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Shure SM57 Facts: 118 Specifications & 29 Highlights

Thinking of upgrading your setup? The Shure SM57 brings 118 specs & features to the table — including killer features like general information, dimensions & weight, audio performance & connectivity & interfaces.

73 Points
Shure SM57

Not-So-Humble Badges Only winners wear this.

Highlights 29

No extras. Just what matters.
73 Points

Why is Shure SM57 better than other microphones ?

General Information

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Dimensions & Weight

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Audio Performance

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Connectivity & Interfaces

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Power & Battery

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Build & Design

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Package & Accessories

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Certification & Compliance

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Quick Take

The essentials that matter—nothing extra

A fast snapshot of the Shure SM57, covering its standout specification and what you can expect right out of the box.

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The Shure SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone known for its versatility and durability. It is the go-to choice for capturing rich instrument sounds and delivering unparalleled detail during live performances.

Specifications & Facts 118

Specs measured. Drama avoided.

Is the Shure SM57 worth it? Compare its 118 specs — including the well-loved general information, dimensions & weight, audio performance & connectivity & interfaces — plus price and performance vs other microphones.

General Information 18

Shure SM57 Product Type

What is the product type?

29 Shure SM57 0 Votes Dynamic

62 Microphones in this range Condenser

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Dynamic microphones like the SM57 are known for their durability and versatility, often used for vocals, instruments, and live events.

Defines the basic category of the microphone.

Shure SM57 Intended Use

What is the intended use?

56 Shure SM57 0 Votes Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Instrument, Streaming

62 Microphones in this range Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Instrument, Streaming

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

This versatile microphone is used across many settings, from studio recordings to live broadcasts and streaming.

Describes the primary application area.

Shure SM57 Compatibility

Which devices or platforms are compatible?

57 Shure SM57 0 Votes PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Mixer, Camera

53 Microphones in this range Mixer, Audio Interface, PA System

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Works with a wide range of devices and systems, including personal computers, mobile devices, and professional mixers or cameras.

Lists supported platforms and devices.

Shure SM57 Polar Pattern Type

What is the polar pattern type?

49 Shure SM57 0 Votes Cardioid

59 Microphones in this range Cardioid

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The cardioid pattern minimizes background noise and focuses on capturing sound directly in front, ideal for isolating the source.

Identifies the default pickup pattern.

Shure SM57 Mounting Type

What is the mounting type?

44 Shure SM57 0 Votes Stand, Boom Arm

43 Microphones in this range Clip

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The SM57 can be mounted on a standard microphone stand or boom arm, providing flexibility for studio and live setups.

The typical mounting or support style.

Shure SM57 Year of Release

What year was it released?

0 Shure SM57 0 Votes 1965

74 Microphones in this range 2023

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

First introduced in 1965, the SM57 has become a standard in the music industry, known for its rugged design and exceptional sound clarity.

Indicates when the microphone was launched.

Dimensions & Weight 6

Shure SM57 Width

What is the width?

1.25 inch 0Votes
Shure SM57
2.6 inch (Average)

The microphone’s overall width.

Shure SM57 Height

What is the height?

6.18 inch 0Votes
Shure SM57
5.56 inch (Average)

The microphone’s overall height.

Shure SM57 Weight

What is the weight?

0.63 lbs 0Votes
Shure SM57
0.83 lbs (Average)

The microphone’s physical weight.

Shure SM57 Mounting Thread Size

What is the mounting thread size?

69 Shure SM57 0 Votes 5/8"

74 Microphones in this range 5/8"

The thread size for mounting compatibility.

Shure SM57 Grill Diameter

What is the grill diameter?

2.5 inch 0Votes
Shure SM57
1.57 inch (Average)

The diameter of the protective microphone grill.

Shure SM57 Depth

What is the depth?

1.25 inch 0Votes
Shure SM57
2.8 inch (Average)

The microphone’s overall depth.

Audio Performance 12

Shure SM57 Frequency Response (Min)

What is the minimum frequency response?

