Shure SM58 Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£110
  • Avg. price in US: ~$100
  • Connection type: XLR
  • Transducer type: dynamic
  • Max SPL: 160 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
  • Output connector type: XLR

Shure SM58 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

5.6

Technical Score

25.0%

9.7

User score

Good
5.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.2

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

7.0

Power

7.0%

8.7

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

6.9

Design

3.0%

8.3

Accessories

Good
9.7

User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(10211)
amazon
4.7
(3996)
amazon
4.7
(3962)
amazon
4.7
(1347)
amazon
4.8
(159)
amazon
4.5
(42)
amazon
4.3
(5)
amazon
2.7
(2)
United States
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4.8
(14415)
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4.8
(3994)
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4.6
(1338)
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4.8
(161)
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4.4
(5)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    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

  • 7.1
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    1.0

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    4.6

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 3.6
    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%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 8.3
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.8

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    8.9

    Height

    10.0%

    9.7

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Shure SM58 is a legendary unidirectional dynamic cardioid microphone specifically tailored for live vocal performance, featuring a frequency response of 50 Hz to 15,000 Hz and a sensitivity of -54.5 dBV/Pa. Its main characteristics include a presence peak in the midrange for vocal clarity, a low-frequency roll-off to control the proximity effect, and a built-in spherical wind and pop filter to minimize plosives. Key pros are its legendary 'built-like-a-tank' durability, an integrated pneumatic shock-mount system that virtually eliminates handling noise, and high gain-before-feedback. However, its cons include a limited frequency range compared to modern condensers, which may lack high-end 'air' or deep bass detail, and its relatively low sensitivity might require significant gain from a preamp for quieter sources.

Technical Specifications of Shure SM58

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.2

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

3.9

Controls & Features

10.0%

7.0

Power

7.0%

8.7

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

6.9

Design

3.0%

8.3

Accessories

5.6
Shure SM58 has a technical score of 5.58 points, which is lower than 93% of microphones.
User score

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.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(10211)
amazon
4.7
(3996)
amazon
4.7
(3962)
amazon
4.7
(1347)
amazon
4.8
(159)
amazon
4.5
(42)
amazon
4.3
(5)
amazon
2.7
(2)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(14415)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(3994)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1338)
Amazon_logo.png
4.8
(161)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(5)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.7
Shure SM58 has a user score of 9.69 points, which is higher than 99% of microphones.
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.
10
Shure SM58 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 69.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

7.6
Shure SM58 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.6 points, which is lower than 68.3% of products in this category.
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

?
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

-54.5 dBV/Pa
Show more
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include a headphone output. 63.5% of microphones include this output.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% of microphones include this connector.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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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
Show more
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

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Shure SM58 is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
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

yes
Shure SM58 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
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

0
Shure SM58 offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% of microphones.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
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

0
Shure SM58 offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
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

no
Shure SM58 requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not support USB bus power. 86.4% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
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
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

162 mm
Shure SM58 is 162 mm tall, which is shorter than 70.8% of microphones and equal in height to 2.1% of microphones.
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

51 mm
Shure SM58 is 51 mm wide, which is narrower than 71.9% of microphones and equal in width to 3.1% of microphones.
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

51 mm
Shure SM58 is 51 mm thick, which is thinner than 69.5% of microphones and equal in thickness to 3.2% of microphones.
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

298 g
Shure SM58 weighs 298 g, which is lighter than 81.4% of microphones.
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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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

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

yes
Shure SM58 includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
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

yes
Shure SM58 includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
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

no
Shure SM58 does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
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

N/A
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

yes
Shure SM58 is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
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

no
Shure SM58 is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
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

yes
Shure SM58 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
Requires audio interface.
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

yes
Shure SM58 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Requires audio interface.
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 SM58 vs the average microphone

  • 38 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure SM58 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (160 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 SM58 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (160 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.160 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • Supports balanced output
    Shure SM58 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 SM58 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes shock mount
    Shure SM58 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
    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

    Shure SM58 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • 48% lighter
    Shure SM58 is lighter than the average microphone (298 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
    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

    Shure SM58 is lighter than the average microphone (298 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.298 g vs 573 g
  • 21.1% higher user score
    Shure SM58 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.69 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 SM58 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.69 vs 8.000).9.69 vs 8
  • 23 mm shorter body
    Shure SM58 is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
    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

