Bookmarks for video: 00:37 How the audio was recorded 02:08 SM58 Background and history 03:46 Beta58A Background and history 05:37 Microphone specifications 11:41 Frequency response curve comparison 19:36 Differences in use - gain, polar patterns, mic technique. 22:26 Stage Monitor placement 24:02 Professional opinions and conclusion
sir I am confuse the impedance speaker impedance 8 mic impedance 150 di box impedance how to calculate sir please help my English is not perfect but your video is very easy thanks sir
This is by far the best microphone review I have seen. The guy here knows his stuff and knows what details are essential to the sound and functionality. Thank you.
Definitely, a great review and comparison of both microphones. I use both the SM 58 and Beta 58A in live scenarios. Working as sound engineer, Worship and Music Director in my church, I appreciate everything this man has said in this video. Plus, I learned a few things as well. Thank you for your thorough and informed research. Your work is superb and you provide a great service for many of us who search for reliable and professional information. Thanks again.
I know I'm late to the game, but I have watched every single vid I can find about the SM-58 and the Beta 58A and comparisons between the two. This is by far the best of the lot and maybe even the best of mic comparisons in general. I encourage you to make more comparison vids, if you enjoy doing them.
Excellent review well done. While I appreciate the benefits of the Beta 58A in a live sound / vocal environment, as a retired broadcast engineer, I have to say that I still prefer the richer mid to low end response of the SM 58. It will remain my goto microphone for remote broadcasts / podcasts. Thank you once again for an excellent review.
I refer to the SM 7 and not the SM 57. If you believe the 57 and 58 have identical components then take that up with Shure. Whether you think the sound of a 57 and and a 58 on spoken word is the same, the 7 is in another class for spoken word, the proper tool for the job, not a stick mic.
@@alsacrime4806 Ah, well SM7B is different story then :-) of course SM7b is going to be better than SM57/SM58. However SM57 and SM58 are pretty much identical. There are numerous videos on that topic and people generally recommend to use SM57 for instruments and SM58 for spoken word nowadays, from what I gathered. If you take the grill (which consist of foam and acts like a little in-bult pop filter) from SM58 and put it somehow on SM57, you have pretty much the same microphone. Now that doesn't apply to SM Beta 58A, that is a lot different than SM57 and SM58.
so good to hear a beautifully spoken comparison, at a speed i can grasp! (i'm still doing it in small'ish chunks as my concentration span is about as good as a flea's!) and no background music! YAY!! huge thanks in advance of my getting to the end!
GLB Productions would you mind telling me what type of mic cable that would connect the Shure Beta 57A to the M-Audio Air 192-8 interface? My understanding is XLR but the interface input ¼”/TRS combination. Is that correct?
Very informative and well made video. I really enjoyed learning this. I’ve had an 58 for about 20 years and used to sing through it in a band years ago. Never knew all of this information about it, though. Thanks again! 👍🏻
This is one of the best microphone videos I have ever seen. Absolutely wonderful presentation. Unrelated, your accent is really interesting, and I can't place it. Great voice and delivery for teaching. Just wonderful. Thanks.
I expected to skim this and get the details that way, but I ended up so engaged that I just watched all the way through! Excellent, highly educational content.
So in depth. I've bought my Beta 58a a long time ago, and actually carry it with me whenever I go karaoke lol. It has superb handling, and I often times find it the best hand held mic I've used. Almost no noise from handling at all. As a singer who has a lot of lower register, the 58a is also better to cut through as you've said. I'm happy wit the choice, and the price is well worth what I've paid. Since I've started to do more recording stuff, I've prefer to use condensers now, and the 58a just sits in the box. Still one of my favorite pieces of hardware. It just feels solid in the hand.
Your good for informing me personally between the two models SM58 vs SM58A I am convinced with the two models which both products has unquestioned quality. More information next time around please. Thanks...
Bravo Bravo ! Bruno does it again, what a brilliant video. I always learn so much whenever I watch your channel. This was very well illustrated, Thank you sir .
@GLB Productions Wow, thank you so much for your fast response! Have found a kind of "XLR to USB"-cable now on Amazon, I guess I will test this one cause its much cheaper than an audio interface, and I think I will use the mic on my pc not often enough so I will give such ab cable a try....as far as I read such a cable will "boost" the gain a bit, and if it doesn´t work well enough, it´s not a big problem to send it back 🙂 To be honest, I´m still struggling which of the two mics will be better for me....don´t have a chance to test both side by side. I have more a kind of "nose voice" (don´t know if I could say it that way in english *lol*) and have read that the SM58 would be a better choice for those kind of a voice....on the other hand, the S58A Beta has newer technology....but as far as I know there is no version with a switch, so I guess I will purchase the SM58 and hope it´s the right choice.... :-) PS: Sorry for my english, I´m from Germany....I´m just an little "hobby musician"....if you have some time and a bit interest, there are some songs on my channel....where I had to record my voice with a 4-channel-mixing-app on my android phone.... 🙂 Every feedback would be great.....and hey, the Shure mic will be a HUGE improvement for me :-D
Awesome explanation from a singer who has both. You nailed it and helped confirm my preference for my new beta 58a. I have to remain more focused to the mic with the beta but it adds a bit more to my deeper voice. Both are great but you really explained the differences well. I especially love the bit about monitor placement with each- ahhh!!!
