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To answer this question, you have to know what the subtle differences between the SM58 and the Beta58a. Both are rugged built microphones by a trusted company. For that reason, you’ve probably noticed that most of your local venues providing PA systems are outfitted with the SM58 (the less expensive model). So which microphone should you purchase? Let’s look at the differences:
- 1. Polar pattern
- 2. Frequency response
- 3. Output level
- 4. Handling noise
- 5. The grille
Once you understand these differences, you’ll be able to decide which one suits you best. So let’s launch into it!
Polar Pattern
The SM58 has a cardioid pattern while the Beta has a supercardioid pattern. Both mics are designed to pick up sound from the front but the Beta 58a rejects sound from the sides best. This could be important if you’re band produces a lot of stage noise or if you typically have to stand fairly close to another “noise making” bandmate. In this event, the Beta 58a is the better bet as it won’t pick up as much of the sound you don’t want to hear and will be less susceptible to feedback when placed correctly on stage. Speaking of feedback, if you hold your mic while singing, keep from pointing it at a monitor or speaker.
Frequency Response
The SM58’s low end and high end response is less than the Beta 58A. That difference may not matter much to some singers so this is a tricky one. You’ll need to take into account the qualities of your own voice and how you sing. Do you sing in a higher, or lower register? Do you sing in falsetto a lot? You might need the higher end that the Beta 58A offers. But most people are served well with either mic and, when it comes down to it, you might not be able to hear a difference in how your voice is projected with your band blowing the doors off of a venue and competing with sweet, sweet crooning you’re laying down. If you’re super concerned about this, find someone to borrow both mics from and record yourself singing into each of them (in the same environment). Only then will you be able to listen objectively and decide, subjectively, which mic produces the sound that you love best.
Output Level
The magnet in the Beta 58A has greater sensitivity by 4dBs and will give you higher output than the SM58. That said, louder is not always better. If you’re in a metal band and growl, belt or scream lyrics, you might want to choose the SM58 instead of the hotter Beta 58A. Using an SM58 might actually make it easier for the sound engineer to manage your volume through the mains.
Handling Noise
This is an easy one. The Beta 58A employs a better shock mount system that cuts down on handling noise. I’ve performed with each of these mics and, because I’m always right on the mic, I tend to bump into the grille frequently. But I’ve never noticed any undesirable noise when I listen to play back of live performances. I suppose that in a more subdued, formal concert environment, one might be able to hear errant noises. But when you front a rock band, both the SM58 and the Beta perform well. That said, I leave the mic in the stand 99% of the time because I also play guitar.
If you hold your mic and tend to move about on stage tons, handling noise becomes a bigger issue. Do you hold your mic while singing? If your answer is yes, go with the Beta.
The Grille
The Beta 58A is made of a steel hardened grille which makes it more dent resistant. That could be important if you’re rough on your equipment. If you use venue PA systems, you’re sure to have come across mics with grilles that are bent all to hell. There’s a weird mentality out there that, if it’s not your equipment, you can beat it up to your hearts content. Not cool people. Be a goodie and be respectful. And while you’re at it, please get your beer off of my amp before I freak out. But I digress…
It’s worth noting that Shure does sell replacement grilles at a reasonable price.
So those are the five major differences between the SM58 and the Beta 58a. So which one you you invest your hard earned gig money in? Knowing what you know about the mics, it all depends on you.
What kind of singer are you? Think about the tone/timbre of your voice. Do you belt it out? Is your voice deeper or higher? If you sing like Barry White, you may benefit from the extended frequency response of the Beta. Also, if you sound like Barry White, I want to know you!
Do you hold the mic in your hand or leave it on a stand?
What kind of music do you sing and how loud is your band on stage?
Answering these questions should help you decide which mic is for you. And yes, there are a billion other microphones out there but I couldn’t possibly cover all of those mics in this one blog post.
One last really big thing…
Owning your own mic is just the start. Once you’ve gotten it, you MUST practice with it. A great mic is the “tool of your trade.” It’s what allows people to receive your message. Consider doing these two things:
- Record yourself singing solo into your mic. Sing into it at various distances from right on the grille to 10” away. How far away from the mic can you be before volume drops off? Do you notice a change in the quality of the sound reproduced. Most mics have some level of “proximity effect” that may make your voice sound deeper, boomier or muddier the closer you get to the grille. Do you like that effect? Use it. Do you hate that effect? Then, stay out of that zone. It’s also good to figure out how far off to the side of the mic you can go before your volume drops off. Once you figure out where these limits are, you now know what the size of your sand box is. Play with it!
- Record yourself singing with your band and listen back. Same as above, you’re trying to figure out how far afield you can go before your band’s volume kicks you out of the mix. When you understand these nuances, you can use your mic’s characteristics to create more dynamics and that will only enhance your performance and make you sound great.
So yes, get your own mic. Then, make sure you learn how to use it. Have a ton of fun!
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