Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (43)
$339.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$199.00
Amazon
4.8 (2334)
$219.00
Reverb
5.0 (23)
$190.00 New
$114.99 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (69)
$219.00
B&H
5.0 (15)
$219.00
Thomann
4.6 (519)
$190.00
Gear4Music
£155.00

Average Price: $212

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Shure Classic 55sh". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step back in time with the Shure Classic 55sh, a nod to the golden age of music combined with the innovative audio technology of today. This iconic microphone seamlessly merges the classic Unidyne aesthetic with cutting-edge sound engineering, making it a favorite among vintage enthusiasts and modern audiophiles alike. Perfectly suited for vocal performances, the 55sh features a bright, clear high-end frequency response that captures every nuance of your voice up to 15kHz.

The cardioid polar pattern ensures your sound remains front and center, isolating your voice from ambient noise and minimizing room interference. Whether you're in a bustling studio or a live performance venue, this mic's directional focus ensures clarity and presence, letting you shine in any setting.

Key Features:

  • Classic vintage Unidyne design
  • Cardioid dynamic microphone
  • Tailored frequency response for vocals
  • High-end frequency response up to 15kHz
  • Excellent off-axis noise rejection
  • Rugged construction for durability
  • Swivel mount base for easy positioning

Product specs

Brand Shure
Model 55SH Series II Unidyne Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Finish Silver
Year 2004 - 2025
Made In Mexico
Categories Microphones
Electronics Passive
Microphone Type Dynamic
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Shure 55SH Series II microphone?

The Shure 55SH Series II is primarily used for vocals and speech, offering a classic look with modern performance features suitable for live performances and public speaking.

How does the Shure 55SH Series II microphone handle noise?

The Shure 55SH Series II features a shock-mounted cartridge that minimizes stand-transmitted noise, ensuring clearer audio capture in various environments.

What type of polar pattern does the Shure 55SH Series II have?

The Shure 55SH Series II has a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the main sound source while reducing background noise, making it ideal for live performances.

Is the Shure 55SH Series II suitable for instrument recording?

Yes, the Shure 55SH Series II has a frequency response tailored for both vocals and instruments, making it versatile for different recording applications.

What is the construction quality of the Shure 55SH Series II microphone?

The Shure 55SH Series II features a rugged chrome-plated die-cast casing that ensures durability and reliability for regular use in demanding environments.

Tom Buck

Tom Buck

Sound & Style: Shure Unidyne Retro Microphone Showdown

Video thumbnail for Sound & Style: Shure Unidyne Retro Microphone Showdown by Tom Buck

Sound & Style: Shure Unidyne Retro Microphone Showdown

Tom Buck

Tom Buck

Video thumbnail for Shure 55SH-II Dynamic Microphone Key Features -  A Cool, Budget Friendly Live Vocal Microphone by PMTVUK

Shure 55SH-II Dynamic Microphone Key Features - A Cool, Budget Friendly Live Vocal Microphone

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Shure 55SH Microphone Review by Fresh and Felicia

Shure 55SH Microphone Review

Fresh and Felicia

Fresh and Felicia

Video thumbnail for The ELVIS Mic (Shure 55SH series ii) unboxing + sound test by Moss and Dandy Music

The ELVIS Mic (Shure 55SH series ii) unboxing + sound test

Moss and Dandy Music

Moss and Dandy Music

Video thumbnail for Shure 55SH Series II 🎙 Dynamic Microphone Unboxing by Louis Houng

Shure 55SH Series II 🎙 Dynamic Microphone Unboxing

Louis Houng

Louis Houng

Video thumbnail for Shure 55SH II Original or Fake? BEWARE! by ReeChannel

Shure 55SH II Original or Fake? BEWARE!

ReeChannel

ReeChannel

Reviews

PROS

  • Clear and full sound, enhances vocal presence

  • Stylish vintage design, reminiscent of classic performances

  • Sturdy build, withstands live performances

  • Handles high volume without distortion or feedback

  • Ideal for video shoots, live theatre, and band gigs

  • Enhances deep voices, adds different frequencies to tone

  • Great cardioid pattern allows duet performances

  • Consistent sound quality similar to SM58 but with vintage flair

  • Affordable option for vintage aesthetic and quality sound

CONS

  • Sound may be overly directional for some users

  • Durability issues reported, potential for breakage

  • Mixed experiences with customer support and product warranty

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure Classic 55sh.

Comparisons

  • Users note that the Super 55 features a modified Beta 58A cartridge, suggesting improved sound quality over the 55SH, but the SM58 remains the standard for clarity.

    Source
  • The Telefunken M80 is noted for its condenser-like sound and strong vocal presence, making it a contender against the 55SH for certain vocal styles.

    Source
  • Super 55 reportedly has more "oomph" than the 55SH, suggesting a stronger output in live settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the 55SH report needing extensive EQ adjustments to achieve satisfactory audio quality, indicating potential setup challenges for optimal sound.

    Source
  • Some users mistakenly use the 55SH as a top-address mic, impacting sound quality due to its side-address design.

    Source
  • Some users report significant feedback issues with the Super 55, regardless of handling or positioning, potentially affecting live performance quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Shure 55SH requires a mic stand extender for common stands due to its unique design.

    Source
  • Cupping the 55SH transforms it into an omni mic, increasing feedback risk due to blocked vents altering its polar pattern.

    Source

Build quality

  • The 55SH lacks internal shock mounting, unlike the SM58, potentially affecting handling noise.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 55SH is favored for its aesthetic appeal and sound in vintage rock, blues, jazz, and Americana acts.

    Source
  • For the 55SH, placing foldback speakers directly behind it is ideal, while the Super 55 requires speakers slightly to one side, behind the mic.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paolo Alpiani uses Shure Classic 55sh

Paolo Alpiani

Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

Paolo Alpiani uses the Shure Classic 55sh as his main microphone for both live performances and studio recordings, as shared on the Chiamata Urgente Facebook page.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Shure Classic 55sh, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Mooer Hustle Drive
Mooer Hustle Drive Overdrive Effects Pedals
1
Mooer Black Secret
Mooer Black Secret Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Boss RC-3 Loop Station
Boss RC-3 Loop Station Looper Effects Pedals
1
Gibson SG Standard
Gibson SG Standard Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Fender Jazzmaster
Fender Jazzmaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase Music Software
1
Mooer Trelicopter
Mooer Trelicopter Tremolo Effects Pedals
1
Fender Hot Rod Deluxe III
Fender Hot Rod Deluxe III Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
Boss CE-2 Chorus
Boss CE-2 Chorus Chorus Effects Pedals
1

More Shure Dynamic Microphones

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    X
    xug

    Gear IQ 104