A newbie question, Sony RX0 Mark Ii supports audio input via TRS 3.5 mm, can the Sure SM58 A Beta can be directly connected to get a decent quality audio if not what is your recommendations
@@GLBProductions THANKYOU I am Looking for a good Shure / any professional microphone with good studio quality which can be directly connected using TRS 3.5mm To to the camera (without any additional converter or amplifications)
Beta58A = more output. Less handling noise. Hardened grill. Cuts thru better - keeping the vocals upfront in the mix. ( both great ) I had the 58 and Sold it & Upgraded to the 58a.
Never had any handling noise with the SM58... don't know anybody who has, personally. It's not built like a tank just to be oversentive to moving around. Heck, how many lead singers/rock stars swing the thing 'round like a lasso... how many times to they fall or get smashed onto the floor (the mic - not the singer) ?? From my experience, the Beta58 absolutely cuts through in the mix, I agree - especially, in regards for heavy metal and rock or large bands, the clarity is built in - sure. But, its sound fits better into today's electronic (DJ) music world, than the SM58 - no question. However, as any other kind of vocalist (acoustic, jazz, folk, pop, spoken word...) to my ears, the SM58 is the only one of the two which 'connects' audio-wise with the texture of 1960's pop music, for example. And, it's great for standard jazz vocals. In situations like that, I find the Beta58A is way too 'crystaline' and edgier sound for those mediums - as opposed to the warmth and bass response of the SM58.
I use all sorts of different vocal mics. For recording i pretty much use the Neumann u87ai’s. For live, I usually use the sm58’s, most of the time. They cut through mix (always use a hpf) and they sound more natural than the beta 58a in my own opinion. It also has a good frequency response. Both are good sounding mics though. I run music for all different types of genres/bands.
Excellent comparison, this is how product variant comparisons should be, well set out with all the right details which would really matter for future buyers, Thank You for this wonderful video!!
Thanks for watching John. The mic stand idea is a cool one - only thing to remember is that the pattern is 3-dimensional and is very dependent on the angle of the microphone relative to the ground, so the legs would only show the coverage when the mic was at the same angle as the legs themselves 😉
I was in a jam band 20 years ago. I tried singing into an SM57 but no mater how much pleading I did (TURN IT DOWN!) I could never get my voice's volume up over the rest of the garage band. I did some research and found the Beta 57. The neodymium magnet makes a very big difference. With the purchase of the neodymium (ND) mic the next jam went easier for me. I was getting a much better volume. Ever since I have bought ND or condenser mics.
Mr Luse, Alan here! Great tips and great explanation indeed! I've always wondered differences handheld microphones made. You video summed it up very elegantly! Thanks again!
Used a beta58a for years singing in metal bands and it was great when travelling around to random venues where the sound environment was not always ideal
Thanks for this great video! Two little questions: Is it possible to connect the SM58 with a pc with a xlr to 3.5 cable and record some things with for example audacity? And does anyone know if the "head" of the beta (what is it called? Capsule? Mean the round metal thing) would fit also on the sm58? I like the blue stripe, but would prefer the sound of the sm58 I guess... ;-)
You're welcome. To answer your questions: 1. I recommend connecting via an audio interface of some kind eg the Steinberg UR22. If you use an xlr to minijack cable you will likely have difficulty getting a good level in your recording due to the amount of gain required by the microphone. 2. The round metal ball that unscrews is called the grille - the capsule is inside the grille and cannot be easily removed. If you like the blue stripe you can actually use a permanent marker to draw around the grille on the SM58 - I have done this on some of my mics to colour code them 😄.
Very nice video Bruno I am hunting to buying the handheld mic but I am very confused between sennheiser with shure. After I have watch your comparison video now I decided to buy Shure Beta 58A Thank you very much bro.
Excellent Excellent and Excellent review. Very clear and very detailed. I am a male singer and you gave me my final choice for these 2 great mics at reasonable proice. thanks you !!!!!!
The e945 has a similar spec to the Beta58a (Dynamic, supercardioid) so which one is better will likely come down to personal preference and also price.
Thanks Bruno! Very detailed review. I have been considering the Beta 58A for a while but have not bought one yet. I'll have to try one, and decide. A new subscriber from the Philippines.
I ned a mic for flute , hamonica and singing. NOTHING fancy . I'm in between Shure beta a 58 and Sennheiser e945. Had a Shure sm 58 before ( got stolen) , it worked fine but would like to try something a little better .Thanks in advance for any answer.
Both of these models will work fine for the purposes you mentioned, so I suggest trying both and picking the one you prefer. The Sennheiser is significantly more expensive than the Shure.
Great reveiw, i could not think about a better and more complete one for this topic. (Perhaps only one: some other solutions from other manifacturers, but i bet his is topic for another video).
Yes that could definitely be an entire video in itself. The SM58 is the definitive, original live sound vocal mic - with very few exceptions all of the others take inspiration from this design.
I'm old-school - you simply cannot go wrong with 58s for vocals and 57s for instruments. It's all you need for live sound. The minor differences in response are easily tweaked at your board. For the price of one beta plus $20 you can have a 58 and a 57. Nuff said.
For sure - try any modern super or hypercardioid dynamic microphone: Sennheiser e945, Audix OM5, SE Electronics V7 to name a few. Note that these are alternatives and not equivalents 😉
Hello Sir, Recently I bought the Shure SM86. I was using beta 58 a. I feel like SM 86 is more fit with female voice. Beta 58 a stand out thru mix. I may be wrong I feel better on the beta 58 a. Love to hear your thoughts on this. Appreciated.
