Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 [2023 Review]

The difference between the iconic SM58 and the Beta58 is frequently questioned. So, in this Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 review, we will be looking at their features to see what is the actual difference and can it justify the difference between their price.

Both microphones have excellent sound and performance. Each model has its own essential features that you can use for different situations. The polar pattern of these microphones is perhaps the most noticeable thing. The polar pickup pattern of the SM58 is cardioid, while the Beta 58A is supercardioid.

If you are interested in these models, keep reading our Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 review for more information below. We will be exploring their features, pros, and cons in detail to help you figure out which one to get.

Winner of Shure Beta 58A vs SM58: Shure SM58

Given how a performer is likely to be positioned in front of an on-stage monitor, Shure SM58 is less likely to feedback. Overall, the response pattern is the most important factor to consider when selecting between these two mics. When you compare these two mics side by side, the difference is just so tiny to even care.

If you will be using one of these mics for a simple studio sesh, you should go for SM58 and save money. The price difference does not justify the tiny differences between Shure Beta 58A vs SM58, so our winner is definitely Shure SM58.

However, do not forget that Beta 58A appears to have the advantage for on-stage use because it can handle greater gain before feedback.

Although the specs of the Beta58A are often superior to those of the SM58, the Beta58A’s features are not always desired when it comes to certain situations. Greater sensitivity and subtleties of the Beta 58A are not ideal if you will be using your voice at its highest point.

Using an SM58 instead would be a much better option for cases like that. After all, it is a matter of personal preference and circumstance so you should take your own story into consideration.

Shure BETA 58A Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone Review

Features: The Shure Beta 58A is a high-performance supercardioid mic that can offer excellent, clean vocals. Moreover, it is sold at such an affordable price. It can clear up vocals without overdoing it and helping the sound to stay in its natural range.

Shure Beta 58A offers a straight response over the full vocal range. We are sure singers will love this mic when you take the versatility into account. This microphone is simple to use for both singers and sound engineers and we can say that it is made with one of the best durable materials out there.

This is for sure a good investment, but some other mics can work better if you value smoothness and subtlety. At 6.3 kHz, there is a 90-degree joint. This means a resonant spot, but it should not bother you a lot since you will not be able to hear it unless you listen to the sound ultra-focused.

Nonetheless, there is considerable roughness in Beta 58A, which is why Shure has more expensive and better options. Without a question, the Shure Beta 58A is a fantastic performer when you think of the price.

Shure is known for producing long-lasting products, and this one is not any different than the rest. As a result, we can say that it is worth purchasing Beta 58A. This is a good mic due to its reliability and adaptability, as well as overall sound quality.

Shure SM58 Handheld Dynamic Vocal Microphone Review

Features: One of the best microphones in its class, the Shure SM58 has a gradient bass attenuation from 40-100Hz is due to the frequency response between 50Hz-15kHz. The Shure SM58 is essentially a simple dynamic microphone that shares many of the same qualities as the ones released before.

The SM58 is a pure voice mic, but it does not mean that it will do the best job at capturing instruments due to its flatter grille and smaller footprint. This microphone is meant for recording human voices from the ball-shaped grille.

That part gives a bit of distance between the sound source. And thanks to the amazing design, it makes the hand holding a lot easier. It is the perfect tool for singing, podcasting, or for recording Youtube content.

Shure SM58 also has an internal pop filter to reduce the bad effects of noises. This is as durable as a mic can get, and we are very confident to say there is not any mic that can beat Shure SM58 in terms of durability. The best thing about Shure SM58 is its cheap price. Under $100, you can get the best mic possible and use it in any studio.

Do not expect a flashy outer look from this mic but it has the ideal weight and it has a durable and robust die-cast steel body.

Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 Comparison

If you are wondering what the differences are between the Shure Beta 58A vs SM58, we got you covered. Let’s look at the differences, benefits, and overall aspects of each.

The difference between these two mics may not be visible to the ones who have not already checked them before. The only major difference seems to be their different polar patterns, SM58 being a cardioid and Beta 58A a super-cardioid.

We can say in our Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 review that both have identical appearances and model numbers. There is a doubling price difference but it does not necessarily mean that the price tag suggests that Beta 58A is a better choice.

But it does not change the fact that Beta 58A has a tighter pick-up pattern that makes it more resistant to feedback.

Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 Sound Quality

First, let’s take a closer look at Beta 58A’s frequency response. When compared to the SM58, there is less low end generally, and it also rolls off more smoothly.

This explains why the mic no longer has the muck and artificial low end that the SM58 is known for. The luminance boost, which can be noticed in the 3 to 4 kHz band, shows a very seamless transition.

SM58, on the other hand, has a shift in the 2 to 3 kHz band that begins a little too suddenly. It begins to sound harsh at this point, but Beta 58A remains “chill” and smooth.

Frequency response is a big aspect of how a microphone sound. You can tell by this specific feature that how a mic will perform. The SM58 has always sounded great and we discovered that even BETA 58A has the same range when we look at the specifications part.

What differs these two is the change of Beta 58A’s high ends. They drop off slightly more slowly towards 20kHz than the SM58.

Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 Build Quality

The SM58 is known for its toughness, and the Beta 58A has an even tougher hardened steel grille. They are both pretty sturdy and durable mics so it is almost impossible to damage those. Even though the Beta 58A appears to be more gleaming on the exterior, what is inside is almost the same as the SM58.

If you value the looks more, you should definitely go for Beta 58A but there is almost no difference between SM58 and 58A except for their outer looks.

Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 Volume

The difference in output volume between the Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 is something you will feel right away. The Shure Beta 58A has a Neodymium magnet, which results in increased sensitivity and output loudness.

It is 4db hotter than the SM58 and has a stronger signal-to-noise ratio. This improved sensitivity, along with a wider frequency range means cleaner and brighter sounds. One of the key reasons solo vocalists prefer this mic is this.

The Beta 58 also has a low handling noise due to its sophisticated internal pneumatic shock mounting design, which reduces vibrations while in your hands.

Conclusion: Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 [2023 Review]

For decades, the Shure SM58 has been the mic that is preferred by almost anyone due to its low cost, versatility, and dependability. Along with the SM series, there is a BETA series and these are the more expensive versions of SM ones. However, the lower cost SM58 is enough on its own so you will not need to buy BETA 58A.

Shure Beta 58A appears to be comparable to the SM58, but their price difference is too much of a deal. For that reason, we recommend sticking with SM58 unless Shure manages to release a mic that can beat it. We hope you liked our Shure Beta 58A vs SM58 review and it was helpful.