Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $82
Standard/Professional
$75
$201+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* 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
The Shure Unidyne III SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone is a staple in the world of professional audio and live performances. Renowned for its versatility, this microphone is perfect for both studio recordings and live sound applications. With a cardioid pickup pattern, the SM57 excels at isolating the main sound source while minimizing background noise, making it an excellent choice for capturing vocals, guitar amps, and drums.
The SM57's pneumatic shock-mount system reduces handling noise, ensuring that your recordings are as pristine as possible. Its rugged, durable construction is designed to withstand the rigors of touring and frequent use, a testament to Shure's commitment to quality and reliability. The microphone's tailored frequency response enhances the natural clarity of instruments and vocals, delivering a clean and true sound that professionals trust.
Whether you're an aspiring musician or a seasoned audio engineer, the SM57 offers unparalleled performance and enduring quality that has made it a go-to microphone for decades. Its straightforward design and dependable output make it a favorite in a wide range of audio settings, from home studios to large concert halls.
Key Features:
- Cardioid polar pattern for optimal sound isolation
- Pneumatic shock-mount system for reduced handling noise
- Tailored frequency response for natural sound reproduction
- Durable construction to withstand rough usage
- Versatile application for vocals, instruments, and amplifiers
- Trusted by professionals in various audio settings
Product specs
| Brand | Shure |
| Model | Unidyne III SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone |
| Year | 1970s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Microphones |
| Electronics | Passive |
| Microphone Type | Dynamic |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired |
FAQs
-
What is the primary use of the Shure Unidyne III SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone?
-
The Shure Unidyne III SM57 is primarily used for live sound reinforcement and studio recording, particularly for capturing instruments like snare drums and guitar amplifiers due to its robust build and clear, dynamic sound.
-
How does the cardioid polar pattern of the SM57 affect its performance?
-
The cardioid polar pattern of the SM57 helps to isolate the sound source by rejecting off-axis noise, making it ideal for live performances and studio settings where background noise reduction is important.
-
Is the Shure Unidyne III SM57 suitable for recording vocals?
-
Yes, the SM57 can be used for recording vocals, especially in live settings. It is known for its versatility and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, although some users prefer condenser microphones for studio vocal recordings due to their sensitivity.
-
What makes the Shure Unidyne III SM57 a popular choice for recording instruments?
-
The SM57 is popular for recording instruments because of its durability, clear sound reproduction, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for capturing the nuances of instruments like drums and guitar amps.
-
Does the Shure Unidyne III SM57 require phantom power?
-
No, the SM57 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power, making it easy to use with most audio interfaces and mixers without additional power requirements.
Videos
The Recording Lounge
Shure SM57 vs. Unidyne III (Vintage SM57) Shootout
Reviews
PROS
-
Offers a more open sound with better high-end clarity compared to newer versions
-
Naturally reduces 3k harshness while enhancing low and high frequencies
-
High impedance easily rewired with accessible Shure manuals
-
Exudes durable, old-school American build quality
-
Vintage design with enriched harmonics and less distortion
-
Less compressed sound, enhancing audio detail
CONS
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure Unidyne III SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone.
Comparisons
-
The Beyerdynamic M201 is noted for its smoother high end and flatter response, often favored over the SM57 for certain applications like snare drums.
Source -
The Sennheiser e609 is said to provide more clarity in the low mid-range on guitar cabs, contrasting with the SM57's typical sound profile.
Source -
The Shure SM57 is clearer on amps than the Sennheiser e906, but lacks fullness compared to the Beyerdynamic M88 or MD441.
Source -
The Sennheiser MD441 is deemed superior to the Shure SM7, offering a more unique sound profile.
Source
User experience
Use cases and applications
-
It's suggested that the SM57's presence peak in the upper midrange helps it fit well in mixes, especially for rock and metal guitar tones.
Source -
The SM57 is frequently used in setups with API preamps, known for complementing its sound on electric guitars with minimal EQ adjustments.
Source -
An old Shure SM56 Unidyne III consistently outperforms the newer SM57 on guitar cabs.
Source -
The Shure SM57 is praised for its ability to make guitars fit well into a mix, but lacks the ease of placement featured by the Sennheiser e906.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Removing most of the plastic grille from an SM57 can enhance its performance, although removing the diaphragm's plastic plate alters its characteristic sound.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Shure Dynamic Microphones
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Dynamic Microphones
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-