Re: shure sm57 mic
The SM-58 has a similar body, but the mic capsule (diaphragm) is different from the SM-57.
As a result, the frequency response, the tonal pattern it picks up, differs from the 57.
There's a bit more midrange and treble emphasis in the 58, whereas the 57 is less bright on the top.
The Beta 57 is quite a bit hotter (more signal output), due to its' use of the more powerful neodymium magnet.
The frequency response is also wider than the standard 57; it picks up more on the treble and bass.
The pickup pattern differs from the standard 57, as the Beta is more tightly focused (supercardioid).
The advantage here is that due to its' tighter pickup pattern, the Beta rejects feedback better than the previous model SM.
http://shure.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/2374
http://shure.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/230
The SM 57 is the big daddy, and all these other mics are worthy variations. Rare is the moment when a Shure will let you down.
Yes, good on you for adding the info you did.
The SM57 and Beta57 are not the same mic. Even a simple check on Shure's website gives some quick spec's.
SM57 is listed as a "unidirectional" cardioid mic. That could be a bit misleading, but technically it's simply stating that it's pick up pattern is "uni" one direction, towards the obvious front of the mic. It's pattern of pick up is cardioid, so it's a wide pattern, yet good at rejection from the rear to help avoid feedback in live situations. It is a directional mic such that it does not pick up from behind it's pattern.
Frequency response is stated at 40hz to 15Khz. It makes for a great amp/instrument mic as it excels in the midrange, and handles high sound pressure levels/SPL.
The Beta57 is a "Supercardioid" pick up pattern, meaning it picks up in a narrower range/angle compared to the SM57. If you want a bit more focused pick up that rejects a bit more sound pick up while mic'ing your amp or instrument, the Beta could be the one you want.
It also has a slightly extended upper frequency response at 50hz to 16khz. It doesn't pick up as low as the SM57, but offers a bit more brightness/treble pick up.
The SM58 is a decades tested "go to" dynamic element LIVE mic. It can do ok for basic recording, but it's claim to fame is live use as it has a nice presence in the vocal range, and it's built like a tank. It is also listed as a "unidirectional" cardioid pick up pattern. There are better vocal recording mic's, and obviously different flavors for live performance. But the SM58 is a solid live vocal mic, and works well for vocal recording.
Frequency response is 50hz to 15Khz.
The Beta58 is a "super-cardioid" pick up pattern. The "super-cardioid" pick up is a big distinguishing difference between SM and Beta mics.
Thus, it has better rear rejection for live performance.
There are of course other mics that people prefer for live and recording, but the 58 and 57 are a standard to have in your mic kit. And for the hobbyist and home recorder they are great mic's to start from and to create a reference, that way you can then hear what other mics bring to your sound.
I have SM57's for instruments, they are clean and kinda neutral, which is great for recording speaker cabs. I also use a number of SM58's for live work, great mic for that purpose.
I also do voice-over work and my preferred mic for that is the CAD Equitek E100S Supercardioid Condenser mic. Condenser mic's need a power source to their work, and offer more sensitivity if you want or need to pick up the nuances of sound. The CAD is fantastic as a voice over mic, vocal recording mic, and recording non amplified instruments like acoustic guitar, sax, piano, etc..., and studio vocals. They are very reasonably priced for the amazing quality they give, and they are very well constructed. In many areas they rival mic's costing 4 times + more money. They really are at the level of moderately priced Neuman mic's.
If you can afford or are willing to pay about the cost of 3 SM57's, try the CAD Equitek E100S Supercardioid Condenser.
