In the tradition of the SM58, the dynamic Beta 58A has become the first choice among singers and professional sound engineers.
The Beta 58A is a dynamic, high-output vocals microphone designed for professional audio amplification and use in the recording studio. The supercardioid polar pattern extends over the entire transmission range and guarantees high, feedback resistant amplifications, maximum isolation from other sound sources and a minimum of off-axis sound. The contoured frequency response is ideal for close-up vocals.
Due to its robust construction, proven shock absorber system, and hardened steel windscreen, its outstanding performance is not compromised even with rough handling. Typical applications of the Beta 58A are lead vocals, backup vocals, and speech.
The Shure Beta 58A dynamic vocal microphone follows in the footsteps of the original industry standard SM58 while also upping the ante in certain respects. Its consistently strong performance and high build quality have earned it a similar go-to status to that enjoyed by its elder brother, whether live or in the studio. The Shure Beta 58A's punchy and transparent sound, shock absorber system, and tough construction have made it yet another favourite among professional musicians worldwide – and for good reason.
When it comes to vocals – whether spoken or sung – the Shure Beta 58A guarantees exceptional intelligibility and transparency across the spectrum. Compared to the SM58, the Shure Beta 58A delivers less high-end roll-off when it comes to proximity effects, so the top end sounds slightly brighter. The neodymium magnet extends the overall frequency response of the mic, slightly boosting the midrange as well as the mic’s overall output signal, and the bass roll-off enhances the presence of lead and backing vocals. In addition, the supercardioid polar pattern ensures lower feedback overall, even though the mic is slightly more sensitive to sounds coming from the rear. Handling noise is minimal thanks to its famous pneumatic shock absorber system and, last but not least, the integrated pop filter greatly reduces plosives and unwanted breathing noises.
Whatever the style – Classical or Hip-Hop, Country or Metal – the Shure Beta 58A will feel right at home. Many professional singers trust it for everything from living room performance to stadium concert, as of course do countless discerning amateurs, given its affordable price. Its overall matched frequency response ensures that the voice is never too coloured and sounds just like it should – with little adjustment at the mixing desk.
The American company Shure began developing microphones during the early 1930s and is one of the pioneers of the audio engineering sector. Models such as the 55 Unidyne - known to many as the "Elvis microphone" - and the SM57 and SM58 which appeared in the mid-1960s are still ubiquitous in live sound production today. They enjoy cult status among musicians and technicians alike. In the 1990s, Shure introduced the first wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems and became a market leader in this field. In addition to microphones, Shure offers a wide range of earphones and headphones for studio and live use, as well as various accessories.
The more the going gets tough, the more the Shure Beta 58A shines. Its near-indestructible construction, which includes a steel mesh grille and enamelled metal body, protect it from the rough-and-tumble of everyday stage use and ensure a long lifespan. At the same time, the integrated pneumatic shock absorber system effectively protects the capsule, reduces the influence of shocks, and dampens mechanical noises and vibrations.
Supercardioid polar pattern
Microphones are more or less sensitive to sounds arriving from different angles, and this directional sensitivity is illustrated by different polar patterns. Singers naturally prefer microphones that focus on their voice and suppress background noise as much as possible. The perfect microphone for this purpose is the supercardioid type. This type derives its name from the conventional cardioid mics. The supercardioid’s directionality is more pronounced than the cardioid’s, which results in a further narrowing of the sound source as well as greater resistance to feedback. In addition, supercardioid mics augment the proximity effect, which can be a plus. Sounds arriving straight in the axis of the diaphragm are favoured, and those coming from the sides are suppressed. However, it should also be noted that supercardioid microphones are more sensitive from directly behind than cardioids.