Shure 520DX "Green Bullet"

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$122.00 to $149.00 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (42)

1 Critic Review

7 Reviews

Find out who is using Shure 520DX

56 wishlisted

140 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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5.0 (19)

$149.00

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5.0 (15)

$149.00

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4.8 (502)

$149.00

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5.0 (10)

$138.80 38 available New

$122.22 7 available Used

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4.0 (61)

$149.00

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4.7 (3)

$149.00

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4.8 (156)

$122.00

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£136.00

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$149.00

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Average Price: $142

Standard/Professional

$75

$201+

Price Tier

In the Dynamic Microphones category, Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Shure 520DX "Green Bullet"". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Shure 520DX, affectionately known as the "Green Bullet," is a dynamic microphone that blends tradition with modernity. It carries forward the legacy of the 520D, adored by harmonica players for its signature Blues Harp sound. Its compact size and ergonomic shape make it the perfect fit between the harmonica and the hand. But the 520DX isn't limited to just harmonicas, it's also a splendid vocal microphone. Just take a look at H.P. Baxxter from "Scooter," who consistently uses this model for live performances, not just in music videos.

With its omnidirectional polar pattern, the 520DX effortlessly picks up sound from all directions, making it ideal for a range of musical situations. One standout feature of this microphone is the volume control, which can be adjusted to suit any musical scenario, offering immense flexibility to the performer.

Key Features:

Perfect for harmonica pickup
Omnidirectional polar pattern
Volume control for adaptable performance
Frequency range: 100 - 5,000 Hz
94 dB SPL
Noise Sensitivity: -38.0 dBV / Pa (13 mV)
Includes 6 m connection cable unbalanced 6.3 mm jack

Product specs

Microphone Type	Dynamic
Polar Pattern	Omnidirectional
Frequency Response	100Hz-5kHz
Output Impedance	1k ohm
Connector	1/4"
Weight	1.62 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" microphone?: The Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" microphone is primarily designed for blues harmonica players, offering a distinctive sound with its omnidirectional dynamic element, making it ideal for live performances.
Does the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" have a volume control feature?: Yes, the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" features a built-in volume control knob, allowing users to adjust the output level easily during performances.
What kind of connector does the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" use?: The Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" microphone uses a standard 1/4" connector, which is compatible with most amplifiers and PA systems.
What is the frequency response range of the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" microphone?: The Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" microphone has a frequency response range of 100Hz to 5kHz, which is tailored for capturing the rich tones of a harmonica.
Is the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" suitable for other instruments besides harmonica?: While the Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" is optimized for harmonica, its unique sound characteristics can also be used creatively for other instruments, though it may not capture the full frequency range of more versatile microphones.

Videos

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PMTVUK

Shure 520DX Green Bullet Microphone - How Does It Sound With Vocals?

PMTVUK

SHURE - GREEN BULLET HARMONICA MIC - 520DX

Easy Music Center

Stories from the Shure Archives: The Green Bullet Harmonica Microphone

Shure

Shure 520 DX / Green Bullet - Review

aprendearmonica

Review: Shure 520DX Bullet Harmonica Microphone

Dwayne Martin Harmonica Player

Reviews

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PROS

Delivers a warm, darker tone ideal for Chicago blues
Versatile: works well for vocals, harmonica, and even percussive sounds
Unique lo-fi character enhances recordings and live performances
High-quality build, durable and reliable
Offers easy attachment to mic stands
Built-in volume control for on-the-fly adjustments
Compatible with various musical styles and instruments
Lightweight and portable with a simple cable connection
Provides a vintage sound with highs rolled off
Impervious to damage, great for touring

CONS

Requires significant pre-amp gain due to low output
Built-in volume control may be tricky to manage live without sound engineer
Some noise present, though it can add character for certain uses
Lacks a shock mount, necessitating additional purchase for some setups
Heavier than some may expect (about 700g)

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure 520DX "Green Bullet".

Setup and maintenance

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Rewiring the Green Bullet for low impedance output and XLR connection resolves volume issues when plugged into mixers.
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Some mixers have Hi-Z 1/4" inputs, which can accommodate the Green Bullet without additional equipment, potentially solving volume issues.
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Features and functionality

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The built-in unbalanced quarter-inch cable is designed for high impedance, affecting tone and volume when connected to low impedance inputs.
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The Radial ProDI passive DI has a higher input impedance of 140k ohms, making it suitable for the Green Bullet without requiring additional devices.
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Use cases and applications

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While primarily marketed as a harmonica mic, it's noted for a unique bluesy vocal sound when paired with a guitar amp.
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The Green Bullet can be effectively used with a buffered guitar pedal before a passive DI to achieve lower output impedance.
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Mods and upgrades

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An active DI box can enhance volume by connecting the mic to the mixer’s mic input, leveraging the mixer's gain capabilities.
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The Shure A95U Line Matching Transformer is recommended for optimal impedance matching without rewiring the Green Bullet.
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User experience

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Users find passive Radial DI boxes sufficient for connecting the Green Bullet, with no noticeable performance issues compared to other DIs.
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Comparisons

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Old Peavey amps are favored by some users for enhancing the Green Bullet's sound with a bit of drive.
Source

Critic Reviews

Shure: 520DX ?Green Bullet? mic | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" mic is a delightful tool for creative sound exploration. Designed for harmonica players, it offers a unique "midrange goodness" that can be repurposed for vocals and drums, providing a distinct, lo-fi yet clear sound. Its omnidirectional nature allows for close mic techniques without proximity effects, while its ability to produce a "furry" distortion adds character. However, its peaky transients, especially on drums, can be challenging to mix. Despite this, the reviewer finds it charmingly effective and enjoyable, recommending it for its fun and distinctive sonic qualities.

positive

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 42 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

tothemoon

almost 4 years ago

Great

Good vintage sound with the highs rolled off. Fits perfectly in vocal cradle as well.

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

marcussingletary

247

about 6 years ago

"The Green Bullet"

Marcus Singletary uses the Shure "Green Bullet" for his harmonica excursions. He says, "I fantasized about it when I was young. I was able to get my hands on one much later. For those into Little Walter, Paul Butterfield, Canned Heat, and Charlie Musselwhite, It rocks."

xaqary

5455

over 9 years ago

Not bad, but not my favorite model.

It pretty much does what it says on the tin. Nasal, honky, sometimes telephonic, type sound on vocals, etc. I don't play harmonica so I can't speak to it's strengths in that department. I use this mic for effect and color. I have another from the 60's (?) I like better but I'll have to date it before I add it.

axemurder

172

over 9 years ago

Sure Bullet Mic

I use this for distorted vocals on all my projects. Bullhorn sound is too easy to get. It's also impervious to damage having survived several tours and records.