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Shure PGA48 Review | 76 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£55
Avg. price in US: ~$50
Connection type: XLR
Transducer type: dynamic
Max SPL: 148 dB SPL
Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
Output connector type: XLR

Shure PGA48 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.5

Good

5.5

Good

9.5

Exceptional

4.6
Gaming
Score components:
25.0%
4.0
Zero-latency monitoring
25.0%
4.0
Onboard gain control
20.0%
10
Mute function
20.0%
1.0
Volume control levels
10.0%
4.0
RGB lighting
6.9
Podcasting
Score components:
25.0%
10
Cardioid pattern
20.0%
4.0
Zero-latency monitoring
20.0%
4.0
Onboard gain control
20.0%
?
Audio interface bit depth
15.0%
?
Audio interface sample rate
6.4
Vocal recording
Score components:
40.0%
10
Max SPL
20.0%
1.0
Highest frequency
20.0%
1.0
Lowest frequency
20.0%
10
Cardioid pattern
4.5
Streaming
Score components:
25.0%
4.0
Loopback support
25.0%
4.0
Zero-latency monitoring
20.0%
4.0
Onboard gain control
15.0%
10
Mute function
15.0%
1.0
Volume control levels
6.2
Camera use
Score components:
30.0%
?
Weight
25.0%
4.0
Windscreen included
25.0%
4.0
Shock mount included
10.0%
8.7
Height
10.0%
9.2
Width

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Verdict

The Shure PGA48 is a durable dynamic vocal microphone designed primarily for spoken word and karaoke, featuring a cardioid polar pattern for focused sound capture and a tailored frequency response of 70 Hz to 15,000 Hz. Weighing 300g with a 600 Ω output impedance and -53.5 dBV/Pa sensitivity, its main characteristics include a rugged metal construction, a built-in on/off switch for convenient muting, and a presence boost for speech clarity. Key pros are its high-value budget price point and reliable build quality; however, cons include high handling noise, a limited high-frequency range compared to premium models, and poor rejection of plosives without an external pop filter.

Technical Specifications of Shure PGA48

Overall score

6.5

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Audio Performance

6.5

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Microphone type

What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.

When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

handheld

Transducer type

What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.

When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

dynamic

Diaphragm size

What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.

When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

? (dynamic microphone, manufacturer does not specify diaphragm size) inch / mm

Capsule type

What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.

When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single

Sensitivity

What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.

When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-53.5 dBV/Pa

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Connectivity

5.2

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Connection type

What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

XLR

Output connector type

What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

XLR

Headphone output

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.

When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

3.5 mm audio jack

What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.

When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

6.35 mm audio jack connector

What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.

When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

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Recording

4.0

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Supported sample rates

What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Supported bit depths

What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.

When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Audio interface sample rate

What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Audio interface bit depth

What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.

When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)

What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.

When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Pickup Patterns

3.2

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N. of polar patterns

What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.

When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

Cardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.

When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

Omnidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.

When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

Hypercardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.

When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

Bidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.

When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

Controls & Features

6.4

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Mute function

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.

When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

Onboard gain control

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.

When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

Volume control levels

What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.

When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

Flat DSP mode

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.

When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

DSP presets

What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.

When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

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Power

7.0

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Phantom power required

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.

When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

Phantom power voltage

What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.

When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB bus-powered

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery life

What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.

When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Design

7.4

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Height

What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.

When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

Width

What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.

When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.

When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.

When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

?

Body material

What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.

When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal

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Accessories

6.5

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Included accessories

What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.

When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; mount adapter; carrying case

Shock mount included

What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.

When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

Pop filter included

What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.

When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

Windscreen included

What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.

When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

Cable length

What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.

When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

?

Compatibility

7.2

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Android compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.

When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

iOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

Windows compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.

When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

macOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.

When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

Xbox compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.

When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

?

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Shure PGA48 vs the average microphone

Why is Shure PGA48 better than the average microphone?

