Shure SM57 Microphone Review: The Ultimate Guide

You walk into any professional recording studio around the world. You look at the microphone collection on the wall. You will almost always find at least one Shure SM57 sitting there. This little workhorse has been the secret weapon of audio professionals for over 50 years. Presidents use it for speeches. Rock legends use it to capture guitar tones. Studio engineers swear by it for drum recordings. But what makes this microphone so special? And is it really worth the hype in 2024?

This Shure SM57 review will answer all your questions. We will explore every feature, every strength, and yes, even the weaknesses of this legendary microphone. Whether you are a bedroom producer, a touring musician, or a professional engineer, this guide will help you understand why the SM57 deserves a spot in your gear collection. We will cover everything from technical specifications to real world applications. You will learn exactly what this mic does best and when you might want to consider an alternative.

Key Takeaways:

Here are the most important points about the Shure SM57 that you should understand before making your purchase decision:

Unmatched Versatility: The SM57 works brilliantly on guitar amplifiers, snare drums, brass instruments, woodwinds, and even vocals. This single microphone can handle almost any instrument you throw at it.

Built Like a Tank: This microphone features a steel mesh grille and rugged construction. It can survive drops, bumps, and the abuse of daily touring. Many SM57s have been working flawlessly for decades.

Excellent Sound Quality: The frequency response ranges from 40Hz to 15kHz with a presence peak around 5kHz. This gives instruments clarity, bite, and professional character without sounding harsh or artificial.

Outstanding Value: At around $100, the SM57 delivers professional studio quality sound at an accessible price point. No other microphone in this price range comes close to its versatility and reliability.

Industry Standard Status: Engineers worldwide know exactly how an SM57 sounds. This makes collaboration easier and ensures your recordings translate well across different listening environments and playback systems.

What Is the Shure SM57 Microphone

The Shure SM57 is a cardioid dynamic microphone designed primarily for instrument recording and live sound reinforcement. Shure introduced this microphone in 1965. Since then, it has become one of the most recognized microphones in professional audio. The SM57 belongs to the dynamic microphone category. This means it uses a moving coil attached to a diaphragm to convert sound waves into electrical signals.

Dynamic microphones like the SM57 do not require phantom power. They can handle extremely high sound pressure levels without distortion. This makes them perfect for loud instruments like drum kits and guitar amplifiers. The cardioid polar pattern means the microphone captures sound mainly from the front. It rejects sound coming from the sides and rear. This gives you excellent isolation in live situations and recording environments where multiple instruments play simultaneously.

The SM57 weighs just 284 grams. It measures 157mm in length with a 32mm diameter. These compact dimensions make it easy to position in tight spaces. You can angle it precisely on a snare drum. You can slide it close to a guitar amplifier speaker cone. The microphone comes with a swivel stand adapter. This allows you to mount it on any standard microphone stand quickly and securely.

The History and Legacy of the SM57

The Shure SM57 launched in 1965 as an instrument microphone. Shure designed it as a companion to the SM58 vocal microphone. Both microphones share the same internal capsule design. The main difference lies in the grille. The SM58 features a ball grille with built in pop filter for vocal use. The SM57 has a smaller grille without the pop filter. This makes it more suitable for close miking instruments.

Over the decades, the SM57 became the standard for presidential speeches in the United States. Every president since Lyndon Johnson has used SM57 microphones at press conferences and official speeches. The setup typically uses two SM57s with dual rubber shock mounts. This reduces handling noise and provides redundancy. The microphone’s reliability and consistent sound quality make it perfect for important government communications.

Musicians and engineers discovered that the SM57 excels at many recording tasks. It became the go to microphone for snare drums in the 1970s. Guitar players found it captured the perfect tone from their amplifiers. Brass and woodwind musicians appreciated how it handled high sound pressure levels. Recording studios bought dozens of them. Today, you can find the SM57 in studios ranging from tiny home setups to legendary facilities like Abbey Road.

Technical Specifications Explained

The frequency response of the SM57 spans from 40Hz to 15kHz. This range captures the fundamental tones and harmonics of most musical instruments. The response is not completely flat. It features a gentle roll off below 200Hz. This helps reduce rumble and handling noise. The frequency response shows a presence peak around 4kHz to 6kHz. This boost adds clarity and definition to instruments. It helps them cut through a mix without sounding harsh.

The cardioid polar pattern provides excellent off axis rejection. Sound arriving from the sides gets attenuated by about 6dB. Sound from directly behind the microphone gets rejected by 15 to 20dB. This pattern helps isolate your target sound source. When you mic a snare drum, the SM57 picks up mostly the snare. It rejects much of the cymbal wash and other drum kit elements. This gives you clean recordings that are easy to mix.