These are two quite different mics - the SM86 is a cardioid condenser and the Beta58a is a supercardioid dynamic. So it's not surprising that you are hearing a difference. My advice would be to go with whichever mic you feel more comfortable with and sounds better to you and your band or sound engineer.
thanks! You used to mention SM57/58 both can be used as instrument MIC, how about beta58? my home piano has sound level 80dB or more, I tried SM57 a bit too bright.
Just like the SM58, the beta58A is designed as a vocal mic but works well for certain instruments. However, for recording acoustic piano I would use a condenser mic instead.
Hello, I'm late by 3 years, to the party😊.... Excellent review. What a quality of info and demo. Essentially academically superb. Could you do a comparative between the beta 58A and another dynamic microphone with an affordable price range?? Very grateful for your review.
@@GLBProductions I know!! I just wondered how both compare in terms of studio vocal recording... I believe that there's considerable gap in understanding their respective roles. I am doing vocals in studio set up using, now, the Beta, even though it's a stage/live mic. I have been unable to minimise breath sounds (very old, I am, 😊) with condenser microphones. However, the Beta is very rewarding and forgiving. Hence I wondered...but I get your point
Ah yes - I pointed that out because in your original post you wrote that you would like to see the Beta 58A compared to another dynamic microphone. When it comes to recording, I feel that the results are far more important than what microphone is used - condensers are the standard for studio work because of the level of detail they provide, but they are just one of many tools available. If it sounds good use it I say 😄
Thank you sir, great review. I own and use a Samson R11 that i have had for 10 years. It is similar in sound to the SM58 in my opinion, after comparing the two with my voice and other peoples' too. I have used a Sennheiser e835 with good results, as well as the Beta 57A and 58A. They are all different sounding/behaving and that is cool and frustrating sometimes.
Yes - at the end of the day it's about having options. In the early years the entire live sound industry used basically two mics: SM58s for vocals and SM57s for instruments. Today we are spoiled for choice, which is a great thing. Remember that 99% of the audience doesn't know or care what mic you are using - as long as the sound is loud and clear, that's all that matters to them! All the best with your music :)
Good evening, I congratulate you on your channel and your valuable advice! I am a singing enthusiast with a good vocal timbre, and I need some advice for karaoke singing at a good level, using a JBL PartyBox 120 speaker, but with limited ability to adjust the microphone’s equalization. I prefer genres such as Italian singer-songwriters and light music (Pooh, Red Canzian, Antonello Venditti, Francesco De Gregori, Carosone, Gino Paoli, etc.). Would you recommend: Beta 58A (which I already own, but I find it not warm enough and it may make my voice a bit nasal in the mid-highs), SM58 (which seems warmer and truer to my vocal timbre but perhaps less bright), Sennheiser e845, Sennheiser e935, or e945 (which I am not familiar with at all)? Thank you in advance for your reply!
Hello Stefano thanks for the comment 😀If you don't like the Beta 58a, then I suggest trying the SM58 and other SM58-like microphones on the market. Most of these powered speakers will have some sort of treble adjustment which will enable you to add brightness to the mic as needed. The Sennheiser equivalent is the e835, which is a surprisingly good mic for the money.
@@GLBProductions My voice type is a baritone, i sing pop music with some high notes (Luan Santana musics) and my microphone technique focus in maintain the mic in front of mouth, rising the space between when i belt. My principal issue in singing with microphone is the nasal sound that i feel, even when i lower the larynx to make the sound darker and rounder ( But not in the same intensity of classical singing)
Great Job bro! Loved the Video! Really enjoyed the way that you brought info and opinions, mostly the neutrality! I've been looking for info about those mics last few days and this video one of the Bests! In a next time you could also show in pratice, singing something maybe! Again, thanks, awesome video! (Sorry for my poor english) You got a Brazilian Subscriber now!
The Sm58 it’s good, but I have the Pgxd24 with the Beta58a and I Can tell you guys, it is a piece of gold. A work horse in another words not cuts or drops. Very highly recommend....👍🏽
sir I have a problem.I have one condenser mic & other mics are simple dynamic types.so If I on the phontom power for condenser mic, does it will affect my simple mics? because my mixer have only one knob of phantom power for all channels .
What pre amp are you using ? You talk to both mic from such a far distance while still get clear and loud vocal signals . In my case , if I talk such a far from the mic , I end up with a very low signal even though I cranked my preamp to 50 dBs.
That's what you should be hearing - the Beta 58 has a controlled proximity effect for singers who like to sing very close to the mic. Warmer is not always better, especially for live use on very loud stages. As for the price difference, you'll need to ask Shure about that 😉
Sir, I am beginner. I want to record my written poetry professionally. In which my line will go in high tone and will also come in low tone. Tell me such dynamic mic and audio interface. So that I can record and mix later. My room is not sound proof. My total budget is $300. But a shopkeeper told me that you cannot do recording with dynamic mic. Please tell me what should I do. Tell me such a mic and audio interface that I will not regret after buying.
You can definitely record with a dynamic mic! In fact they are often preferable in noisier environments and in untreated rooms because they pick up less environmental noise. But if your budget is only $300 then perhaps consider getting a USB microphone instead - this will mean you do not have to buy a separate interface.
@@GLBProductions Sir. If I take Shure SM58 Mic and Arturia Mini Fuse Audio Interface. So would this setup be good? Can I record and mix poetry in professional quality on this setup? Will there be any problem?
