Shure SM58 User Manual

1/5
SM58 -- Vocal Microphone
General Description
The Shure SM58 is a unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone for professional vocal use in sound rein
forcement 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. Out
doors or indoors, singing or speech, the SM58 is the overwhelming choice of professionals worldwide.
Features
• Performance tested, industry standard
• Uniform cardioid pick-up pattern for maximum gain before feedback and excellent rejection of off-axis sound
• Tailored frequency response specifically shaped for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass roll off to control
proximity effect
• Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
• Steel-mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction resist wear and abuse
• Effective built in pop-filter reduces undesirable wind and breathe noise
• Furnished with zippered storage bag and break-resistant stand adapter
• On/Off switch (SM58S only)
• Extremely durable under the heaviest use
• Shure quality, ruggedness and reliability
Placement
General Rules for Use
• Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source (such as the talker, singer, or instrument) and away from
unwanted sources.
• Place the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source.
• Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.
• Use only one microphone to pick up a single sound source.
• Use the fewest number of microphones as practical.
• Keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each microphone to its source.
• Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces.
• Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.
• Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.
®

Shure SM58 Specifications

General

Type	Dynamic
Frequency Response	50 Hz to 15 kHz
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Output Impedance	150 ohms
Sensitivity	-54.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV)
Connector	XLR
Weight	298 grams (10.5 oz)

Summary

General Description and Features

General Description

Overview of the SM58 unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone for professional use.

Key Features

Highlights performance, design elements like shockmount, grille, and pop filter, plus durability.

General Rules for Use

Provides essential guidelines for aiming, positioning, and handling the microphone.

Applications and Placement Techniques

Applications and Placement Table

Lists common applications, suggested microphone placement, and resulting tone quality.

Avoiding Unwanted Sound Sources

Guidance on positioning the microphone to minimize unwanted audio interference and feedback.

Proximity Effect Explanation

Details the bass frequency boost at close distances and how it affects vocal sound.

Technical Specifications and Diagrams

Specifications Overview

Details key technical specs like type, frequency response, polar pattern, impedance, and sensitivity.

Wiring Diagram

Illustrates the internal electrical connections and pinout for the microphone.

Performance and Physical Characteristics

Typical Frequency Response Chart

Visual representation of the microphone's sensitivity across various sound frequencies.

Typical Polar Patterns

Diagrams showing the directional sensitivity of the microphone at different frequencies.

Overall Dimensions

Provides the physical measurements of the SM58 microphone.

Furnished Accessories

Lists the accessories included with the SM58 microphone as standard.

Accessories, Parts, and Certifications

Optional Accessories

Lists additional accessories available for purchase to enhance microphone functionality.

Replacement Parts

Lists spare parts available for the SM58 microphone for maintenance or repair.

Certifications and European Representative

Confirms compliance with European directives and identifies the authorized European representative.