The microphone handles extremely high sound pressure levels. It can take at least 150dB SPL without distortion. For reference, a jet engine at takeoff measures around 140dB. A loud guitar amplifier pushed hard might reach 120 to 130dB. The SM57 handles these levels easily. You never need to worry about overloading the microphone itself. The output impedance measures 150 ohms. This balanced output works perfectly with professional audio interfaces and mixing consoles.

Build Quality and Durability

The SM57 features legendary build quality. The microphone body consists of die cast metal construction. The grille uses hardened steel mesh. This mesh protects the internal capsule from physical damage. Many SM57 microphones survive decades of heavy use. Some units have been dropped from stages, knocked over by guitar players, and subjected to extreme temperatures. They keep working without any degradation in sound quality.

The internal components include a pneumatic shock mount system. This system suspends the microphone capsule inside the body using rubber mounts. It reduces vibration and handling noise transmission. When you mount the SM57 on a stand, this shock mount prevents bumps and vibrations from reaching the capsule. You get cleaner recordings with less mechanical noise interference.

The XLR connector at the bottom provides a secure professional connection. The connector uses a locking mechanism. This prevents the cable from accidentally disconnecting during performances. The balanced XLR output rejects electromagnetic interference. You can run long cable runs without picking up hum or radio frequency interference. This reliability matters in professional environments where equipment failure is not an option.

Sound Quality and Frequency Response

The SM57 delivers a bright, clean sound with excellent detail. The presence peak in the upper midrange adds definition and clarity. This peak helps instruments stand out in a mix. It provides the snap on a snare drum. It captures the bite and attack of a distorted guitar amplifier. The microphone does not sound artificially hyped or harsh. The tonal balance feels natural and musical.

The low frequency response rolls off gently below 200Hz. This characteristic helps control proximity effect. Proximity effect causes an increase in bass response when you position a directional microphone close to a sound source. The SM57’s response curve compensates for this effect. When you place it close to a guitar amplifier or snare drum, you get a balanced tone without excessive boom or muddiness.

The high frequency extension reaches 15kHz. This captures important harmonic content and air. While the SM57 does not extend as high as some condenser microphones, it captures everything important for most instruments. The slight roll off above 12kHz actually helps the microphone sound smooth. It reduces harshness and sibilance. You get professional quality recordings that sit well in a mix without requiring extensive equalization.

Top 3 Alternatives for Shure SM57

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Recording Guitar Amplifiers with the SM57

The SM57 stands as the industry standard for guitar amp recording. Engineers reach for it first when tracking electric guitars. The microphone captures the tone of the amplifier accurately. It handles the high sound pressure levels from a loud amp without any strain. The presence peak adds clarity to distorted guitar tones. It brings out the bite and attack that make rock and metal guitars sound powerful.

Microphone placement significantly affects your recorded tone. The classic starting position places the SM57 capsule about one inch from the speaker grille. Point it directly at the speaker cone center for a bright, aggressive tone. Move it toward the edge of the speaker for a darker, warmer sound. Angle the microphone off axis for a smoother tone with less high frequency content. These simple adjustments give you a wide range of tonal options.

Many famous guitar recordings use the SM57. Classic rock albums from the 1970s feature SM57 on countless guitar tracks. Modern metal producers still use it today. The microphone works equally well on clean tones and heavy distortion. It captures the natural character of the amplifier. You spend less time trying to fix problems in the mix. The tone sounds right from the start with minimal processing needed.

Capturing Perfect Snare Drum Sounds

The SM57 has been the default snare drum microphone for over 40 years. Walk into any professional studio and you will see an SM57 positioned on the snare. The microphone captures the perfect balance of body and snap. The low frequency response provides weight and punch. The presence peak adds the crisp attack that makes a snare cut through a dense mix.

Standard placement positions the SM57 about one to two inches above the snare rim. Angle it toward the center of the drum head at approximately 45 degrees. This position captures both the stick attack and the drum body resonance. You can experiment with height and angle to adjust the balance between snap and tone. Moving closer emphasizes attack. Pulling back increases body and room ambience.

The cardioid pattern provides excellent cymbal rejection. Even when cymbals crash loudly overhead, the SM57 stays focused on the snare drum. This isolation makes mixing easier. You get a clean snare sound without excessive cymbal bleed. You can process the snare track independently without affecting other drum elements. The SM57’s predictable sound makes it easy to get consistent results session after session.

