Shure Logo.png
Blog

What's the Difference Between the SM58 and the Beta58A?

What's the difference between the SM58 and its supercardioid cousin the Beta 58A? Both of these Shure mics are characterized by sound quality and reliable performance, however, there are differences that suit specific applications.
March 26, 2013 |
Beta 58A and SM58 together

Our technical team here at Shure are regularly asked to describe the difference between our classic SM58 and its closely related cousin, the Beta 58A. Firstly, let's be clear: this is not a question of better or worse – both microphones are characterized by outstanding sound and performance. However, each model has key fundamental strengths suitable for different applications. Here are some of the key differences to bear in mind...

Polar Pattern:

Perhaps the most obvious difference is the microphone polar pattern. The SM58 has a cardioid polar pickup pattern, while the Beta 58A is a supercardioid. The polar pattern subsequently affects how you should use the microphone and where it would be most appropriate.

A cardioid microphone will reject best from the back while a supercardioid microphone will reject better from the sides. Both microphones pick up sound best from the front, but a supercardioid polar pattern has the added advantage of being more directional and therefore less susceptible to feedback when using correctly placed stage monitors.

 

Output Level:

Due to its neodymium magnet, the Beta 58A has greater sensitivity and a 4dB hotter output than the SM58.

 

Frequency Response:

The Beta58 has an extended low-end and high-end compared to the SM58. This does not necessarily mean the Beta58 is better, and depending on the style/tonal characteristic of your voice, you may or may not benefit from the extended frequency response.

 

Handling Noise:

The Beta 58A is quieter than the SM58 due to its advanced pneumatic shock mount system.

 

Grille:

The Beta 58A has a hardened grille, which makes it more difficult to dent.

 

Summary

To summarize, the Beta 58A is no doubt an upgrade for many applications, but in some scenarios, these upgrades can also be a hindrance. For example, if you're performing in a heavy-metal band, and you typically shout or scream into your mic - you may not want the extra sensitivity and detail of the Beta58. It's all a matter of application and taste - which do you prefer?

For further information on choosing the right microphone, you may find our previous post on "How to Choose the Best Microphone for Vocals" helpful.

Further mic comparison posts available on this website:
SM57 vs Beta 57

henshall-marc.webp
Marc Henshall
Marc forms part of our Pro Audio team at Shure UK and specialises in Digital Marketing. He also holds a BSc First Class Hons Degree in Music Technology. When not at work he enjoys playing the guitar, producing music, and dabbling in DIY (preferably with a good craft beer or two).

Productos y accesorios relacionados

Artículos relacionados

  • MV7+ microphone

    Making a Great Mic Even Better: Meet the New MV7+ Podcast Microphone

    The MV7+ Podcast Microphone from Shure now comes with a customizable LED touch panel, powerful DSP features and even better audio. Find out everything about this refreshed hybrid USB/XLR mic made for discerning podcasters, streamers and musicians.
  • A2 monitoring channels with WAVETOOL with iPad

    Using WAVETOOL for Superior Mic Monitoring in High-Stakes Productions

    Monitoring multiple channels of audio for large productions like TV shows or theater is often a very complex operation. Fortunately, WAVETOOL software can help sound engineers keep everything under control.
  • TobyMac picking up KSM11 off of rack with AD600 and Axient Digital

    The Path to Extraordinary Sound - Insights from TobyMac's Audio Pros

    Watch TOBYMAC’s engineering team, PAT HAAPANEN and HEATH MAHON, discuss how they achieve peerless audio with advanced equipment from Shure.
  • Ofertas navideñas de Shure

    Disfruta de una dulce Navidad con las ofertas de Shure

    Ya se acercan las fiestas y con ellas el frío aire invernal, pero ¡seguro que se caldeará el ambiente con el dulce sonido de las ofertas navideñas de Shure! Aprovecha estas ofertas para hacer tus compras navideñas al mejor precio.
  • La estrella del streaming de las nuevas generaciones, Supercatkei, cantando

    Visita al mundo dulce y melódico de la estrella del streaming Supercatkei

    Supercatkei, la estrella del streaming de las nuevas generaciones, dirige una de las cuentas de Twitch más importantes del sudeste asiático, aunque Denise Teo confiesa a Louder que nunca imaginó que su sueño musical de la infancia acabaría así.
  • SM7B vs SM7dB

    SM7B or SM7dB: Which Microphone is Right for You?

    The SM7B is an audio icon cherished by musicians, podcasters and streamers. Now, the new SM7dB offers the same legendary sound, but has a custom preamp designed by Shure inside. Which of these dynamic microphones is right for you?
  • speaker speaking with shure TH53 wireless headset microphone

    Choosing the Best Headset Microphone: A Comprehensive Guide

    From performers to presenters, finding the perfect headset microphone can be daunting. This guide from Shure simplifies the search, so your voice resonates with your audience just as you intend.
  • Person speaking to an audience with the UniPlex lavalier microphone

    How to Choose the Best Lavalier Microphone

    The lavalier microphone is minuscule but mighty when it comes to sound recording and reproduction. Learn all about choosing the right lavalier for your needs in this guide from Shure.
  • Artist Boy Willows sings into an SM7B and is wearing Shure SRH Headphones

    Make The World Your Stage: Boy Willows with Quick Stop By

    Boy Willows is the last extraordinary artist to round off our 2022 line up with an exclusive live performance of his track 'Quick Stop By' at Gold Diggers Studios in LA. Make The World Your Stage celebrates emerging artists with performances, behind the scenes interviews and more.