The SM57 and SM58 from the Shure brand are probably the two most famous microphones and the most widely used in the world.
The SM58 is generally cited as the standard for vocal recordings in concerts. The SM57, less specific, is very regularly used in the studio to mic guitar amplifiers or snare drums. It is even the microphone officially used for presidential speeches in the United States.
As a result of this fame: you hear a bit of everything and nothing about these two models. Many say they are identical. Others mention major sound differences.
Thus, I decided to write this article to provide you with clear answers to the question “What is the difference between the SM58 and the SM57?” We will also see if, as the rumor suggests, it is possible to transform an SM58 into an SM57.
Comparison between the SM58 and SM57
We must admit, the two dynamic microphones have a number of common points, which gives them a fairly similar sound.
In particular, they both have exactly the same capsule. This is the main reason why many say they are the same microphone.
However, they have not been designed in the same way: as I mentioned in the introduction, the SM58 is more geared towards vocals, while the SM57 is more geared towards instruments.
As a result, the grille of the SM58 has a larger, ball-shaped filter. This will help to reduce plosive consonants (like “p” and “b”), which tend to create “pops” in the sound when pronounced.
The SM57, on the other hand, has a much smaller grille and thus is much closer to the capsule that captures sound vibrations. Therefore, it has a more pronounced proximity effect: the bass will be stronger when the sound source (voice, instrument) is closer to the microphone.
That said, in terms of directivity, both are cardioid and their polar patterns are similar.
Finally, as you can see in the graphs below, the design differences of these two Shure microphones also have a slight impact on frequency response. Indeed, the SM57 has a slight peak in the highs around 5kHz, which gives it a slightly more open sound.
In summary, these are two microphones that are indeed quite similar but not exactly interchangeable.
Can you turn an SM58 into an SM57?
I have often heard the following phrase:
“If you remove the grille from the SM58, well, you get an SM57!”
Stated like that, it may seem like a good idea.
Except that.
Indeed, by removing the grille from the SM58, you will regain some of the proximity effect and the design of the SM57. But the capsule will then be completely exposed!
In other words, it’s the best way to damage your microphone, which will be at the mercy of bumps, falls, and especially saliva splashes if used for singing.
Note that the grilles are not interchangeable: there’s no point in buying an SM57 grille hoping to attach it to an SM58 and thus have two mics for the price of one.
In the end, it’s more of a false good idea. In a studio context, if you are very careful, it might work. But in a concert, in any case, the risk of damaging your equipment is far too high!
So, which one for my Home Studio?
Ideally, you need both.
Indeed, they have neither the same sound nor the same applications.
However, even though they are not expensive models, you sometimes have to choose based on your budget.
If you want to record singing exclusively, then lean towards the SM58. Certainly, it is better known for live concerts. But a number of famous artists (Bono from U2, Björk…) have used it on their studio albums!
That said, for purely home studio use, many prefer the SM57.
First of all, you can easily put a pop filter in front of it, which diminishes the usefulness of the ball-shaped grille of the SM58.
On the other hand, it’s simply a very versatile microphone: vocals, drums (especially for snare), guitar amps, acoustic string instruments… the possibilities are numerous!
The SM57 will therefore be more suitable than the SM58 for home studio use.