Using the SM57 for Vocal Recording

While designed primarily as an instrument microphone, the SM57 works surprisingly well for vocal recording. Many professional vocal tracks feature SM57. The microphone handles loud, aggressive vocal styles effectively. It works particularly well for rock, punk, and metal vocals. The presence peak adds clarity and helps vocals cut through heavy instrumentation.

The SM57 requires proper technique for vocal use. Position the microphone about 3 to 6 inches from your mouth. Use a windscreen to control plosives. The Shure A2WS windscreen fits the SM57 perfectly. It reduces popping sounds from P and B sounds. Some engineers prefer the raw, unfiltered sound of the SM57 on vocals. It provides an edgy, present character that works beautifully for certain musical styles.

Dynamic microphones like the SM57 offer advantages in untreated rooms. They reject room reflections better than condenser microphones. If you record in a bedroom or basement without acoustic treatment, the SM57 captures less room sound. Your vocals sound more direct and focused. The microphone also handles loud singers without distortion. You never need to worry about overloading the capsule during energetic performances.

Recording Brass and Woodwind Instruments

The SM57 excels at capturing brass instruments. It handles the high sound pressure levels from trumpets, trombones, and saxophones without breaking a sweat. The frequency response complements the natural tone of brass instruments. It captures the fundamental tones and important harmonics. The presence peak adds definition and helps the instrument project in a mix.

Saxophone recording works particularly well with the SM57. Position the microphone about 6 to 12 inches from the bell. Angle it slightly off axis to reduce harshness on loud passages. The SM57 captures the warm body tone and the bright edge of the sax. It works for jazz, rock, and pop saxophone parts. Many classic saxophone solos on famous recordings used the SM57 or similar dynamic microphones.

Woodwind instruments like clarinets and flutes also sound good through the SM57. These instruments produce lower sound pressure levels than brass. The SM57’s sensitivity handles them appropriately. Position the microphone to capture sound from the tone holes and bell. The microphone provides a natural, balanced tone. It captures the character of the instrument without adding unwanted coloration or harshness.

Live Sound Applications and Stage Performance

The SM57 serves as a reliable live sound workhorse. Its rugged construction survives the demanding conditions of touring and live performance. The cardioid pattern provides good gain before feedback. You can run higher monitor levels without the microphone feeding back. This makes it suitable for loud stage environments where multiple sound sources compete for attention.

Instrument amplification represents the primary live use for the SM57. It captures guitar amplifiers, bass cabinets, and keyboard amps cleanly on stage. Sound engineers love how easy the SM57 makes their job. They know exactly what to expect from this microphone. They can dial in good tone quickly without surprises. The consistent performance reduces setup time and technical difficulties during shows.

Many performers use the SM57 for live vocals as well. While the SM58 remains more popular for vocals, the SM57 works fine. Some singers prefer its slightly brighter tone. The smaller grille makes it easier to position close to the mouth. The SM57 handles loud, dynamic vocal performances without distortion. It provides clear, present vocals that cut through the stage mix effectively.

Home Studio Recording Applications

The SM57 represents an excellent first microphone for home studio owners. Its versatility means you can record almost any instrument effectively. You do not need a large microphone collection. One SM57 handles guitar amps, acoustic guitars, vocals, percussion, and more. This makes it perfect for musicians on a budget who need professional results.

Home recording conditions often include less than ideal acoustic treatment. The SM57’s dynamic design and cardioid pattern help manage these challenges. It rejects room reflections better than most condenser microphones. You get cleaner, more focused recordings even in untreated bedrooms and basements. The microphone does not require phantom power. This makes it compatible with even the most basic audio interfaces.

Many bedroom producers create entire albums using just an SM57. The microphone adapts to different recording situations. You can record loud rock music and quiet acoustic performances. The consistent sound quality ensures your recordings sound cohesive. Professional mastering engineers can work with SM57 tracks easily. The microphone captures enough detail and frequency range for commercial quality releases.

Comparing SM57 vs SM58

The SM57 and SM58 share the same internal capsule. This gives them nearly identical frequency response and sensitivity. The main difference lies in the grille design. The SM58 features a larger ball grille with integrated pop filter. The SM57 has a smaller, shorter grille without pop filtering. This makes the SM58 better suited for handheld vocal use. The SM57 works better for instrument miking where grille size matters.

Frequency response differences are subtle but measurable. The SM57 extends slightly higher in the frequency range. It reaches 15kHz while the SM58 rolls off around 13kHz. This gives the SM57 a bit more air and detail. The SM57 also has slightly more presence peak. These differences make the SM57 sound marginally brighter and more aggressive on instruments.

