Shure SM

The Shure Model SM81 is a high-quality, unidirectional condenser microphone designed for studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement. Its wide frequency response, low noise characteristics, and low RF susceptibility have made it a standard for applications involving acoustic instruments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.

OVERALL OPINION

Recommended for those serious about acoustic, wooden music or anything that needs a full 20Hz-20kHz response.

The SM57 is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid, directional pattern. Dynamic mics sound different than condenser mics, which are better for capturing hi and low frequencies. A dynamic mic like the SM57 does not need phantom power, which makes it more adaptable to mixers and recorders that don't have this feature. It records what it points to and rejects stuff from the side and from behind it. That makes it great for drums and good for the stage. It can also take very loud sounds without breaking up. Many drummers use it on the kick and snare drum because the sm57 can handle it, without a pad, where a condenser mic's sound would break up with distortion. Because of the tight directional pattern, it rejects bleed from other drums better than other mics.

OVERALL OPINION

There are some drawbacks to consider about the SM57. While it does not need phantom power, it does need a lot of gain at the preamp when recording softer sounds. That can bring in more noise from the preamp (the Mic itself is generally quiet). The SM57, as mentioned before, does not capture the very low or very high frequencies as well as condensers. You can use EQ to bring up these frequencies if you need to and for vocals and guitar I recommend that if its the only mic you own. If you use it outdoors on gigs make sure to bring along a windscreen.

I bought this mic after seeing the review on https://studiogearexperts.com 7 months regrets later, i have no complain about the mic.

what i live most most is its performance in live performances, less noise and powerful. thanks to the Cardioid Pickup Pattern

I also use it in my studio and it meets my demands.

if you are a vocal performer get this one!

I bought an SM57 primarily to record electric guitars. I spent hours with several other microphones and never really got a sound I was happy with until I tried the SM57. It was the clear winner after multiple position and amp setting checks.

I also recorded some vocals with the SM57-- very versatile mic.

There's a reason why so many people say so many good things about this mic. It's only a $100! Can't go wrong.

I used it on this track for reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeQ4J7vLdvI