Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (15)
$85.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$85.00
Reverb
$22.50 New
$30.00 Used
B&H
$90.00 $83.00 $7.00 · All time low
Thomann
4.7 (59)
$92.00 $91.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $66

Budget/Beginner

$75

$201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Shure PGA56". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Shure PGA56 is your go-to dynamic microphone for capturing the raw energy of snare drums, toms, and percussion instruments. Part of the renowned PG Alta Series, it's engineered for musicians who need reliable performance on stage or in the studio. The cardioid polar pattern is a standout feature, allowing you to focus on the sound you want while minimizing unwanted background noise. With a frequency response of 50 to 15,000 Hz, this microphone ensures that your instruments' natural sound is faithfully reproduced, from deep lows to crisp highs.

Housed in a durable metal casing, the PGA56 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and constant studio use. Its sleek black color adds a touch of professionalism to any setup, making it a stylish yet functional addition to your gear collection. The package includes a 4.5-meter XLR cable, a drum clip for easy mounting, and a protective bag for convenient transport and storage. Whether you're jamming in your garage or performing on stage, the Shure PGA56 delivers the clarity and reliability you need to sound your best.

Key Features:

  • PG Alta Series dynamic microphone
  • Ideal for snare drums, toms, and percussion
  • Cardioid polar pattern for focused sound capture
  • Frequency response: 50 - 15,000 Hz
  • Impedance: 200 Ohm
  • Sensitivity at 1 kHz: -57 dBV/Pa (1.45 mV)
  • Durable metal housing in black
  • Includes 4.5 m XLR cable, drum clip, and bag

Owner's manual

Shure PGA56 User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type Dynamic
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Response 50Hz-15kHz
Output Impedance 200 ohms
Connector XLR
Weight 0.63 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Shure PGA56 suitable for miking snare drums and toms?

Yes, the Shure PGA56 is specifically designed for close miking snare drums, toms, and other percussion instruments, making it an excellent choice for these applications.

Does the Shure PGA56 require phantom power?

No, the Shure PGA56 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate.

What is the polar pattern of the Shure PGA56 and how does it affect sound capture?

The Shure PGA56 features a cardioid polar pattern, which effectively isolates the sound source and minimizes background noise, making it ideal for live performances and studio recording.

How does the swivel joint and quick-release latch benefit the Shure PGA56?

The swivel joint and quick-release latch allow for easy and precise positioning of the microphone on drums, facilitating quick setup and adjustments during performances or recording sessions.

What is included with the Shure PGA56 microphone?

The Shure PGA56 comes with a drum mount, zipper pouch, and user guide, providing everything needed for immediate setup and protection of the microphone.

Andrew Rooney Drums

Andrew Rooney Drums

Snare Mic Shootout PG56 vs SM57 (Blind Test)

Video thumbnail for Snare Mic Shootout PG56 vs SM57 (Blind Test) by Andrew Rooney Drums

Snare Mic Shootout PG56 vs SM57 (Blind Test)

Andrew Rooney Drums

Andrew Rooney Drums

Video thumbnail for Hear what the Shure PG ALTA PGADrumKit5 sounds like! by Shure Performance & Production

Hear what the Shure PG ALTA PGADrumKit5 sounds like!

Shure Performance & Production

Shure Performance & Production

Video thumbnail for Shure PGA Drum Kit 6 Microphones Overview - The Best Drum Mic Kit Ever? by PMTVUK

Shure PGA Drum Kit 6 Microphones Overview - The Best Drum Mic Kit Ever?

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Snare Mic Comparison (sE, Telefunken, Shure, Beyerdynamic, AKG) by GearHeadz101

Snare Mic Comparison (sE, Telefunken, Shure, Beyerdynamic, AKG)

GearHeadz101

GearHeadz101

Video thumbnail for Shure-PGA56 by China Som

Shure-PGA56

China Som

China Som

Reviews

PROS

  • Cost-effective for novice musicians

  • Good sound quality enhances beginner success

  • Quality clamp allows easy removal from drum kits

  • Superb sound and craftsmanship

  • Natural sound, requires less EQ adjustment compared to competitors

  • Durable all-metal construction

CONS

  • XLR cable quality could be better

  • Bulky size may hinder microphone placement depending on drum setup

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure PGA56.

Comparisons

  • The Shure PGA56 has a different diaphragm position compared to the SM57, affecting its proximity effect and resulting in varied low-end frequency response.

    Source
  • The PGA56 is often viewed as a budget alternative to the SM57, but users mention it as a "cut-rate" kick mic compared to industry standards.

    Source
  • The PGA56 is often replaced by the SM57 among users seeking better versatility and higher quality in dynamic mic applications.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PGA56's design places the capsule further from the screen, impacting its frequency pickup, particularly in low-mid and high-end frequencies.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Correct mic placement is vital; the PGA56's diaphragm position means it needs careful positioning to match the SM57's sound quality and avoid proximity effect issues.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • A top snare mic setup about an inch off the head facing the drum center can reduce unwanted proximity effect, providing a more natural sound.

    Source
  • Owners have found the PGA56 suitable for floor toms when prioritizing budget, though many consider other mics like the Beta52 or Audix D6 for better low-end.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An owner acquired the PGA56 for $30 from a pawn shop, indicating its appeal as a low-cost option for less critical applications.

    Source

User experience

  • The PGA56 is frequently used in less prominent roles due to its affordability and perceived limitations compared to more established models.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
dbm_productions

Pretty decent

Works for the price. Tough enough to take a few hits. Would like to try on other applications.

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 PGA56, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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