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26 dB SPL higher limit
Shure PGA48 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (148 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.
Importance: MEDIUM
Shure PGA48 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (148 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.148 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
Supports balanced output
Shure PGA48 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.
Importance: LOW
Shure PGA48 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
18.3% higher user score
Shure PGA48 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.47 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Shure PGA48 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.47 vs 8.000).9.47 vs 8
26 dB SPL higher limit
Shure PGA48 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (148 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
Supports balanced output
Shure PGA48 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.

Audio Performance

Why is Shure PGA48 worse than the average microphone?

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50 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Shure PGA48 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Shure PGA48 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
6 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Shure PGA48 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (72 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
No headphone output
Shure PGA48 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Shure PGA48 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
No zero-latency monitoring
Shure PGA48 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Shure PGA48 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No USB bus power
Shure PGA48 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
5 older release date
Shure PGA48 is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
March 2015.
Not compatible with Android
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with iOS
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Requires external audio interface.
No zero-latency monitoring
Shure PGA48 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.
Importance: MEDIUM
Shure PGA48 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Shure PGA48 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.
Importance: MEDIUM
Shure PGA48 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
50 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Shure PGA48 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.
Importance: LOW
Shure PGA48 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.70 Hz vs 20 Hz
5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Shure PGA48 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.
Importance: LOW
Shure PGA48 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.15000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
No USB bus power
Shure PGA48 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.
Importance: MEDIUM
Shure PGA48 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
Not compatible with iOS
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Requires external audio interface.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.
Importance: LOW
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with Android
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.
Importance: LOW
Shure PGA48 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
6 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Shure PGA48 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (72 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.
Importance: MEDIUM
Shure PGA48 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (72 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.72 dB vs 78 dB

Audio Performance

Controls & Features

Graphic comparison of Shure PGA48 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Shure PGA48?

Exceptional value and affordability for a reputable brand
Rugged, durable metal build quality that 'feels like a tank'
Convenient integrated on/off switch for quick muting
Clear sound reproduction tailored specifically for speech and karaoke
Includes essential accessories such as an XLR cable, stand mount, and zipper pouch
Good background noise rejection due to its cardioid polar pattern

What customers dislike about Shure PGA48?

Poor handling noise rejection when held in the hand
Sensitive to plosives ('P' and 'B' sounds) and may require an external pop filter
Narrower frequency response (70Hz–15kHz) compared to professional-grade models
Can feel heavy, which may cause some lightweight mic stands to tip
Not ideal for high-end studio recording or complex instrument miking
Lower output level compared to more expensive dynamic microphones

Expert reviews

podcastage.com

11/06/2025

Shure PGA48Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. Dynamic Mic Review / Test

The Shure PGA48 is an affordable, entry-level dynamic microphone priced between $34 and $39, making it a highly compelling option for beginners on a strict budget. In his comprehensive review, Bandrew Scott from Podcastage highlights that the microphone features an all-metal body and mesh grill, a convenient on/off switch, and a cardioid polar pattern with a tailored vocal frequency...Read more

bonedo.de

13/05/2015

Shure PG Alta PGA48 and PGA58 Review - Bonedo

The Shure PGA48 and PGA58 are entry-level dynamic microphones designed primarily for vocal use, with the PGA48 targeted at speech and karaoke, and the PGA58 aimed at lead and backing vocals. Priced as affordable alternatives to the legendary Shure SM58, both models feature integrated on/off switches to mute the audio output. They share a solid build quality, weighing around 300...Read more

delamar.de

16/03/2015

Shure PGA48 Review - Microphone - Delamar

The delamar review highlights the Shure PGA48 as an exceptionally budget-friendly dynamic microphone tailored specifically for spoken-word applications, public speaking, DJ announcements, and karaoke nights. Priced at just €49, the microphone earns a 4.0 out of 5 score for delivering strong value within its lower-tier price bracket. Acoustically, it utilizes a cardioid polar pattern...Read more

homerecording.info

25/02/2025

Shure PGA48 Review – The Ideal Beginner Microphone?", "Shure PGA48 Test – The Perfect Entry-Level Microphone?

A major advantage of this package is its price-to-performance ratio, making it an excellent entry-level option that includes essential accessories like a cable, a storage pouch, and a microphone clip. The review highlights its excellent vocal clarity, robust material construction, and the specific cardioid polar pattern that effectively rejects background noise in home studios. On...Read more

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