Shure SM58
The world's most gigged dynamic mic, now in your home studio
Best for: Podcasters who need a dead-simple, road-proven dynamic mic that handles poor room acoustics
Check price on AmazonThe SM58 is a cardioid dynamic vocal microphone that has been the default choice for live performance since 1966. Its built-in spherical filter minimizes wind and breath plosives, and its tailored response lifts midrange presence exactly where vocals need it. It requires no phantom power and runs on virtually any interface or mixer.
Key features
- Dynamic cardioid XLR, no phantom power needed
- Frequency response 50 Hz to 15 kHz
- Output impedance 300 ohms
- Built-in spherical wind and pop filter
- Weight 298 g, all-metal construction
- Industry-standard clip and stand adapter included
Our take
You will not find a more field-tested vocal mic for the money. The SM58 rejects off-axis noise aggressively, which saves inexperienced podcasters from room reflections destroying their recordings. The caveat is its 15 kHz frequency ceiling - modern condensers go higher and sound airier, so the SM58 can feel slightly rolled off on bright, articulate voices. Use it when your room is untreated or you are mobile.
Pros
- Extremely forgiving of close-talking and plosives
- Near-indestructible build, lifetime warranty on cartridge
- Works with any interface, mixer, or preamp - no fuss
- Consistent off-axis rejection for noisy rooms
Cons
- Frequency response rolls off above 15 kHz - lacks airiness of condensers
- Needs a decent preamp for adequate gain at normal speaking distance
- Designed primarily for vocals, not instruments or acoustic sources
