Shure SM59 Reviews: 0/5 from 0 Players — Would This Microphone Make Your Setlist?

Shure SM59 Microphone Review: A Classic Dynamic Microphone for Professionals

When it comes to microphones that have earned a place in both professional studios and live sound setups, the Shure SM59 is a name that stands tall. Released back in 1980, this dynamic microphone has earned its reputation for delivering reliable performance across various applications, from recording to live broadcasting. But what makes it special in a crowded market of professional-grade mics? Let’s dive into the details and explore its features, build, and expected performance to help you decide if it’s the right mic for you.

Detailed Specs & Features

The Shure SM59 is a versatile dynamic microphone that caters to a broad range of users, including professionals working in studio, live, and broadcast environments. Aimed at capturing clear, high-quality sound, the microphone boasts a cardioid polar pattern. This means it’s primarily sensitive to sounds from the front, making it a great choice for isolating vocals or instruments in environments with background noise. The cardioid pattern helps reduce the pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, making it ideal for controlled environments like a recording studio or live stage setups.

With a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 15,000 Hz, the SM59 is designed to capture a wide range of sounds, from the deepest bass to the higher frequencies of vocals and instruments. The microphone’s sensitivity is rated at -83 dBV/Pa, which indicates that it’s capable of capturing even the smallest sound nuances, making it suitable for professional audio recording where clarity is key.

In terms of durability, the Shure SM59 features an aluminum body with a matte finish, giving it a robust feel that can handle the rigors of both studio sessions and live events. It also comes with a built-in shock mount to minimize vibrations and handling noise. A pop filter and a windscreen are also included, ensuring that the microphone performs well in various environmental conditions. However, its design does not include water or dust resistance, which is worth considering if you plan on using it in harsher conditions.

Connectivity is straightforward with an XLR connection, which ensures a solid, balanced output. This is crucial for achieving high-quality sound without interference. The microphone doesn’t support phantom power, making it a true dynamic mic that doesn’t require additional power to function. It’s also not compatible with Bluetooth or USB connections, so it’s strictly for wired setups—something to keep in mind if you’re looking for wireless convenience.

User Experience & Performance (Based on Specs)

Design & Build

Shure has designed the SM59 to endure the harsh realities of both studio and live performance settings. The aluminum body with a matte finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, offering durability without adding unnecessary weight. Although it lacks the fancy features of more modern microphones, its no-frills design is focused on delivering solid performance where it matters most. The stand mounting type is compatible with most mic stands, ensuring that setup and positioning are straightforward. While it lacks the flexibility of an adjustable arm, it’s not a dealbreaker for most users in controlled environments.

Performance

The Shure SM59 is a dynamic microphone designed to perform well in a variety of professional audio applications. With a unidirectional pick-up pattern and a low output impedance of 150 ohms, this mic delivers clear, accurate sound with minimal feedback, even in environments where background noise is a concern. Whether you’re recording vocals in a studio or using it for a live broadcast, you can expect great performance in terms of both clarity and noise rejection. Its maximum sound pressure level ensures that it can handle high-volume sound sources without distorting, making it suitable for loud environments like concerts and festivals.

Extra Features

One of the things that stand out with the Shure SM59 is its ability to isolate sound and minimize interference. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of more expensive or feature-heavy microphones, but its hum-compensating coil and shielding against RF interference ensure that your recordings or performances are clean and free from unwanted noise. The built-in shockmount further enhances its ability to handle rough handling during live events, making it a solid choice for stage performances as well as studio recording.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Solid, durable design with a matte finish for professional environments
Cardioid polar pattern for excellent isolation of vocals or instruments
Reliable and clean sound performance for both live and studio use

Cons

No wireless capabilities or Bluetooth support
Lacks some advanced features like onboard controls or app integration

Price & Value for Money

The Shure SM59 is priced at $251.6 at Reverb.com, making it a solid mid-range option for professionals. Given its durable build, quality sound, and reliable performance, the price is justified for users who require a mic for both live performances and studio recordings. However, if you’re looking for more features or a wireless option, you might want to explore higher-end models. But for most people in need of a workhorse mic, the SM59 provides excellent value.

Quick Take

The Shure SM59 is a dependable and durable dynamic microphone that delivers solid performance for studio, live, and broadcast applications. While it lacks some of the high-tech features of modern mics, its cardioid pattern and reliable sound quality make it an excellent choice for professionals in need of a reliable, no-nonsense microphone.

Closing Recommendation

If you’re in the market for a reliable, straightforward microphone that can handle both live and studio environments, the Shure SM59 is well worth considering. While it may not have the flashy features of more expensive models, its performance and build quality stand out in a crowd. Ideal for professionals who need a workhorse mic that delivers clear, accurate sound, the SM59 is a solid investment for anyone serious about their audio setup.