Shure Beta 58A Supercardioid Dynamic - Vocal Microphone

The Shure BETA 58A is one of the most widely recognized and highly respected professional dynamic supercardioid vocal microphones in the world. It's often considered an "upgrade" or alternative to the legendary Shure SM58, offering a distinct set of characteristics that make it a favorite for lead and backing vocals in live sound reinforcement and studio recording.

Here's a detailed look at its key features and specifications:

Core Design & Capsule:

• Dynamic Microphone (Moving Coil): Like most rugged stage microphones, the Beta 58A is a dynamic microphone. This means it's built to handle extremely high sound pressure levels (SPLs) without distortion, making it ideal for powerful vocalists and loud stage environments.

• Supercardioid Polar Pattern: This is a crucial distinguishing feature. A supercardioid pattern is more directional and tighter than a cardioid pattern (like that of the SM58). It offers:

  • High Gain Before Feedback: By rejecting sound more effectively from the sides, it allows for higher monitor and main PA volumes before feedback occurs.

  • Superior Isolation: It's excellent at isolating the vocalist's voice from other instruments on a busy stage, reducing bleed and resulting in a cleaner mix. It does, however, require the vocalist to be more consistent about singing directly into the microphone.

  • Rear Lobe: Unlike a cardioid mic that rejects best from the rear, a supercardioid mic has its points of maximum rejection at approximately 125 degrees off-axis, with a small lobe of sensitivity directly at the rear. This means careful monitor placement is important (e.g., placing wedges slightly off-axis from the mic's rear).

• Neodymium Magnet: The Beta 58A utilizes a neodymium magnet. This contributes to its higher output and increased sensitivity compared to microphones with traditional magnets, providing a stronger signal-to-noise ratio.

• Tailored Frequency Response: The microphone's frequency response is specifically shaped for vocals, often described as having a "brightened midrange and bass roll-off to control proximity effect." This helps vocals cut through a mix with clarity and presence.

Performance & Practicality:

• High Output: Thanks to its neodymium magnet, the Beta 58A has a hotter output level (about 4dB hotter) than the SM58, meaning it delivers a stronger signal to the mixer, potentially requiring less gain from your preamp.

• Frequency Response: Typically 50 Hz to 16,000 Hz. Compared to the SM58, the Beta 58A generally has a slightly more extended low-end and high-end, which can result in a more detailed or "crisp" sound, depending on the vocalist.

• Advanced Pneumatic Shock Mount System: The internal capsule is isolated by a sophisticated pneumatic shock mount. This effectively minimizes the transmission of mechanical noise and vibrations (like handling noise or stand-transmitted rumble), ensuring a cleaner vocal signal.

• Hardened Steel Mesh Grille: The Beta 58A features a durable, hardened steel mesh grille that is highly resistant to dents and abuse, making it incredibly robust for touring and heavy use.

• Minimally Affected by Varying Load Impedance: This ensures consistent performance across different mixing consoles and preamps.

• No On/Off Switch: The standard Beta 58A typically does not include an on/off switch, which is preferred by many professional sound engineers to prevent accidental muting during a performance. (Some variations or wireless systems might include a switch on the transmitter).

Applications:

• Lead Vocals: Its high output, superior feedback rejection, and clear, present sound make it an excellent choice for lead vocalists in almost any genre.

• Background Vocals: Ideal for tightly controlling backing vocals in a mix, preventing bleed.

• Speech and Presentations: Provides clear and articulate voice reproduction for public speaking.

• Loud Stages: Particularly shines in high-volume stage environments where feedback is a constant concern.