I suggest buying a name-brand USB interface from a company such as Presonus, Steinberg, Zoom, Focusrite, SSL etc. The microphone preamp is as important as the microphone itself when it comes to recording.
Thanks man! 'Newbie sub here, so far pretty cool tutorial with reviews, very educational.. Forgot to comment on some of your vids i watched. Still catchin up..
@@GLBProductions 'doin related things here in the philippines, in electronics & sound systems, cater events & related stuff. It's a Great help for me. Thanks once again, More power to you!
I really noticed the difference at the end when he changed across from the 58 to the 58A. The 58 has a much warmer sound to me. I think I'll stick with the 58. Excellent review though. Gave a much better insight to each microphone.
Bookmarks for video:
00:37 How the audio was recorded
02:08 SM58 Background and history
03:46 Beta58A Background and history
05:37 Microphone specifications
11:41 Frequency response curve comparison
19:36 Differences in use - gain, polar patterns, mic technique.
22:26 Stage Monitor placement
24:02 Professional opinions and conclusion
GLB Productions here I am testing it in a low quality video on my other channel th-cam.com/video/GSNTfXQrV-M/w-d-xo.html
sir I am confuse the impedance speaker impedance 8 mic impedance 150 di box impedance how to calculate sir please help my English is not perfect but your video is very easy thanks sir
That wasn't just a great comparison video; it was just generally a fantastic educational video. I learnt lots. Thank you
You're most welcome Nowthen, glad the video was helpful!
This is by far the best microphone review I have seen. The guy here knows his stuff and knows what details are essential to the sound and functionality. Thank you.
You're welcome Gaden, thanks for watching.
Definitely, a great review and comparison of both microphones. I use both the SM 58 and Beta 58A in live scenarios. Working as sound engineer, Worship and Music Director in my church, I appreciate everything this man has said in this video. Plus, I learned a few things as well. Thank you for your thorough and informed research. Your work is superb and you provide a great service for many of us who search for reliable and professional information. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching! Sounds like you have your hands full if you're both music director as well as sound engineer!
Why not use condenser mics?
You sir are truly a professional. Awesome vid.
Thanks for watching :)
Great comprehensive review. I've always wanted to understand the differences in these 2 mics, thank you
You're welcome Donald :)
10/10 review and comparison! This guy knows his stuff. Thank you for the helpful analysis!
You're welcome, thanks for watching!
This is, hands down, the clearest and most helpful product comparison video that I’ve seen to date. Thank you for making this.
You're welcome, thanks for watching :)
More of these videos please!! Very in depth and instructively!
That will be my pleasure :)
I know I'm late to the game, but I have watched every single vid I can find about the SM-58 and the Beta 58A and comparisons between the two. This is by far the best of the lot and maybe even the best of mic comparisons in general. I encourage you to make more comparison vids, if you enjoy doing them.
Thanks Steve, very glad the video was helpful :)
Excellent review well done. While I appreciate the benefits of the Beta 58A in a live sound / vocal environment, as a retired broadcast engineer, I have to say that I still prefer the richer mid to low end response of the SM 58. It will remain my goto microphone for remote broadcasts / podcasts. Thank you once again for an excellent review.
Yes the SM58 is definitely my choice when it comes to spoken word applications. Thanks for watching!
You both prefer the 58 to the 7 for spoken word. Hm.
@@alsacrime4806 Why not? 58 is pretty much the same as 57, the only difference is that it has a useful grill.
I refer to the SM 7 and not the SM 57.
If you believe the 57 and 58 have identical components then take that up with Shure.
Whether you think the sound of a 57 and and a 58 on spoken word is the same, the 7 is in another class for spoken word, the proper tool for the job, not a stick mic.
@@alsacrime4806 Ah, well SM7B is different story then :-) of course SM7b is going to be better than SM57/SM58.
However SM57 and SM58 are pretty much identical. There are numerous videos on that topic and people generally recommend to use SM57 for instruments and SM58 for spoken word nowadays, from what I gathered. If you take the grill (which consist of foam and acts like a little in-bult pop filter) from SM58 and put it somehow on SM57, you have pretty much the same microphone. Now that doesn't apply to SM Beta 58A, that is a lot different than SM57 and SM58.
so good to hear a beautifully spoken comparison, at a speed i can grasp! (i'm still doing it in small'ish chunks as my concentration span is about as good as a flea's!) and no background music! YAY!! huge thanks in advance of my getting to the end!
Thanks for watching! Hope you made it to the end ;)
@@GLBProductionsi did!! many thanks!
This is one of the best education video at least for me. Thank you
You're welcome!
Even Shure specialists couldn't explain it so better than you. Thank you so much from Brazil!
You're welcome Bruno, thanks for watching!
Very helpful comparison! Your spoken pace is wonderful, giving the listener time to absorb the more detailed info. Thanks!
You're welcome Leslie, glad it was helpful!
GLB Productions would you mind telling me what type of mic cable that would connect the Shure Beta 57A to the M-Audio Air 192-8 interface? My understanding is XLR but the interface input ¼”/TRS combination. Is that correct?
Yes - that combo input connector will accept both XLR and TRS connectors, so just use a normal XLR cable 😊
Very informative and well made video. I really enjoyed learning this. I’ve had an 58 for about 20 years and used to sing through it in a band years ago. Never knew all of this information about it, though. Thanks again! 👍🏻
You're welcome, glad the video was helpful!
