In this post, we are reviewing the Shure PG58 and Shure SM58 which are the two great microphones available today for vocals.
Do you want to purchase a microphone that gives you a superb vocal output? Are you in search of the standard microphone for professional use?
Let's look at the specifications of these mics in the table below:
Do you need a microphone with excellent sound quality? Then you are definitely looking for Shure microphones. Among the various Shure mics available, you can get good vocal output with either Shure PG58 or SM58.
A standard microphone with an excellent sound is essential to have an excellent vocal output. PG58 and SM58 are microphones that offer you superior sound and outstanding performance.
Shure PG58 vs SM58: Let's Clear the Smoke!
Build and design
Shure PG58 is a standard microphone with professional quality and excellent output. It has a wireless cable system that enables people to use it freely without any barrier.
The presence of a cardioid polar system in PG58 enables it to perform effectively. The cardioid polar system is responsible for separating than main sound from noise, and it thereby helps to isolate the major source of sound from background distractions.
Cardioid pickup pattern present in Shure SM58 also makes it work more effectively than PG58, thereby giving a noise-free sound output. The cardioid pickup pattern present in SM58 performs better than the one in PG58.
Also, the cardioid polar pattern is responsible for the pick up of sound, especially, sounds that come from the front of the microphone and perhaps sounds from the sides. Shure PG58 also falls in the category of directional microphones.
Shure SM58, on the other hand, is also a directional microphone and is subjected to distance. The proximity of sound goes in a long way in determining the frequency of the microphone.
As a professional cardioid Sennheiser e945 you can use SM58 for a variety of purposes such as backups, vocal leads, karaoke, and for many other studio productions.
The cardioid polar pattern of SM58 also helps it to pick up major sounds and shun other background sounds that can lead to distractions. SM58 is a handling noise and feedback, and it is also durable. This microphone has no switch, unlike many other microphones.
It is, however, vital to note that a microphone can mar or make a production depending on the performance and quality of the microphone. For a successful production, be it karaoke, home studio productions, singing and others, you need a standard microphone.
Good knowledge of the features and qualities of these help you in the selection of a good microphone.
When we talk of outstanding output and excellence performance, both PG58 and SM58 are microphones deserve recognition. PG58 and SM58 will help you achieve a wide range of goals.
Quite many time, people face the challenge of choosing which is better between PG58 and SM58. Both microphones are having amazing qualities that make them a good choice over others.
It is also important that you consider the weight of a microphone before purchasing. Many people prefer a microphone with less-weight because it is much easier to handle than the heavy ones.
PG58 and SM58 weigh differently, PG58 is a little heavier than SM58. Shure PG58 weighs 321 gram and 11.3 oz, while SM58 weighs 289gram and 10.5 oz.
However, despite that, both microphones have outstanding outputs and good performances, some factors can help you distinguish them and choose the one that suits you best.
Sound quality and performance
The sound production is another important feature that you need to consider before you select a microphone. Although both PG58 and SM58 are quite similar in sound production, Shure SM58 produces sound with more clarity. SM58 produces accurate sounds and the distortions are less, unlike PG58.
When we compare PG58 and SM58, the performance of SM58 is much better than that of PG58. When put to environmental and drop tests, both PG58 and SM58 pass this test but when comparing frequency response, sound quality and clarity, handling noise and feedback, SM58 is better than PG58
Other differences that are noticeable in both microphones include impedance, treble, and mid-range.
PG58 sounds brighter in mid-range while Shure SM58 sounds a bit flatter. But you can fix this with some EQ. PG58 has the output impedance of 300 ohms(at 1000 Hz), whereas rated impedance for SM58 is 150Ω (300Ω actual) for connection to microphone inputs.
Similarities of PG58 and SM58
Both PG58 and SM58 have certain similarities, the prominent qualities they share are,
- They are standard and suitable for professional use.
- Ruggedness is another similarity that both PG58 and SM58 have.
- They both have cardioid patterns and helps to isolate the primary source of sound from background noises.
- Quality sound production and excellent feedback.
- PG58 and SM58 are reliable and durable.
Features
Surprisingly, both PG58 and SM58 have fantastic features that will make you purchase the two. However, the highlight of these features helps to get rid of the confusion that sets in when choosing between the two.
It is important that you follow this piece carefully, in order to distinguish and make a better choice between PG58 and SM58.
PG58 has an on/off switch that helps in the proper controlling of the microphone. You can quickly put it off when it is not in use and also put it on for use. SM58 has no control panel, and it works without a switch.
Both PG58 and SM58 are durable and robust. They have excellent performance and give excellent sounds or outputs for a long period.
Pros and Cons
A proper understanding of the pros and cons of mics also helps our decision of which one to choose. Although SM58 has a better output and performance when we compare it with PG58, it is also important that we note its pros and cons.
Shure PG58
Pros
- PG58 is rugged and durable.
- It is versatile and affordable to purchase.
- PG58 has a good sound quality that makes it an excellent choice for both lead and backup vocal performances.
- It has a cardioid polar pattern that enables it to pick up sounds from front and side of the microphone.
- PG58 comes with an on/off switch which aid more natural control.
Cons
- Handling noise is little challenging
Shure SM58
Pros
- It has a rugged construction.
- It has sound reinforcement and produces quality sound.
Cons
- SM58 might not pick up sounds coming from the sides of the microphone.
- SM58 has a proximity effect that is quite disadvantageous.
See our other popular comparisons:
1. Shure SM58 vs. Sennheiser e845 – Live Mic Showdown!
2. Shure Beta 87A vs 87C: Honest Review With Similarities and Differences
3. Shure Beta 58A vs Sennheiser e945: Which Microphone is Better for Live Vocals?
Bottomline
Despite that, both Shure PG58 and SM58 have outstanding features and functions one is always better than the other. The Shure SM58 has an edge over its counterpart due to some reasons.
Although it is a little more expensive than PG58, Shure SM58 is a better choice when selecting a standard microphone. Its ruggedness and durability are unrivaled.
Also, when we consider how best each microphone handles noise, SM58 remains the best option. PG58 picks a lot of noises when you are using it, but SM58 does not pick up any noise like PG58.
Furthermore, because SM58 has been around for a long period, people think it has old technology.
Let me shock you, Shure SM58 still remains one of the best microphones that gives you your desired result you will get to see.
However, when you are considering price, and you need a good microphone for shows and performances, PG58 is an excellent choice.
It is also important to note that for you to get a good sound quality and production from a microphone, avoid buying counterfeit products. Purchase your microphone in an accredited store to get a quality product.