Shure

SM57

The Shure SM57 is a rugged, versatile instrument microphone that handles loud sources well, though it is not optimized for vocals.

Summed up from 7 published reviews

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What reviewers like

Rugged metal construction suits demanding live and studio use. 2 3 4 5
Handles loud instruments with minimal distortion and high SPL tolerance. 1 2 3 4
Cardioid pattern rejects background noise and off-axis sound. 2 3 4 6
Effective for guitar amps, drums, brass and close-miked sources. 1 3 4 6

What they don't

Not optimized for vocals; a dedicated vocal microphone suits singing better. 1 2 4 5
Needs careful placement because proximity effect can boost bass. 2 3 7
May lack high-frequency detail or full acoustic-guitar body. 1 3 6
Plosives remain an issue without a windscreen or pop filter. 3 6 7

Best for

Loud instruments, guitar amps, drums and live stage work.

Skip it if

You need a dedicated studio vocal microphone.

Where it fits

use: Music
connection: XLR
room: Some noise
kit: Just the mic

Specs

Connection: XLR
Capsule: Dynamic
Best for: Singing & instruments
Type: Handheld
Boom arm: No
RGB: No

Also worth a look

Questions

Is the Shure SM57 worth it?

The Shure SM57 is a rugged, versatile instrument microphone that handles loud sources well, though it is not optimized for vocals.

What do reviewers like about the Shure SM57?

Rugged metal construction suits demanding live and studio use. Handles loud instruments with minimal distortion and high SPL tolerance. Cardioid pattern rejects background noise and off-axis sound. Effective for guitar amps, drums, brass and close-miked sources.

What are the downsides of the Shure SM57?

Not optimized for vocals; a dedicated vocal microphone suits singing better. Needs careful placement because proximity effect can boost bass. May lack high-frequency detail or full acoustic-guitar body. Plosives remain an issue without a windscreen or pop filter.

Who should buy the Shure SM57?

Loud instruments, guitar amps, drums and live stage work. Skip it if you need a dedicated studio vocal microphone.

Sources

We don't test products ourselves. This page sums up 7 published reviews, read on October 21, 2026; each point above links to the reviews that make it.