Most of you are probably familiar with the iconic SM58, but perhaps less of you are aware of the Beta 58A. The series originally came out in the 80s, before Shure decided to make some slight updates and alterations to the design around 1996.
Final verdict
The Beta 58A offers the same durable quality and great sound quality as the original SM58.
While it’s more than capable of delivering that classic Shure midrange punch, it is noticeably harsh in the upper midrange which can be fairly fatiguing after long listening periods. On the flip side, this can help vocalists and guitarists cut through in a mix.
What I like
- Rugged.
- Energetic-sounding.
- Moderately-priced.
What I don’t like
- Might be too bright for some.
Why you should trust this review
I’ve been writing, performing, recording, mixing, and producing music for over 15 years.
I have had experience in a vast array of genres, studio settings, and have worked and collaborated with countless artists and brands.
Working with names such as Shure, AKG, Neumann, and Sennheiser, among many others, has lent me nuanced insights into the practical application of audio equipment, and what value it provides users ranging from novice to seasoned professionals.
Contents
Use these jump links to navigate to the desired section of the review.
Polar pattern and frequency response
The Beta 58A is a supercardioid microphone, with a frequency response ranging from 50 Hz to 16 kHz. The top end has two presence peaks at 4 kHz and 10 kHz to help vocalists cut through a mix, which can be preferable in many instances. However, some find this added boost to be a bit grating.
To my ears, the microphone is fairly harsh in the upper midrange, but a little EQ is normally enough to fix this. Now, lets review the most common uses for this microphone.
Vocals 4.0
I’m fairly partial to a warmer vocal sound, so I don’t tend to reach for the Beta 58A much when I’m recording.
I have on several occasions and have been more or less content with the results. It’s really a preference thing, some folks really love the extra presence.
Same goes for live vocals. A bit too bright for my taste but some folks really love the sound. It will certainly help you cut through the mix if nothing else.
Acoustic guitars 3.5
You can use it on acoustics if you want, but I would probably reach for a condenser or a small-diaphragm cardioid. Don’t let my personal preferences deter you though.
Guitar amps 4.5
Alternatively, I do enjoy using this mic on electrics from time to time. Especially if I’m trying to get a bit more sparkle or attack out of the track. It might not be the best option for recording amps in every situation but it’s a solid option.
Bass amps 2.0
Beta 58A on a bass cab? Not for me, but you’re more than welcome to give it a go.
Drums 4.5
I’ve had a lot of success using this microphone for snare tops, bottoms, hi-hats, and as an overhead every once in a while.
The presence peaks really add a lot of personality to the track, making it sound a little “crispy” if you will.
Build quality 5.0
Shure tends to focus on durability equally if not more so than sound quality. That being said, this microphone is extremely rugged and well-designed.
You can basically use the Beta 58A as a hammer without worry.
Compared to other microphones
While the Beta 58A might be a decent choice, especially as a microphone for live vocals, here are a few alternatives to consider.
Shure Beta 58A vs SM58
A standard SM58 is definitely more useful than the Beta 58A. The brightness of the Beta 58A really shuts it out from a lot of applications whereas a SM58 can be thrown at just about anything.
Read the full Shure SM58 review
Shure Beta 58A vs SM57
These two microphones sound pretty similar to my ears, although again, I get a lot more use out of a loose SM57 than a Beta 58A. After all, it’s industry standard.
Read the full Shure SM57 review
Shure Beta 58A vs Sennheiser e 945
The e 945 is a lot smoother, and a lot more balanced tonally than the Beta 58A is. To reiterate for the umpteenth time, the Beta 58A is enormously bright, which makes it less desirable in a large number of applications.
See Sennheiser e 945’s current price
Who is the Shure Beta 58A best suited for?
The Beta 58A is best suited for anybody who likes using an SM58 or an SM57 but wishes that it had a bit more aggression and presence in the top end.
See current price at: SweetwaterAmazon
