any vibration really well.
And the plastic voice coil guard that freely swivels 360º? I still haven't a clue!
Utilising an RE20 as my main studio mic with an EV635A omnidirectional as my tough, go anywhere outdoor location mic - something was missing. I found myself in need of a general use directional microphone for use at indoor locations whilst on the road, which could also be used as a secondary mic in my studio for guest use.
After reading reviews and relying on gut reaction, (which hasn't yet let me down) I plumped for the SM57. What has surprised me is the sheer vocal quality and depth of this latest acquisition. On it's first outing, recording a subject on location in her lounge at 20-30cm produced a rich, realistic recording with just enough room ambience to stop things sounding sterile and one dimensional. Perfect! Place the mic closer and you get even deeper tones with no downside. So far, I reckon on 50cm as a maximum to maintain directional quality.
For my type of use, I also appreciate that I can just point and record with a minimum of faffing about such as setting up angles and distances etc. Keep the distance within 50cm (closer outdoors) and you won't be disappointed. The body is reassuringly weighty and robust which gives the perception of longevity. The carrying bag is a nice extra and I use the Shure A55M anti-shock clamp which isolates any vibration really well.
And the plastic voice coil guard that freely swivels 360º? I still haven't a clue!
1
0
Report
A
All you need If you don't know what you need
If you had only these mics at disposal and made a bad recording with them, and I mean any recording. Then maybe you should find a new job.
Best overall mic for music there is in my experience. Sure you could get much more expensive mics, and record ants feet, but if you want to do a r'n'r record and don't know where to start, start by buying one of these (at least one)
Great rounded up, familiar classic sound, no harshness, no dullness, no hype, no lies, just honest meat and potato sound.
No super details also, but experienced professionals know that all the relevant information is here.
Classic for snare, and guitar cabinets, but also great for r'n'r vocals, bit more open then SM58, little less rejection of outside noise. Very often used for toms too.
Built like tank, feels like cold weapon in hand, no switches, no fuss, that cap at the tip is sturdier than it looks.
This mic for me in every aspect captures essence of r'n'r, from its build to its sound, from its history to its value. It is in the long run THE best value there is as you will probably never have to get rid of it.
If you don't know what to buy, buy this, you won't miss.
Best overall mic for music there is in my experience. Sure you could get much more expensive mics, and record ants feet, but if you want to do a r'n'r record and don't know where to start, start by buying one of these (at least one)
Great rounded up, familiar classic sound, no harshness, no dullness, no hype, no lies, just honest meat and potato sound.
No super details also, but experienced professionals know that all the relevant information is here.
Classic for snare, and guitar cabinets, but also great for r'n'r vocals, bit more open then SM58, little less rejection of outside noise. Very often used for toms too.
Built like tank, feels like cold weapon in hand, no switches, no fuss, that cap at the tip is sturdier than it looks.
This mic for me in every aspect captures essence of r'n'r, from its build to its sound, from its history to its value. It is in the long run THE best value there is as you will probably never have to get rid of it.
If you don't know what to buy, buy this, you won't miss.
3
0
Report
S
The Classic!
Provides a good mid-range for the guitar tone! Of course you can combine with Royer R-121 to get the actual tone!
<3 SM57...
<3 SM57...
0
0
Report
b
Perfect for electric guitar
I bought this as my second mic after a really cheap large diaphragm condenser. I wanted something that could record my guitar cabinet and also something with a bit better noise rejection than the condenser. The SM57 is perfect for this.
I've tried it for recording various things, and the only thing I don't like so far is acoustic guitar. I've seen people get good results with it, but for me it's lacking compared with a condenser mic.
I've tried it for recording various things, and the only thing I don't like so far is acoustic guitar. I've seen people get good results with it, but for me it's lacking compared with a condenser mic.
0
0
Report
c
An undisputed classic
The SM57 needs no introduction and therefore probably no need for a review at all, since the mic speaks for itself: a reliable, robust and familiar sound that can be used for all sorts of sound sources. At that price, it's a really good bang for the buck. I got mine in a bundle with a mic stand and an XLR cable, which were pretty decent as well. If you're looking for a mic you can rely on and will instantly get comfortable with, look no further - the SM57 is a must-have in the arsenal of every studio and/or on stage.
0
0
Report
RV
A monster in Live situations
By all means, this has got to be one of if not the best microphone I have ever used for live purposes. Do bear in mind that this mic was only used in front of celestion V30s which already have a great sound, so it was more a question of documenting the dynamics of the sound and distortion of my amplifier correctly rather than loudness or openness of sound. I play without reverb, with a very drivey, punchy sound that feels very dry at the same time because I use absolutely no pedals. With an orange amp and a V30, cranked to about half capacity, this mic would pick the tone up perfectly, and it would make me consistently happy with how the sound would turn out in the mixing desk when it would come out of the general PA. Power and clarity.
However, I do not have any experience with this mic in a studio, but I have heard amazing things. Frankly, if it could perform so well in such loud settings on a stage where a lot of things are unpredictable in terms of sound distribution through the venue, I am sure it can be tweaked to utter perfection within the confines of a studio.
Most heartily recommended!!!
However, I do not have any experience with this mic in a studio, but I have heard amazing things. Frankly, if it could perform so well in such loud settings on a stage where a lot of things are unpredictable in terms of sound distribution through the venue, I am sure it can be tweaked to utter perfection within the confines of a studio.
Most heartily recommended!!!
1
0
Report
JV
sturdy, reliable, polyvalent
The SM57 is a jack of all trade and master of none. It's sturdy, both physically and acoustically, which makes it great for stage. It's not very precise, which makes it less desirable for studio work, even though I sometimes use it on low quality instruments, because it doesn't pick up all their little flaws as much as a more expensive, condenser mike would. What else can I say? It's a classic, and probably the most affordable professional mike out there. The only thing I wouldn't use it for is voice, because of proximity effect. (For that I would use an SM58, which is basically the same mike with an attenuated low end compensating for proximity.) I gave it 5 stars for quality because of its sturdiness. I gave it 4 for sound because, even though not very precise (or sensitive), it has a well balanced sound. And I gave it five stars for features even thought it has no particular one, because what more do you need anyway?
0
0
Report
