“One of the most reliable and natural-sounding mics you can buy. Moderately priced too.”
“This mic is amazing for recording snare drums, toms, and amp cabs for live events. Our local venue uses this on the snare drum – sounds perfect! I use an SM57 to record my bass drum, because it picks up the thump amazingly well!”
So here’s what I recommend:
Choose the Shure SM57 where you:
- are recording an amplified instrument with low to mid frequency range
- need the mic for a variety of applications
But – don’t choose the SM57 for high frequency percussion instruments eg cymbals
Is there a better mic match to your music that you should consider?
If you need
- greater feedback rejection (eg high power amplified live performance or recording)
- better high frequency response
- higher end-on sensitivity
…then select the Shure SM 57 Beta instead.
With a more powerful magnet, the Beta 57a delivers improved high frequency response, greater sensitivity, and its supercardioid pattern means better ambient noise and feedback rejection.
Here’s a link to a clear summary table of when to choose which Shure microphones.
Buying Tip: Before making a final decision, have a look at a Shure SM 57 review by an independent reviewer, or by users.
Also, have a look at the Shure SM 57 specs if you are technically minded.
Buying Tip: If you need a vocal mic as well as an instrument mic, a good way to get great value is to buy the package including the Shure SM 57 SM 58 combination.
If the SM57 is the right Shure mic match for your music, buy it here