Price and availability are nearly identical. Both microphones sell for around $100. Most music stores stock both models. Many engineers own both and use them according to the application. Some studios standardize on the SM57 for everything. They find its versatility eliminates the need for separate vocal and instrument mics. Either choice provides excellent value and professional quality sound.

Maintenance and Care Tips

The SM57 requires minimal maintenance. Keep the grille clean by brushing it gently with a soft brush. Dust and debris can accumulate in the grille over time. This might slightly affect high frequency response. A quick cleaning every few months keeps the microphone sounding its best. Avoid using liquids or compressed air. These can damage the internal capsule.

Store your SM57 safely when not in use. The microphone comes with a protective pouch. Keep it in this pouch or a padded case. While the SM57 handles rough treatment well, proper storage extends its life. Avoid exposing the microphone to extreme temperatures or humidity. These conditions can degrade internal components over time. Room temperature storage in a dry environment works perfectly.

Check the XLR connector periodically. Make sure the pins remain straight and undamaged. Bent pins cause connection problems and intermittent audio. If a pin bends, you can carefully straighten it with needle nose pliers. The threaded connector base should tighten smoothly on the microphone body. If it becomes loose, a drop of thread locking compound can secure it without permanent damage.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Low output volume sometimes occurs with the SM57. This usually results from incorrect gain staging rather than microphone problems. Dynamic microphones produce lower output than condenser mics. You need to set your preamp gain higher. If your interface has a dedicated instrument input, use the line or microphone input instead. The instrument input expects lower impedance signals. Apply plenty of clean gain to get strong recording levels.

Handling noise can become problematic when mounting the SM57 on stands. The internal shock mount helps but does not eliminate all vibration. Use a quality microphone stand. Tighten all knobs securely. Position the stand on solid flooring rather than bouncy wooden floors. Consider using an external shock mount for critical recordings. The Shure A55M shock mount works well with the SM57 for maximum isolation.

Counterfeit SM57 microphones flood the market. These fake units look similar but sound terrible. They lack build quality and reliability. Always buy from authorized dealers. Check the serial number on Shure’s website. Genuine SM57s have clear, legible printing and precise construction. If the price seems too good to be true, the microphone probably is fake. Invest in a real SM57 for guaranteed quality and longevity.

Price and Value Analysis

The SM57 typically sells for around $100 USD. This price has remained remarkably stable for decades. When adjusted for inflation, the SM57 actually costs less today than when it launched in 1965. This represents outstanding value. No other microphone delivers professional studio quality at this price point. The SM57 competes with microphones costing three to five times more.

Cost per application makes the SM57 incredibly economical. A specialized microphone might excel at one task. The SM57 handles at least a dozen recording situations effectively. This versatility means you need fewer microphones. A home studio can start with just an SM57 and a decent condenser mic. This two microphone setup covers 90 percent of recording needs for most musicians.

Resale value remains strong for SM57 microphones. Used units in good condition sell for 60 to 80 percent of new price. The microphone holds value because of its universal appeal and legendary reliability. Even after years of use, a well maintained SM57 performs like new. This strong resale market means your investment stays protected. You can upgrade or change gear without losing much money.

Professional Engineer Opinions

Grammy winning engineers consistently praise the SM57. Many consider it essential to their microphone locker. They appreciate its predictable sound and reliable performance. When tracking in unfamiliar studios, they can rely on finding an SM57. This consistency helps them work efficiently. They know exactly how to position it and what sonic results to expect. This professional endorsement speaks volumes about the microphone’s quality.

Mixing engineers love tracks recorded with SM57. The microphone captures sound that sits well in a mix. It provides enough detail and frequency range without sounding thin or harsh. SM57 tracks require less corrective equalization. This speeds up the mixing process. The familiar sound makes it easy to make quick decisions. Engineers can focus on creativity rather than fixing technical problems.

Audio educators recommend the SM57 to students consistently. Learning proper microphone technique with an SM57 teaches skills that transfer to any microphone. Students learn microphone placement, gain staging, and sound capture fundamentals. The affordable price makes the SM57 accessible to students. Its professional quality means students learn on the same gear used in major studios. This prepares them for professional work.

When to Consider Alternatives

The SM57 excels at many tasks but certain applications benefit from different microphones. Acoustic instruments like acoustic guitar and piano often sound better with condenser microphones. Condensers capture more high frequency detail and air. They provide a more open, natural sound for delicate acoustic sources. Consider a large diaphragm condenser for these applications. The SM57 works but specialized mics perform better.