    Shure SM58 is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.162 mm vs 185 mm
  • 38 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure SM58 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (160 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • Supports balanced output
    Shure SM58 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 48% lighter
    Shure SM58 is lighter than the average microphone (298 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
  • 23 mm shorter body
    Shure SM58 is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • Includes shock mount
    Shure SM58 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • 5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Shure SM58 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.
  • 30 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Shure SM58 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
  • No headphone output
    Shure SM58 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    Shure SM58 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Shure SM58 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Shure SM58 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No on-device controls
    Shure SM58 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    Shure SM58 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    Shure SM58 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • 54 older release date
    Shure SM58 is older than the average microphone (1,966 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Shure SM58 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Shure SM58 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 SM58 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    Shure SM58 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 SM58 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No on-device controls
    Shure SM58 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has its control panel or main buttons placed on the device body.
    When it matters: When you prefer the main controls to be reachable directly on the microphone body during use.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure SM58 does not place key controls on the device, the average microphone does. 79.5% of microphones place key controls on the device.
  • No mute function
    Shure SM58 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    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

    Shure SM58 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • 5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
    Shure SM58 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 SM58 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
  • 30 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Shure SM58 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 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 SM58 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.50 Hz vs 20 Hz
  • No USB bus power
    Shure SM58 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 SM58 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    Shure SM58 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    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 SM58 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.

Graphic comparison of Shure SM58 and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Shure SM58?

  • World-standard durability, often described as 'indestructible' or 'built like a tank'
  • Excellent value for the price, providing professional-level performance for roughly $100
  • Tailored vocal response that provides warm, clear sound suitable for a wide range of voices
  • Superior background noise and feedback rejection, making it ideal for loud live stages
  • Integrated pneumatic shock-mount system significantly reduces handling noise
  • Built-in spherical pop filter effectively minimizes wind and breath plosives
  • Highly versatile; while primarily for vocals, it performs well on guitar amps and drums

What customers dislike about Shure SM58?

  • Lacks the high-end detail and depth found in more expensive studio condenser microphones
  • The warm 'presence boost' can sound muffled or muddy on voices that are already very deep or dark
  • Standard model (SM58-LC) lacks an integrated on/off switch, which some users prefer for live use
  • Low sensitivity compared to condenser mics may result in a higher noise floor when used with lower-quality preamps
  • As one of the most popular microphones in the world, it is frequently counterfeited

Expert reviews

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soundguys.com
18/03/2022

The SoundGuys review identifies the Shure SM58 as an incredibly durable industry standard for live vocals, highlighting its tailored 50Hz–15kHz frequency response and integrated pop filter that combat proximity effects and plosives. Its robust metal construction ensures high longevity, offering excellent performance value for its price. Conversely, the review notes the microphone's...Read more

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musicradar.com
20/04/2021

Shure SM58 Review Summary The Shure SM58 is a legendary dynamic vocal microphone that remains an industry staple for live performances, speech, and singing nearly 60 years after its 1966 debut. Designed specifically for handheld vocal applications, it features a ball-shaped grille and an internal pop filter to distance the sound source and minimize unwanted plosive sounds. The...Read more

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mixdownmag.com.au
08/03/2021

The Shure SM58 vocal microphone is highlighted as an unsurpassed industry standard for live stages, celebrated for its legendary, "built like a tank" durability that allows it to survive extreme drops and decades of heavy use. Pros identified in the review include an intuitive frequency response (50Hz – 15kHz) that naturally rolls off sub-bass and high frequencies, eliminating the...Read more

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bestmicrophones.net
26/04/2026

Shure SM58 Review Summary The Shure SM58 is a legendary cardioid dynamic microphone widely recognized as the gold standard for live vocal performance due to its exceptional durability and affordability. Originally introduced in 1966 for television studios, it has evolved into a staple for live stages and home studios alike. Key technical highlights include a frequency response of...Read more

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behindthemixer.com
20/10/2008

The Shure SM58 is a highly durable, unidirectional cardioid dynamic microphone praised by the reviewer as an excellent workhorse for both vocal and instrumental applications. Its core strengths lie in its robust steel mesh head construction and an internal pneumatic shock-mount system, which effectively safeguard the unit against accidental drops and minimize handling noise....Read more

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podcastage.com
25/07/2025

The Shure SM58 Dynamic Microphone is evaluated by reviewer Bandrew Scott as his favorite $100 vocal and instrument microphone, making it a highly recommended addition for any audio studio. During the Podcastage comprehensive test suite, the microphone demonstrates excellent background noise rejection and exceptional versatility when capturing both voiceovers and acoustic guitar...Read more

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thepodcasthost.com
07/09/2020

The Shure SM58 is a legendary, $99 XLR dynamic microphone highly praised for its unmatched durability, making it an excellent choice for creators who travel frequently or record on-the-go face-to-face interviews. Featuring a cardioid polar pattern, it focuses intently on the sound source directly in front of it while actively rejecting unwanted background noise from its back and...Read more