This is one of the best microphone videos I have ever seen. Absolutely wonderful presentation. Unrelated, your accent is really interesting, and I can't place it. Great voice and delivery for teaching. Just wonderful. Thanks.
You're most welcome, I enjoyed making this video! Thanks for watching 😊
I expected to skim this and get the details that way, but I ended up so engaged that I just watched all the way through! Excellent, highly educational content.
That's great Harrison, thanks for watching!
You are the master man. I can't thank you enough for your videos. So clear, so informative, always helpful!
Thanks for watching! Please consider supporting me on Patreon if you want to see more videos like this :)
Even several years on this is a satisfyingly good video. Thank you.
You're welcome, thanks for watching :)
As a vocalist for over 20yrs , I found this a highly detailed and informative video. Superb effort. Thanks so much buddy.
Rich
You're welcome, glad the video was helpful!
Thanks again Bruno ! Liked your description and very nice the picture at 29:39 !
Thanks for watching Toni, I appreciate your support :)
So in depth. I've bought my Beta 58a a long time ago, and actually carry it with me whenever I go karaoke lol. It has superb handling, and I often times find it the best hand held mic I've used. Almost no noise from handling at all. As a singer who has a lot of lower register, the 58a is also better to cut through as you've said. I'm happy wit the choice, and the price is well worth what I've paid. Since I've started to do more recording stuff, I've prefer to use condensers now, and the 58a just sits in the box. Still one of my favorite pieces of hardware. It just feels solid in the hand.
You are SOOOOO smart to take your own mic to karaoke (or any stage for that matter)!
Your good for informing me personally between the two models SM58 vs SM58A I am convinced with the two models which both products has unquestioned quality. More information next time around please. Thanks...
Bravo Bravo ! Bruno does it again, what a brilliant video. I always learn so much whenever I watch your channel. This was very well illustrated, Thank you sir .
@GLB Productions Wow, thank you so much for your fast response! Have found a kind of "XLR to USB"-cable now on Amazon, I guess I will test this one cause its much cheaper than an audio interface, and I think I will use the mic on my pc not often enough so I will give such ab cable a try....as far as I read such a cable will "boost" the gain a bit, and if it doesn´t work well enough, it´s not a big problem to send it back 🙂
To be honest, I´m still struggling which of the two mics will be better for me....don´t have a chance to test both side by side. I have more a kind of "nose voice" (don´t know if I could say it that way in english *lol*) and have read that the SM58 would be a better choice for those kind of a voice....on the other hand, the S58A Beta has newer technology....but as far as I know there is no version with a switch, so I guess I will purchase the SM58 and hope it´s the right choice.... :-)
PS: Sorry for my english, I´m from Germany....I´m just an little "hobby musician"....if you have some time and a bit interest, there are some songs on my channel....where I had to record my voice with a 4-channel-mixing-app on my android phone.... 🙂
Every feedback would be great.....and hey, the Shure mic will be a HUGE improvement for me :-D
Awesome explanation from a singer who has both. You nailed it and helped confirm my preference for my new beta 58a. I have to remain more focused to the mic with the beta but it adds a bit more to my deeper voice. Both are great but you really explained the differences well. I especially love the bit about monitor placement with each- ahhh!!!
Glad the video was helpful! 😄
A newbie question,
Sony RX0 Mark Ii supports audio input via TRS 3.5 mm, can the Sure SM58 A Beta can be directly connected to get a decent quality audio if not what is your recommendations
Connecting directly will not provide enough gain - connect via an audio adapter or recorder.
@@GLBProductions THANKYOU
I am Looking for a good Shure / any professional microphone with good studio quality which can be directly connected using TRS 3.5mm To to the camera (without any additional converter or amplifications)
You're welcome! Any of the Rode Videomics or similar mics from other companies will be suitable.
man ohhhhh man....where do you find people that train such as this gentleman!??? Sooooo very indepth. You are the Greatest Bruno!!!!
Beta58A = more output. Less handling noise. Hardened grill. Cuts thru better - keeping the vocals upfront in the mix. ( both great ) I had the 58 and Sold it & Upgraded to the 58a.
So are you satisfied? How’s the performance of beta 58a?
Never had any handling noise with the SM58... don't know anybody who has, personally. It's not built like a tank just to be oversentive to moving around. Heck, how many lead singers/rock stars swing the thing 'round like a lasso... how many times to they fall or get smashed onto the floor (the mic - not the singer) ??
From my experience, the Beta58 absolutely cuts through in the mix, I agree - especially, in regards for heavy metal and rock or large bands, the clarity is built in - sure. But, its sound fits better into today's electronic (DJ) music world, than the SM58 - no question.
However, as any other kind of vocalist (acoustic, jazz, folk, pop, spoken word...) to my ears, the SM58 is the only one of the two which 'connects' audio-wise with the texture of 1960's pop music, for example. And, it's great for standard jazz vocals. In situations like that, I find the Beta58A is way too 'crystaline' and edgier sound for those mediums - as opposed to the warmth and bass response of the SM58.
That surprises me. This sounds much more muffled and dead to me.
This is a really amazing video. Thanks for your hard work on this.
You're welcome, thanks for watching!
Thanks for the elaborate video :) It was a pleasure to go through all of it, you really have a talent for teaching. Cheers
You're welcome Vincente, thanks for watching!