40 Hz 0Votes
Shure SM57
38.27 Hz (Average)

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

This range covers most vocal and instrumental frequencies, ensuring clear, full sound from lower bass to high treble.

The lowest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM57 Frequency Response (Max)

What is the maximum frequency response?

15,000 Hz 0Votes
Shure SM57
18,030.24 Hz (Average)

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

A wide frequency response that allows the SM57 to capture high-frequency details without distortion, making it great for both vocals and instruments.

The highest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM57 Sensitivity

What is the sensitivity?

-54.5 dBV/Pa 0Votes
Shure SM57
-42.83 dBV/Pa (Average)

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The sensitivity of -54.5 dBV/Pa is typical for dynamic microphones, ensuring robust sound reproduction.

Output level relative to sound pressure.

Shure SM57 Directionality

What is the directionality?

49 Shure SM57 0 Votes Unidirectional

59 Microphones in this range Unidirectional

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

A unidirectional (cardioid) microphone picks up sound from one direction, making it excellent for focused audio capture, especially in noisy environments.

General pickup orientation.

Shure SM57 Output Impedance

What is the output impedance?

310 ohm 0Votes
Shure SM57
311.38 ohm (Average)

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Impedance of 310 ohms is a common specification for professional dynamic microphones, ensuring compatibility with most audio equipment.

Electrical resistance of the microphone’s output.

Shure SM57 Microphone Type

What is the microphone type?

49 Shure SM57 0 Votes Dynamic

65 Microphones in this range Condenser

Defines the operating principle of the microphone.

Connectivity & Interfaces 10

Shure SM57 Connection Interface

What is the connection interface?

19 Shure SM57 0 Votes XLR

37 Microphones in this range XLR

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

XLR connections are the industry standard for professional microphones, providing balanced audio and minimizing noise interference.

Defines the main interface for connectivity.

Shure SM57 Cable Detachable

Is the cable detachable?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The cable is not detachable, so users should be mindful of the cable length and any possible damage.

Whether the cable can be detached or replaced.

Shure SM57 Phantom Power Support

Does it support phantom power?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

As a dynamic mic, it does not require phantom power, which is typical for condenser microphones.

Whether the mic supports phantom power.

Shure SM57 Audio Output Options

What are the audio output options?

90 Shure SM57 0 Votes Analog

35 Microphones in this range Analog, Balanced

Lists output signal formats available.

Shure SM57 Balanced/Unbalanced Output

What is the output type?

88 Shure SM57 0 Votes Balanced

36 Microphones in this range Balanced

Defines the type of electrical signal output.

Shure SM57 XLR Pin Configuration

What is the XLR pin configuration?

89 Shure SM57 0 Votes Standard

39 Microphones in this range Standard

Specifies XLR wiring configuration.

Power & Battery 5

Shure SM57 Power Source

What is the power source?

91 Shure SM57 0 Votes Passive

37 Microphones in this range Phantom

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The SM57 is powered by the audio equipment it’s connected to, without the need for batteries or external power.

Defines how the microphone is powered.

Shure SM57 Auto Power-Off

Does it have auto power-off?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether the microphone shuts down automatically when idle.

Shure SM57 Replaceable Battery Support

Does it support replaceable batteries?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if batteries can be swapped.

Shure SM57 External Power Supply Compatibility

Is it compatible with an external power supply?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Can the mic run on external AC/DC supply.

Shure SM57 Power Indicator Light

Does it have a power indicator light?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a light shows power/battery status.

Controls & Features 17

Shure SM57 On/Off Switch

Does it include an on/off switch?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Lacks an on/off switch, which is common for professional dynamic microphones, as it relies on the connected audio equipment for operation.

Whether the microphone includes a physical on/off switch.

Shure SM57 Mute Function

Does it have a mute function?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to mute audio directly on the mic.

Shure SM57 Gain Control

Does it have gain control?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to adjust input gain directly.

