When it comes to microphones, two names stand out in the world of live sound: the Shure SM57 and the Shure SM58. Both are industry standards, used by musicians, public speakers, and even presidents. But did you know that presidents often opt for the SM57 over the SM58? It’s a curious choice, given that the SM58 is essentially designed for vocal performances. So, what makes the SM57 the go-to microphone for presidents?
A Brief History of the SM57 and SM58
Before diving into the reasons behind the presidential preference, let’s take a brief look at the history of these two iconic microphones. The Shure SM57 was introduced in 1965, initially designed for use on drum kits and guitar amps. Its rugged construction, compact design, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels made it an instant hit among sound engineers.
The Shure SM58, on the other hand, was introduced in 1966, specifically designed for vocal performances. Its cardioid polar pattern, tailored frequency response, and built-in spherical windscreen made it an ideal choice for singers and public speakers.
The Key Differences Between the SM57 and SM58
So, what sets these two microphones apart? The most noticeable difference is the grille design. The SM57 has a smaller, rounded grille, while the SM58 has a larger, spherical grille. This design difference affects the microphones’ frequency response and polar patterns.
The SM57 has a more focused, directional pickup pattern, making it better suited for capturing specific sounds, like drums or guitar amps. Its frequency response is also more neutral, with a flatter curve that allows for a more accurate sound reproduction.
The SM58, with its larger grille and cardioid polar pattern, is more sensitive to sound waves coming from the front, while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. Its frequency response is tailored to emphasize the mid-range frequencies, making it ideal for vocal performances.
Why Presidents Prefer the SM57
Given the SM58’s design focus on vocal performances, it’s surprising that presidents often opt for the SM57. There are several reasons for this:
The SM57 is more versatile. While the SM58 is specifically designed for vocals, the SM57 can handle a broader range of applications, from speeches to press conferences. Its ability to capture a wide range of frequencies makes it an ideal choice for capturing the nuances of the human voice.
The SM57 is more durable. With its rugged construction and compact design, the SM57 can withstand the rigors of constant travel and use. Presidents often have busy schedules, and their microphones need to be able to keep up.
The SM57 provides a more natural sound. The SM57’s flatter frequency response and more directional pickup pattern allow for a more accurate sound reproduction. This is particularly important for presidents, who need to project confidence and authority.
The Art of Presidential Communication
Effective communication is crucial for any president, and the right microphone plays a significant role in conveying their message. A president’s voice is often the most recognizable aspect of their public persona, and the microphone they use can greatly impact how their message is received.
The Importance of Audio Quality
Audio quality is essential for presidential communications. A high-quality microphone ensures that the president’s voice is clear, crisp, and free from distortion. This is particularly important for televised addresses, where the audio quality can make or break the overall viewing experience.
The SM57’s ability to capture a wide range of frequencies and its more natural sound reproduction make it an ideal choice for presidential communications.
The Psychological Impact of Audio Quality
Audio quality can also have a profound psychological impact on the listener. A high-quality microphone can convey confidence, authority, and trustworthiness. These are essential qualities for any president, as they need to inspire confidence in their citizens and project strength on the world stage.
On the other hand, poor audio quality can detract from the president’s message, making them seem less confident or authoritative. This can have serious consequences, as it can undermine the public’s trust in their leader.
Presidential Press Conferences: The Ultimate Test of Audio Quality
Presidential press conferences are the ultimate test of audio quality. With dozens of reporters and cameras present, the president’s microphone needs to be able to handle a wide range of sounds, from the president’s voice to the murmur of the crowd.
The SM57’s ability to reject background noise and focus on the president’s voice makes it an ideal choice for these high-pressure situations.