I use all sorts of different vocal mics. For recording i pretty much use the Neumann u87ai’s. For live, I usually use the sm58’s, most of the time. They cut through mix (always use a hpf) and they sound more natural than the beta 58a in my own opinion. It also has a good frequency response. Both are good sounding mics though. I run music for all different types of genres/bands.
Thank You For one of the most intelligent and complete product comparisons I have EVER seen on line. :-)
You're most welcome Andrew, thanks for watching!
Great Job, Bruno! Welcome back.
Thanks!
Once again sir, well done! Enjoy your channel.
Thanks for watching!
One of the best reviews , I have seen ... 👍👍👍👍
Glad you think so, thanks for watching!
Excellent comparison, this is how product variant comparisons should be, well set out with all the right details which would really matter for future buyers, Thank You for this wonderful video!!
You're most welcome Mayank, very glad the video was helpful! 😊
Thanks for the great review! You put a lot into this presentation and it showed and was worth it!
Just a thought... maybe Shure should make a mic stand so the legs are 120° on each side you can line up your 58A's!!!
Thanks for watching John. The mic stand idea is a cool one - only thing to remember is that the pattern is 3-dimensional and is very dependent on the angle of the microphone relative to the ground, so the legs would only show the coverage when the mic was at the same angle as the legs themselves 😉
@@GLBProductions Understood..there would have to a "reference spot" on the stand as to where the mic is being placed.✌♥️👍
Extremely useful Bruno, many thanks. I especially liked the broom handle tip!
You're welcome Alan, I always look forward to your feedback!
Thank’s mate 👍🏼 I requested and I have it
Thank you for sharing this....I always like the details to the genius behind the great pieces of technology that has come forth
So do I, thanks for watching :)
Best review about SM58's. Thanks a lot...
You're welcome Martin!
I was in a jam band 20 years ago. I tried singing into an SM57 but no mater how much pleading I did (TURN IT DOWN!) I could never get my voice's volume up over the rest of the garage band. I did some research and found the Beta 57. The neodymium magnet makes a very big difference. With the purchase of the neodymium (ND) mic the next jam went easier for me. I was getting a much better volume. Ever since I have bought ND or condenser mics.
Thank you Bruno, super broad detailed explanation, your channel is the best in the sound education
You're most welcome, thanks for watching!
Great video as always Bruno. I just acquired the Shure Beta58A. I'll be trying it out at the local pub for a Halloween party.
Very good! If you're coming from an SM58 you should notice a difference.
Very nice video, particularly the discussion on polar pattern.
Thanks Jerome, glad the video was helpful!
Thank You Bruno. One of your best videos.
You'll welcome Ian, I enjoyed making it :)
Thank you very much for your video review about 2 microphones Sm58 and beta58a. I’d leaned a lot from your video.
You're most welcome, glad the video was helpful.
Mr Luse, Alan here! Great tips and great explanation indeed! I've always wondered differences handheld microphones made. You video summed it up very elegantly! Thanks again!
Thanks Alan! Didn't realise you made videos too, have subscribed to your channel :)
Used a beta58a for years singing in metal bands and it was great when travelling around to random venues where the sound environment was not always ideal
Yup, ideal microphone for that type of music 🤘🏻
Really well done video and comparison! Kudos and subscribed!
Full of interesting and useful details...
Thanks for your support :)
Thanks for this great video!
Two little questions: Is it possible to connect the SM58 with a pc with a xlr to 3.5 cable and record some things with for example audacity?
And does anyone know if the "head" of the beta (what is it called? Capsule? Mean the round metal thing) would fit also on the sm58? I like the blue stripe, but would prefer the sound of the sm58 I guess... ;-)
You're welcome. To answer your questions:
1. I recommend connecting via an audio interface of some kind eg the Steinberg UR22. If you use an xlr to minijack cable you will likely have difficulty getting a good level in your recording due to the amount of gain required by the microphone.
2. The round metal ball that unscrews is called the grille - the capsule is inside the grille and cannot be easily removed. If you like the blue stripe you can actually use a permanent marker to draw around the grille on the SM58 - I have done this on some of my mics to colour code them 😄.
I love hearing the backstory of these classics! :)
Yes the history of these mics is part of the history of rock and roll 😊
Very nice video Bruno
I am hunting to buying the handheld mic but I am very confused between sennheiser with shure. After I have watch your comparison video now I decided to buy Shure Beta 58A
Thank you very much bro.
Glad to hear that, remember that you must try the mic before buying it! No video will tell you how the mic sounds with your own voice.
Excellent Excellent and Excellent review. Very clear and very detailed. I am a male singer and you gave me my final choice for these 2 great mics at reasonable proice. thanks you !!!!!!
You're welcome Dinesh!
Wow, awesome video! :) I love your long, descriptive and educational videos!
Yeah I'm definitely a details man. Thanks for watching!
Hello sir,
If u can tell me when u compare Beta 58 a compare to seinheiser E945 which one is better for church use. Please replay. Thanks
The e945 has a similar spec to the Beta58a (Dynamic, supercardioid) so which one is better will likely come down to personal preference and also price.
@@GLBProductions Thanks Much.
You're welcome Thomas!
Thanks Bruno! Very detailed review. I have been considering the Beta 58A for a while but have not bought one yet. I'll have to try one, and decide. A new subscriber from the Philippines.
The most useful comparison ever. Thank you!
You're welcome Igor!
Great informative video. Learned many details.. Thanks lot to you, Sir.
You're welcome!
