The Shure SM58® is a unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone for professional vocal use in sound reinforcement and studio recording. A highly effective, built-in, spherical filter minimizes wind and breath “pop” noise. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The SM58 has a tailored vocal response for a sound which is a world standard. Rugged construction, a proven shockmount system, and a steel-mesh grille ensure that even with rough handling, the SM58 will perform consistently. Outdoors or indoors, singing or speech, the SM58 is the overwhelming choice of professionals worldwide.
The following table lists the most common applications and placement techniques. Keep in mind that microphone technique is largely a matter of personal taste; there is no one “correct” microphone position.
| Application | Suggested Microphone Placement | Tone Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Vocals | Lips less than 15 cm (6 in.) away or touching the windscreen, on axis to microphone. | Robust sound, emphasized bass, maximum isolation from other sources. |
| 15 to 60 cm (6 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, just above nose height. | Natural sound, reduced bass. | |
| 20 to 60 cm (8 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, slightly off to one side. | Natural sound, reduced bass and minimal “s” sounds. | |
| 90 cm to 1.8 m (3 to 6 ft.) away. | Thinner, distant sound; noticeable levels of ambient noise. |
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
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. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of proximity effect.
Dynamic (moving coil)
50 to 15,000 Hz
Cardioid
300 Ω
at 1 kHz, open circuit voltage
-56.0 dBV/Pa [1] (1.6 mV)
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
0.33 kg (0.72 lb)
SM58S, SM58SE
On/Off Switch
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male
Dark gray, enamel-painted, die cast metal; matte-finished, silver colored, spherical steel mesh grille
1 dBV/Pa= 94 dB SPL
Wiring Diagram
Typical Frequency Response
Typical Polar Pattern
| Microphone Clip for SM58, SM57, SM87A, BETA87A, BETA87C, PGA57, PGA58, PGA48, PGA81 | A25D |
| Carrying/Storage Bag | 95A2313 |
| Foam Windscreen for all larger Shure "ball-type" Microphones available in black, blue, gray, green, red and yellow | A58WS |
| Desk Stand | S37A |
| Shock Stopper® Isolation Mount | A55M |
| Shock Stopper Isolation Mount | A55HM |
| Over/Under Dual Mount for two microphones: SM57, BETA57A or 545 Series microphones | A26M |
| 25 foot (7.5m) Triple-Flex® Microphone XLR Cable with Switchcraft connectors | C25E |
| 25 foot (7.5m) Triple-Flex Microphone XLR Cable with chrome connectors | C25F |
| Grille for Wired and Wireless SM58 | RK143G |
| Cartridge for SM58 | R59 |
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
Global Compliance
Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12
75031 Eppingen, Germany
Phone: +49-7262-92 49 0
Email: info@shure.de
www.shure.com
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