Very quiet sound sources challenge dynamic microphones. Whispered vocals or quiet spoken word recording work better with condensers. The SM57’s sensitivity works best with moderate to loud sound sources. Extremely quiet sources may require excessive preamp gain. This can introduce noise. A quality condenser microphone provides better signal to noise ratio for quiet recording situations.

Specialized instrument recording sometimes demands specific microphones. Kick drum recording usually benefits from dedicated kick drum mics. Overhead cymbal recording sounds better with matched pair condenser mics. The SM57 can capture these sources in a pinch. Dedicated microphones designed for specific applications typically deliver superior results. Use the SM57 for its strengths and invest in specialized mics as your needs grow.

Final Verdict: Is the SM57 Worth Buying

The Shure SM57 absolutely deserves its legendary status. This microphone delivers professional quality sound across a remarkable range of applications. Its build quality ensures decades of reliable service. The affordable price makes it accessible to everyone from beginners to professionals. Every studio should own at least one SM57. Many professional studios own dozens for various simultaneous recording tasks.

First time buyers should feel confident choosing the SM57. It represents a safe investment that will serve you for years. You can learn proper recording technique with this microphone. The skills transfer directly to professional studio work. The SM57 grows with you from bedroom recordings to professional projects. It remains relevant and useful regardless of your skill level or recording needs.

Experienced engineers already know the SM57’s value. If you do not own one yet, add it to your collection immediately. The microphone fills gaps in any microphone locker. It serves as a reliable backup when specialized mics fail. It handles unexpected recording situations effectively. The SM57 represents essential equipment for serious recording work. Its combination of versatility, quality, and value remains unmatched in professional audio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Shure SM57 need phantom power to work properly?

No, the SM57 does not need phantom power. This dynamic microphone generates its signal through electromagnetic induction. The moving coil creates voltage when sound waves move it through a magnetic field. This design means the SM57 works with any audio interface or mixer. It functions whether phantom power is on or off. Phantom power will not damage the SM57 but provides no benefit.

Can you use the SM57 for podcast recording?

Yes, the SM57 works well for podcast recording. It captures clear, present voice tones. The microphone rejects room noise effectively thanks to its cardioid pattern. Many podcasters prefer dynamic microphones in untreated rooms. The SM57 provides professional broadcast quality sound. Add a windscreen to control plosives. Position it 3 to 6 inches from your mouth for best results.

How long do Shure SM57 microphones typically last?

SM57 microphones routinely last 20 to 30 years with normal use. Many units from the 1970s still work perfectly today. The rugged construction and simple design ensure longevity. The microphone has no batteries or electronic components to fail. The moving coil capsule remains stable over decades. Proper care and storage extend life indefinitely. SM57s often outlast the equipment you connect them to.

What cable do you need for the Shure SM57?

The SM57 requires a standard XLR microphone cable. Use a quality balanced XLR cable. Cable length depends on your setup. A 10 to 20 foot cable works for most home studios. Longer cables work fine without signal degradation. The balanced XLR connection rejects interference over long cable runs. Avoid unbalanced adapters as these compromise sound quality and introduce noise.

Can the SM57 record acoustic guitar effectively?

The SM57 can record acoustic guitar but condenser microphones usually work better. The SM57 captures the attack and presence of acoustic guitar nicely. It works particularly well for strummed rhythm guitar in rock and country music. For fingerstyle playing or classical guitar, a condenser microphone captures more detail and natural tone. Use the SM57 when you want a present, punchy acoustic sound in a dense mix.

What makes the SM57 better than cheaper dynamic microphones?

The SM57 features superior build quality and consistent manufacturing standards. Cheaper microphones use lower quality components and looser quality control. The SM57’s capsule provides better frequency response and transient response. The output transformer in the SM57 delivers cleaner signal. Balanced output rejects interference effectively. These engineering details create audible differences. The SM57 sounds more detailed, natural, and professional than budget alternatives.

How do you clean a Shure SM57 microphone properly?

Clean the grille with a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Brush gently to avoid damaging the mesh. Use a dry brush only. Never use liquids, cleaning solutions, or compressed air. These can damage internal components. Wipe the microphone body with a slightly damp cloth if needed. Let it dry completely before use. The SM57 requires minimal cleaning. Occasional brushing maintains optimal performance.

Does the SM57 work well for recording drums besides snare?

Yes, the SM57 works on many drum kit elements. It captures tom toms effectively with punchy attack and controlled low end. Some engineers use SM57s on hi hats for a focused, present tone. It can close mic ride cymbals when you want isolation from other drums. The SM57 handles kick drum but dedicated kick mics usually sound better. Multiple SM57s provide affordable solutions for full drum kit recording.

Last update on 2026-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API