I ned a mic for flute , hamonica and singing. NOTHING fancy . I'm in between Shure beta a 58 and Sennheiser e945. Had a Shure sm 58 before ( got stolen) , it worked fine but would like to try something a little better .Thanks in advance for any answer.
Both of these models will work fine for the purposes you mentioned, so I suggest trying both and picking the one you prefer. The Sennheiser is significantly more expensive than the Shure.
@@GLBProductions thanks for answering, but Sennheiser is only 20 $ more expensive than the Beta.
I've got Presonus 24c audiointerface connected to PC. Is that setup ok to record singing on DAW with beta mic? 🤔
That setup should work fine.
Great reveiw, i could not think about a better and more complete one for this topic.
(Perhaps only one: some other solutions from other manifacturers, but i bet his is topic for another video).
Yes that could definitely be an entire video in itself. The SM58 is the definitive, original live sound vocal mic - with very few exceptions all of the others take inspiration from this design.
Good afternoon,you explain very well the specs of sm 58 and beta 58a
Thanks Andy.
Great analysis. Covered pretty much everything. Thanks dude.
You're welcome Alan, glad the video was helpful.
Outstanding comparison. Thank you
You're welcome Don, thanks for watching.
GLB Thanks. So much rubbish is going on, on the u-tube, But I always come back here to get 100% true reflection on all products. Thanks B
You're welcome David :)
According to my hearing I feel Studio Mic 58 sounds bolder and more natural. Besides your voice and your explanation are so clean n clear I love it.
Thanks for watching!
Perfect timing for me. I’m debating these two mics along with the 87A.
The Beta 87A is significantly different as it's a condenser. All the best with your decision!
GLB Productions one of each type is the obvious solution 😀
I personally have both the SM58 and SM86 and use them for different types of gigs.
I'm old-school - you simply cannot go wrong with 58s for vocals and 57s for instruments. It's all you need for live sound. The minor differences in response are easily tweaked at your board. For the price of one beta plus $20 you can have a 58 and a 57. Nuff said.
Tioga Fretworks you’re right. Hard to beat the price. For the extra money it’s probably not worth it in my use case.
Excellent reviews outstanding !
Great overview!! 🙂🧡
Anyone knows if there are any viable alternatives to the Beta58a?
For sure - try any modern super or hypercardioid dynamic microphone: Sennheiser e945, Audix OM5, SE Electronics V7 to name a few. Note that these are alternatives and not equivalents 😉
In depth brilliant work.
Amazing work, thanks so much thumbs up for your labor!
You're welcome Alvaro!
Hello Sir,
Recently I bought the Shure SM86. I was using beta 58 a. I feel like SM 86 is more fit with female voice. Beta 58 a stand out thru mix. I may be wrong I feel better on the beta 58 a. Love to hear your thoughts on this. Appreciated.
These are two quite different mics - the SM86 is a cardioid condenser and the Beta58a is a supercardioid dynamic. So it's not surprising that you are hearing a difference. My advice would be to go with whichever mic you feel more comfortable with and sounds better to you and your band or sound engineer.
@@GLBProductions Thanks Much. 🙏
thanks! You used to mention SM57/58 both can be used as instrument MIC, how about beta58? my home piano has sound level 80dB or more, I tried SM57 a bit too bright.
Just like the SM58, the beta58A is designed as a vocal mic but works well for certain instruments. However, for recording acoustic piano I would use a condenser mic instead.
Hello, I'm late by 3 years, to the party😊....
Excellent review. What a quality of info and demo. Essentially academically superb.
Could you do a comparative between the beta 58A and another dynamic microphone with an affordable price range??
Very grateful for your review.
Thanks for watching! Which microphone would you like to see the Beta58A compared to?
I was thinking NT1A Vs Beta 58A?
The Rode NT1A? That is a large diaphragm condenser microphone, very different to the Beta58A 😄
@@GLBProductions I know!! I just wondered how both compare in terms of studio vocal recording...
I believe that there's considerable gap in understanding their respective roles. I am doing vocals in studio set up using, now, the Beta, even though it's a stage/live mic. I have been unable to minimise breath sounds (very old, I am, 😊) with condenser microphones. However, the Beta is very rewarding and forgiving. Hence I wondered...but I get your point
Ah yes - I pointed that out because in your original post you wrote that you would like to see the Beta 58A compared to another dynamic microphone.
When it comes to recording, I feel that the results are far more important than what microphone is used - condensers are the standard for studio work because of the level of detail they provide, but they are just one of many tools available. If it sounds good use it I say 😄
Excellent review and comparison 👍
Thanks for watching!
My SM 58LC is 325g, my BETA 58A is 282g. So there seems to be some variation.
Thank you sir, great review. I own and use a Samson R11 that i have had for 10 years. It is similar in sound to the SM58 in my opinion, after comparing the two with my voice and other peoples' too. I have used a Sennheiser e835 with good results, as well as the Beta 57A and 58A. They are all different sounding/behaving and that is cool and frustrating sometimes.
Yes - at the end of the day it's about having options. In the early years the entire live sound industry used basically two mics: SM58s for vocals and SM57s for instruments. Today we are spoiled for choice, which is a great thing. Remember that 99% of the audience doesn't know or care what mic you are using - as long as the sound is loud and clear, that's all that matters to them! All the best with your music :)
I happen to have the special silver edition sm58
I see - does it sound more... silver? 😄
Good evening, I congratulate you on your channel and your valuable advice!
