Shure SM58

General Description

The Shure SM58^® is a unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone designed for professional vocal use in sound reinforcement and studio recording. It features a highly effective, built-in spherical filter to minimize wind and breath "pop" noise. Its cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The SM58 has a tailored vocal response that has become a world standard. Its rugged construction, proven shockmount system, and steel-mesh grille ensure consistent performance even with rough handling. The SM58 is the preferred choice for professionals worldwide, whether used outdoors or indoors, for singing or speech.

Features

• Performance tested, industry standard
• Uniform cardioid pick-up pattern for maximum gain before feedback and excellent rejection of off-axis sound
• Tailored frequency response specifically shaped for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass roll off to control proximity effect
• Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
• Steel-mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction resist wear and abuse
• Effective built-in pop-filter reduces undesirable wind and breathe noise
• Furnished with zippered storage bag and break-resistant stand adapter
• On/Off switch (SM58S only)
• Extremely durable under the heaviest use
• Shure quality, ruggedness and reliability

Placement

General Rules for Use

• Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source (such as the talker, singer, or instrument) and away from unwanted sources.
• Place the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source.
• Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.
• Use only one microphone to pick up a single sound source.
• Use the fewest number of microphones as practical.
• Keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each microphone to its source.
• Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces.
• Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.
• Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.
• Do not cover any part of the microphone grille with your hand, as this will adversely affect microphone performance.

Applications And Placement

The following table lists common applications and placement techniques. Microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste; there is no one "correct" microphone position.

Avoiding Pickup of Unwanted Sound Sources

Place the microphone so that unwanted sound sources, such as monitors and loudspeakers, are directly behind it. To minimize feedback and ensure optimum rejection of unwanted sound, always test microphone placement before a performance.

Recommended Loudspeaker Locations for Cardioid Microphones: A diagram shows a cardioid microphone positioned between two P.A. loudspeakers and a monitor speaker. The microphone is aimed at the sound source, with the loudspeakers and monitor positioned directly behind the microphone's null points (180 degrees off-axis).

Proximity Effect

Unidirectional (cardioid) microphones progressively boost bass frequencies by 6 to 10 dB below 100 Hz when the microphone is at a distance of about 6 mm (1/4 in.) from the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. To prevent explosive low-frequency sound during close-up use, the bass response gradually rolls off, providing greater control and helping the user take advantage of proximity effect.

Specifications

Type: Dynamic (moving coil)

Frequency Response: 50 to 15,000 Hz

Polar Pattern: Cardioid

Diagrams:

• Wiring Diagram: A diagram illustrates the typical wiring connections for the SM58 microphone.
• Typical Frequency Response: A graph shows the frequency response of the SM58, with frequency in Hz on the x-axis and sound pressure level in dB on the y-axis. The response is relatively flat from approximately 100 Hz to 5 kHz, with a boost in the midrange and a roll-off at higher frequencies.
• Typical Polar Pattern: Two polar pattern diagrams are shown. The left diagram, for 125 Hz and 500 Hz, shows a classic cardioid pattern with maximum sensitivity at 0 degrees and significant rejection at 180 degrees. The right diagram, for 2000 Hz and 4000 Hz, also shows a cardioid pattern, with a slightly narrower main lobe at higher frequencies.

Overall Dimensions: A diagram indicating the physical dimensions of the SM58 microphone.

Accessories

Furnished Accessories

Optional Accessories

Replacement Parts

Certifications

This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking. The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance

Authorized European representative:
Shure Europe GmbH
Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa
Department: EMEA Approval
Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12
75031 Eppingen, Germany
Phone: +49-7262-92 490
Fax: +49-7262-92 49114
Email: info@shure.de