The SM57 in Action: Presidential Press Conferences
The SM57 has been used in countless presidential press conferences, including those of former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Its performance in these high-stress situations has been impeccable, providing clear, crisp audio that allows the president’s message to shine through.
| President | Press Conference | Microphone Used |
|---|---|---|
| Barack Obama | 2015 White House Press Conference | Shure SM57 |
| Donald Trump | 2017 Joint Press Conference with Japanese PM Shinzo Abe | Shure SM57 |
Conclusion
The Shure SM57 and SM58 are both legendary microphones, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. While the SM58 is an excellent choice for vocal performances, the SM57’s versatility, durability, and natural sound reproduction make it the go-to microphone for presidents.
Whether it’s a televised address or a high-pressure press conference, the SM57 provides the audio quality and reliability that presidents need to convey their message with confidence and authority. So the next time you see a president speaking to the nation, take a closer look at the microphone they’re using – chances are, it’s a trusty SM57.
What is the main difference between the SM57 and SM58 microphones?
The main difference between the SM57 and SM58 microphones is the grille design and its functionality. The SM57 has a small, rounded grille that allows it to be used for instrument miking and public speaking, while the SM58 has a larger, spherical grille that is designed for vocal performance.
While both microphones share similar characteristics, such as their cardioid polar pattern and frequency response, the grille design sets them apart. The SM57’s smaller grille makes it more versatile and suitable for use on instruments, drums, and even guitar amps, whereas the SM58’s larger grille is optimized for capturing the human voice.
Why do many professionals prefer the SM57 over the SM58?
Many professionals prefer the SM57 over the SM58 because of its versatility and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. The SM57 can withstand extremely loud volumes, making it an ideal choice for miking drums, guitar amps, and other high-volume instruments.
Additionally, the SM57’s smaller grille and compact design make it easier to position and maneuver, especially in tight spaces. This, combined with its ability to reject background noise and focus on the desired sound source, makes it a popular choice among sound engineers and professionals in the music industry.
Is the SM57 suitable for vocal performance?
While the SM57 is often associated with instrument miking, it can be used for vocal performance in certain situations. In fact, many singers have used the SM57 for live performances, particularly those who require a more aggressive, in-your-face sound.
However, it’s worth noting that the SM57 may not be the best choice for vocal performance in all situations. The microphone’s bright, aggressive tone may not be suitable for singers who require a smoother, more nuanced sound. In general, the SM58 is a safer bet for vocal performance, but the SM57 can be a good option for those who want a more aggressive sound.
Can I use the SM58 for instrument miking?
While the SM58 is primarily designed for vocal performance, it can be used for instrument miking in a pinch. However, it may not be the best choice for this application due to its larger grille and less aggressive tone.
The SM58’s larger grille makes it more prone to picking up ambient noise and less effective at rejecting background sound. Additionally, its tone may not be as bright and aggressive as the SM57, which can result in a less desirable sound. If you need to mic an instrument, the SM57 is generally a better choice.
What are some common applications for the SM57?
The SM57 is a versatile microphone that can be used in a variety of applications. Some common uses include miking drums, guitar amps, and other instruments, as well as public speaking and live performances.
The SM57 is also commonly used in recording studios to capture the sound of instruments, and it’s often used in combination with other microphones to create a more balanced sound. Its durability and ability to withstand high sound pressure levels make it a popular choice among sound engineers and musicians.
What are some common applications for the SM58?
The SM58 is primarily designed for vocal performance, and it’s commonly used in live performances, public speaking, and broadcasting.
The SM58 is also often used in recording studios to capture the sound of vocals, and it’s a popular choice among singers due to its warm, smooth tone. Its cardioid polar pattern and presence peak make it well-suited for rejecting background noise and focusing on the desired sound source.
Is the SM57 or SM58 better for beginners?
For beginners, the SM58 is often a better choice due to its more forgiving nature and smooth tone. The SM58 is easier to use and requires less technical expertise, making it a great option for those who are new to microphone use.
The SM57, on the other hand, requires a bit more technical know-how and may be more challenging to use for beginners. Its aggressive tone and sensitivity to sound pressure levels make it more suitable for experienced users who know how to get the best out of it.