I am a singing enthusiast with a good vocal timbre, and I need some advice for karaoke singing at a good level, using a JBL PartyBox 120 speaker, but with limited ability to adjust the microphone’s equalization. I prefer genres such as Italian singer-songwriters and light music (Pooh, Red Canzian, Antonello Venditti, Francesco De Gregori, Carosone, Gino Paoli, etc.). Would you recommend: Beta 58A (which I already own, but I find it not warm enough and it may make my voice a bit nasal in the mid-highs), SM58 (which seems warmer and truer to my vocal timbre but perhaps less bright), Sennheiser e845, Sennheiser e935, or e945 (which I am not familiar with at all)?
Thank you in advance for your reply!
Hello Stefano thanks for the comment 😀If you don't like the Beta 58a, then I suggest trying the SM58 and other SM58-like microphones on the market. Most of these powered speakers will have some sort of treble adjustment which will enable you to add brightness to the mic as needed. The Sennheiser equivalent is the e835, which is a surprisingly good mic for the money.
What is the best of this two for enhance lower harmonics of the voice (to make high notes sound rounded instead of thin/mosquito-like)?
That will really depend on your specific voice, style of singing and microphone technique.
@@GLBProductions My voice type is a baritone, i sing pop music with some high notes (Luan Santana musics) and my microphone technique focus in maintain the mic in front of mouth, rising the space between when i belt. My principal issue in singing with microphone is the nasal sound that i feel, even when i lower the larynx to make the sound darker and rounder ( But not in the same intensity of classical singing)
Great Job bro! Loved the Video!
Really enjoyed the way that you brought info and opinions, mostly the neutrality!
I've been looking for info about those mics last few days and this video one of the Bests!
In a next time you could also show in pratice, singing something maybe!
Again, thanks, awesome video!
(Sorry for my poor english) You got a Brazilian Subscriber now!
Thanks for watching my friend!
The Sm58 it’s good, but I have the Pgxd24 with the Beta58a and I Can tell you guys, it is a piece of gold. A work horse in another words not cuts or drops. Very highly recommend....👍🏽
sir I have a problem.I have one condenser mic & other mics are simple dynamic types.so If I on the phontom power for condenser mic, does it will affect my simple mics? because my mixer have only one knob of phantom power for all channels .
No it will not.
I'm already addicted to this channel!! hahahahaha... best explanation that i got for this comparision!! THIS IS MY STUDIO GURU STARTING NOW!...
Great video thank you!
I look forward to the next comparison with the beta 87. when? :)
Thanks for the suggestion :)
hvala na detaljnom objašnjenju.
Nema na čemu! 😄
@@GLBProductions Pozdrav iz Srbije!
What pre amp are you using ? You talk to both mic from such a far distance while still get clear and loud vocal signals . In my case , if I talk such a far from the mic , I end up with a very low signal even though I cranked my preamp to 50 dBs.
This is discussed in the 'how the audio was recorded' section of the video starting at 00:37.
i’ve been back and forth between the 58a and the 58 and this video is what helped me decide to get the beta version
Glad the video was helpful :)
That was super informative. Thanks mate
You're welcome Mathew!
I find (on this video) that the Sm58 is warmer in the bass than the beta 58 ... why the price difference? Thank you for this test.
That's what you should be hearing - the Beta 58 has a controlled proximity effect for singers who like to sing very close to the mic. Warmer is not always better, especially for live use on very loud stages. As for the price difference, you'll need to ask Shure about that 😉
Great information, Sir. Could you also review JBL wireless microphones or wired as compared to Shure SM58 or Beta 58A?
Thanks for the suggestion :)
Thank you.you are very good to show differences.i love the video.
Thanks for watching!
Excellent review!
Sir, I am beginner. I want to record my written poetry professionally. In which my line will go in high tone and will also come in low tone. Tell me such dynamic mic and audio interface. So that I can record and mix later. My room is not sound proof. My total budget is $300. But a shopkeeper told me that you cannot do recording with dynamic mic. Please tell me what should I do. Tell me such a mic and audio interface that I will not regret after buying.
You can definitely record with a dynamic mic! In fact they are often preferable in noisier environments and in untreated rooms because they pick up less environmental noise. But if your budget is only $300 then perhaps consider getting a USB microphone instead - this will mean you do not have to buy a separate interface.
@@GLBProductions Sir. If I take Shure SM58 Mic and Arturia Mini Fuse Audio Interface. So would this setup be good? Can I record and mix poetry in professional quality on this setup? Will there be any problem?
I suggest buying a name-brand USB interface from a company such as Presonus, Steinberg, Zoom, Focusrite, SSL etc. The microphone preamp is as important as the microphone itself when it comes to recording.
Thanks man! 'Newbie sub here, so far pretty cool tutorial with reviews, very educational.. Forgot to comment on some of your vids i watched. Still catchin up..
You're welcome Yuji, and welcome to the channel!
@@GLBProductions yup thank you sir!
@@GLBProductions 'doin related things here in the philippines, in electronics & sound systems, cater events & related stuff. It's a Great help for me. Thanks once again, More power to you!
@@GLBProductions Excellent video presentation, can you do reviews on passive speakers.
@@africangodman6145 Maybe one day ;)
I really noticed the difference at the end when he changed across from the 58 to the 58A. The 58 has a much warmer sound to me. I think I'll stick with the 58. Excellent review though. Gave a much better insight to each microphone.
Thanks for watching Paul - remember that your results may vary and that everyone's voice is different 😊
Same here. I am surprised anyone prefers the beta.