Shure SM57 Headphone Monitoring

Does it support headphone monitoring?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Direct monitoring via headphone output.

Shure SM57 Monitoring Mix Control

Does it have monitoring mix control?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Lets user adjust mic vs playback audio mix.

Shure SM57 Touch/Motion Controls

Does it support touch/motion controls?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Allows interaction via touch gestures or motion.

Build & Design 17

Shure SM57 Body Material

What is the body material?

90 Shure SM57 0 Votes Metal

36 Microphones in this range Metal

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The durable metal construction ensures long-term reliability and robustness, able to withstand the rigors of both studio and live performance environments.

The main structural material of the microphone body.

Shure SM57 Shock Mount

Is a shock mount included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Includes a shock mount to reduce unwanted vibrations and noise during recording or live performances.

Whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibrations.

Shure SM57 Grill Material

What is the grill material?

88 Shure SM57 0 Votes Steel

34 Microphones in this range Metal

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Steel grill adds to the microphone’s durability and helps protect the internal components from damage during use.

The material of the protective mic grill.

Shure SM57 Internal Shockmount

Is there an internal shockmount for the capsule?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

An internal shockmount absorbs handling noise and vibrations, enhancing the clarity of recordings or live sound.

Capsule isolation that reduces handling noise.

Shure SM57 Finish/Coating

What finish/coating does it have?

89 Shure SM57 0 Votes Matte

32 Microphones in this range Matte

Exterior treatment or surface finish.

Shure SM57 Drop Resistance

Is it drop resistant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if the mic is designed to survive accidental drops.

Package & Accessories 12

Shure SM57 Stand/Tripod

Is a stand/tripod included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The SM57 comes with a stand, making it ready to use straight out of the box for most applications.

Whether a stand or tripod is included in the box.

Shure SM57 Cables

Are cables included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

A high-quality cable is included for immediate use.

Indicates if connecting cables are provided.

Shure SM57 Carrying Case

Is there a carrying case included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a protective carrying case is part of the package.

Shure SM57 Adapters

Are adapters included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

States if adapter(s) are included (e.g., XLR to 3.5mm).

Shure SM57 Mounting Clip

Is a mounting clip included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a clip for attaching to stands/instruments is included.

Shure SM57 Instruction Manual

Is an instruction manual included?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a manual or quick-start guide is included.

Certification & Compliance 7

Shure SM57 Warranty

What is the warranty period?

2 years 0Votes
Shure SM57
2.37 years (Average)

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Comes with a standard 2-year warranty, offering protection against manufacturer defects and ensuring peace of mind with every purchase.

Duration of manufacturer warranty coverage.

Shure SM57 Safety Compliance

Is it safety compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Meets safety standards for professional microphones, ensuring safe usage in various environments.

Indicates adherence to safety regulations.

Shure SM57 Environmental Compliance

Is it environmentally compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

This product is designed to meet environmental standards, contributing to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Compliance with eco/environmental regulations.

Shure SM57 FCC/CE Approval

Is it FCC/CE approved?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Compliant with FCC and CE standards, ensuring that it meets safety and electromagnetic compatibility regulations for use in the U.S. and Europe.

Explicit FCC/CE compliance approval.

Shure SM57 RoHS Compliance

Is it RoHS compliant?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

The SM57 meets RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards, ensuring it's free from harmful materials like lead and mercury.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive compliance.

Shure SM57 Professional Broadcast Certification

Is it broadcast certified?

Yes 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Certified for professional broadcast use, the SM57 is a reliable choice for radio and TV stations, podcasts, and other broadcast settings.

Indicates if the mic meets pro broadcast standards.

Advanced Features 14

Shure SM57 Multi-Pattern Switching

Does it support multi-pattern switching?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Does not support multi-pattern switching, which is typical for most dynamic microphones that specialize in cardioid recording.

Ability to switch between multiple pickup patterns.

Shure SM57 DSP Processing

Does it include DSP processing?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Does not include DSP (Digital Signal Processing), as it's designed to deliver natural sound without added processing.

