Music & Instruments / Review
Shure SM57 Review: A wired dynamic microphone for focused recording
Our Shure SM57 review covers its cardioid pickup, XLR connection and where placement and available gain matter in a recording setup.
The SM57 is useful for recording instruments with a microphone placed near the sound source. Shure uses a cardioid dynamic design and an XLR connection. If you currently record with a USB microphone, count the audio interface and cable in the cost of changing setups.
Placement is part of the sound
For a guitar speaker or percussion, a small change in distance or angle can alter what the mic picks up. Use a stable stand and leave time to compare placements. Shure’s guide offers starting points, and the room and instrument determine what works in practice.
Who should choose it
It makes sense when you want a reusable wired microphone and already have an interface or mixer with sufficient gain. For quiet speech at a distance, check gain and room noise first. The SM57’s value is in focused recording where placement is under your control.
How we evaluated it
This editorial rating uses the manufacturer’s product documentation and assesses fit for the stated use. It is based on documented features and tradeoffs. We did not test this unit hands-on. See our editorial policy for how we score products.
What works well
- Cardioid dynamic design
- Standard XLR connection
What to consider
- Needs separate interface for computer recording
- Quiet sources may require more gain
At a glance
- Type
- Dynamic
- Polar pattern
- Cardioid
- Connector
- XLR