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wired.com
09/12/2025

The ⁠WIRED buying guide highlights top-tier karaoke gear tested by audio experts, focusing heavily on versatile, party-ready speaker options. The Soundcore by Anker Rave 3S earns the title of "Best Karaoke Speaker" due to its rich bass, 200 watts of power, included dual wireless microphones, and an innovative AI vocal remover that strips lyrics from any standard song. However,...Read more

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shure.com
30/11/2016

Overview and Testing Standards The Shure SM58 is a legendary vocal microphone renowned for its exceptional durability and consistent acoustic performance, with quality standards rooted in World War II military specifications. To maintain this reputation, Shure subjects the microphone to rigorous quality audits and destructive testing within its specialized lab. These protocols...Read more

D
delamar.de
25/07/2016

The Shure SM58 is a legendary dynamic vocal microphone designed primarily for live stage performances, offering an excellent price-to-performance ratio at a street price of 109 Euros. It features a robust, matte-finished housing, a well-constructed mesh grille, and a cardioid polar pattern that effectively rejects ambient noise from the sides and rear while allowing some physical...Read more

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sound-check.de
12/03/2026

The Shure SM58 is a legendary dynamic vocal microphone designed primarily for live stage performances, concert touring, and speech applications. The reviewer praises its exceptional road-ready durability, featuring a solid die-cast metal housing and a rugged steel mesh grille built to withstand harsh handling. Key strengths include its cardioid polar pattern, which efficiently...Read more

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jp-popgesang.de
25/07/2016

In this review, vocal coach Jessica Pawlitzki evaluates the iconic Shure SM58, an industry-standard live dynamic vocal microphone marketed worldwide for its durability, feedback resistance, and punchy sound. The official specifications highlight features like a cardioid pickup pattern, a boosted midrange paired with a bass roll-off to slice through band instrumentation, an...Read more

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bonedo.de
27/01/2012

The Shure SM58 is widely recognized as the most famous and widely distributed microphone in the world, maintaining its status as an industry standard since 1966. Designed primarily for vocals, this dynamic cardioid microphone features a distinctive ice-cream-cone silhouette and a robust wire-mesh grille that acts as a protective crumple zone for the internal capsule. The reviewer...Read more

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fr.audiofanzine.com
25/07/2024

This review celebrates the 58th anniversary of the iconic Shure SM58, a classic dynamic cardioid microphone that remains an industry standard for live performance and studio recording. Built on the Unidyne III capsule, it is nearly identical internally to the SM57 but features a larger, rounded, unscrewable mesh grille lined with foam. This specific design acts as a built-in pop...Read more

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studio-microphone.com
Non daté

The Shure SM58 is a legendary, highly reliable cardioid dynamic microphone explicitly designed for vocal performances both on stage and in the studio. Its unidirectional pickup pattern isolates the primary sound source while rejecting background noise, making it highly effective at feedback rejection. It features an internal shock-mount system to absorb mechanical handling...Read more

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guitar.vanlochem.be
11/01/2014

Summary of the Microphone Comparison The author conducted a practical, hands-on comparison of three popular microphones: the Sennheiser e845s, Shure SM57, and Shure SM58, testing them on spoken word, vocals, and ukulele recordings. The Sennheiser e845s proved to be a highly versatile, general-use option with a uniform sound spectrum, earning top marks for speech and live vocals,...Read more

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fr.audiofanzine.com
25/07/2024

The Shure SM58 continues to be celebrated as an affordable and virtually indestructible dynamic microphone staple that has defined live music vocals for 58 years. Reviewers and community members highlight its exceptional roadworthiness, noting that the specially designed grill absorbs shocks perfectly without altering the sound, making it highly reliable for live tracking and...Read more

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bax-shop.nl
14/03/2026

The ⁠Shure SM58 dynamic vocal microphone remains the absolute industry standard for both live stage performances and professional studio applications. A major pro highlighted by users is its incredibly rugged, all-metal construction that makes the microphone virtually indestructible. It features a tailored vocal frequency response ranging from 50 Hz to 15,000 Hz, which adds a...Read more

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shure.com
20/10/2016

Shure SM58 Durability Review Pros and Cons Pros: Exceptional, time-tested physical durability; reliable performance under extreme weather conditions; ability to retain functionality and consistent acoustic response after severe mechanical impacts. Cons: Severe structural damage from extreme trauma can make the casing fall apart or warp, preventing the microphone from fitting into...Read more

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shure.com
19/02/2026

The Shure SM58 is a highly durable dynamic vocal microphone celebrated for its legendary toughness and reliable performance during live shows. Built with military-grade testing, it can handle extreme heat, freezing cold, and salt mist without rusting. It features a built-in shock absorber to stop handling noise, a smart silver grill that blocks harsh popping sounds, and an internal...Read more

Video reviews

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