Built-in digital signal processing for sound shaping.

Shure SM57 AI Noise Cancellation

Does it feature AI noise cancellation?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

No AI-driven noise cancellation, but its cardioid polar pattern inherently minimizes background noise for clearer recordings.

AI-powered suppression of background noise.

Shure SM57 Beamforming Technology

Does it support beamforming?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Lacks beamforming technology, which is usually found in array microphones designed for conferences or advanced sound systems.

Uses mic arrays to focus on sound sources.

Shure SM57 Voice Tracking

Does it include voice tracking?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Does not feature voice tracking technology, which is typically found in smart microphones and advanced recording systems.

Automatically follows speaker’s voice.

Shure SM57 Recording Profiles

Does it have recording profiles?

No 0Votes Shure SM57

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM57
Shure SM57

Does not offer preset recording profiles, focusing on providing a consistent and clear sound for general use.

Predefined sound settings for specific uses.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Shure SM57 Sound Quality

How would you rate the sound quality of this microphone?

Crisp and professional 0Votes
Good and clear 0Votes
Average clarity 0Votes
Distorted and unclear 0Votes

Shure SM57 Noise Handling

How well does this microphone handle background noise?

Blocks out most noise 0Votes
Handles noise fairly well 0Votes
Reduces some noise 0Votes
Picks up everything 0Votes

Shure SM57 Battery Life

How long does the battery last on this microphone?

Excellent — Over 20 hours 0Votes
Long lasting — 10 to 20 hours 0Votes
Decent — 5 to 10 hours 0Votes
Short — 2 to 5 hours 0Votes
Very short — Under 2 hours 0Votes

Shure SM57 Durability

How durable is this microphone based on build and lifespan?

Highly durable — Over 4 years 0Votes
Solid — 2 to 4 years 0Votes
Average — 1 to 2 years 0Votes
Very fragile — Less than 1 year 0Votes

Shure SM57 Weight

How heavy is this microphone?

Ultra-light — Under 150 grams 0Votes
Lightweight — 150 to 300 grams 0Votes
Medium — 300 to 500 grams 0Votes
Heavy — 500 to 800 grams 0Votes
Very heavy — Over 800 grams 0Votes

Shure SM57 Design Appeal

How attractive is the design of this microphone?

Plain and boring 0Votes
Somewhat okay 0Votes
Nice looking 0Votes
Stylish and modern 0Votes

Shure SM57 Pricing

How do you feel about the price of this microphone?

Great value for money 0Votes
Pretty good price 0Votes
Fair deal 0Votes
Kinda pricey 0Votes
Crazy expensive 0Votes

Shure SM57 Sensitivity

How sensitive is this microphone to capturing sound?

Very sensitive — Detects quiet sounds clearly 0Votes
Sensitive — Captures a wide sound range 0Votes
Moderate — Picks up normal voice levels well 0Votes
Low — Needs to be close to sound source 0Votes
Very low — Struggles to capture soft voices 0Votes

Shure SM57 Frequency Response Range

What do you think about the frequency response range of this microphone?

Wide range — 20 Hz to 20 kHz 0Votes
Good range — 30 Hz to 18 kHz 0Votes
Decent range — 40 Hz to 16 kHz 0Votes
Limited range — 50 Hz to 14 kHz 0Votes
Narrow range — Above 60 Hz only 0Votes

Shure SM57 Connectivity

How stable and reliable is the connection of this microphone?

Excellent — Always stable, no dropouts 0Votes
Good — Works smoothly with rare issues 0Votes
Decent — Occasional minor disconnections 0Votes
Weak — Disconnects sometimes 0Votes
Poor — Frequently loses connection 0Votes

Guides 1

Yes, we brought proof.

Articles 1

Shure SM57 Manual

Shure SM57 Manual

shure.com
shure.com

Reviews 0

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Shure
Shure
Shure SM57
Shure SM57
0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions 0

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards 5

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