Shure SM57
External Microphones

SM57

Shure

Released Oct 2009

Durable and versatile dynamic microphone delivering clear sound for spoken word and instruments. The Shure SM57 scores 87/100 based on 12 expert reviews.

Critic Score

8712 reviews

Where to buy

Pros

  • Durable and reliable(7)
  • Versatile(6)
  • Affordable price point(5)
  • Great value(4)
  • Excellent sound quality for spoken word(2)

Cons

  • Not ideal for vocals(3)

12 Critic Reviews

96
GearankJul 2022

The Shure SM57 is an extremely versatile dynamic microphone that excels at recording electric guitar, drums, and aggressive vocals, with unmatched durability and high SPL handling.

95
HighendrecordingOct 2009

The Shure SM57 is described as the workhorse of professional studios, incredibly versatile and durable, representing tremendous value for money.

92
SoundrefJan 2025

The Shure SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone, a staple of studios and live shows around the globe, known for a combination of smooth, reliable sound and near-indestructible build quality.

88
BestmicrophonesMar 2024

The Shure SM57 is a legendary, versatile, and affordable microphone that excels at recording vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, snare drums, and tom drums, making it an indispensable tool for musi...

85
MusicradarApr 2021

The Shure SM57 has been the go-to mic for professionals, amateurs and hobbyists for a generation, offering the perfect blend of reliability, robustness and clear, consistent sound across a range of ap...

85
FraryguitarSep 2024

The Shure SM57, while designed as an instrument mic, works surprisingly well for spoken word with a pop filter, offering excellent sound quality and isolation at an affordable price.

85
Blog BestbuyJul 2023

The Shure SM58 and SM57 are legendary dynamic microphones that have been industry standards for decades, offering exceptional durability and sound quality for both live and studio applications.

85
MasteringMar 2021

The Shure SM57 is a versatile, durable, and affordable dynamic microphone that captures high-quality audio and is commonly used in professional recording studios.

85
Podcastage

The Shure Beta 57a is a supercardioid version of the classic SM57 with better background noise rejection and minor tonal differences.

85
Tomtommag

I've had this mic for 12 years now, it's a trooper. I've dropped it a million times, no one wants to steal it, and because of the head shape it has a pseudo-unidirectional effect, which is helpful wit...

85
MacdrumJan 2023

The Shure SM57 is a versatile mic that can be used for a variety of instruments and vocals.

75
ThepodcasthostJan 2019

The Shure SM57 is a quality mic, but if you're buying new then there's no compelling reason not to opt for the Shure SM58 instead.