10-Second Summary: Shure SM48 vs Shure SM58
The Shure SM48 has a cardioid polar pattern which means that it will pick up sound from in front of you and behind you. The SM58, on the other hand, only picks up sounds coming towards your direction, so if someone is talking to you directly, they won’t be picked up by the mic unless they move away from you. This can make the difference between getting excellent audio quality when recording vocals or not.
What are the Similarities Between the Shure SM48 and SM58?
Several features are shared by both dynamic microphones. They include the following:
• Both microphones come with a built-in pop filter. This feature helps reduce unwanted noise during recording sessions.
• Both microphones use a cardioid polar pattern. This makes them ideal for vocals and instruments.
• Both microphones have a metal casing. This gives them strength and durability.
• Both microphones offer excellent audio performance.
Both Have a Built-in Pop Filter
A pop filter can help with handling plosives. SM48 has a pop filter, but it doesn’t handle plosives very well. Make sure to purchase an extra wind and pop filter if you plan on buying Shure SM48.
The /p/, /t/ and /k/ sounds great with the Shure SM58 pop filter. It’s good for beginners as they won’t suffer from plosive sounds.
Shure SM48 vs SM58 – Performance Comparison
The Shure SM48 has been designed as an all-rounder. Its design makes it suitable for almost any scenario where one needs a compact yet powerful condenser mic. The Shure SM48 is also known for its versatility. Its ability to handle different scenarios is ideal for recording vocals, live performances, interviews, etc.
It is also used extensively in music production due to its high output level and excellent frequency response. In addition, it comes with a built-in shock mount making it easy to attach to various types of equipment such as guitars, keyboards, drums, etc. It even works perfectly fine without using a stand!
On the other hand, the Shure SM58 was specifically made for vocalists who need a microphone that offers exceptional clarity and detail while maintaining good low-end frequencies. It is often recommended for singers because it provides better voice reproduction than most dynamic mics. However, this doesn’t mean that it cannot work effectively for non-vocal applications. For example, musicians may find it helpful in tracking acoustic guitar parts.
In terms of overall performance, the two mics share many similarities. Their sensitivity levels are similar, and their maximum SPL ratings are identical at 140dB. On top of these things, they produce very similar results when compared side by side.
The Major Differences Between the Two Dynamic Microphones
What are the Differences Between the Shure SM48 and SM58?
Both microphones share some similarities. They are both designed by Shure. The differences between them lie in their design, features, and specifications. Let’s take a look at each of these aspects.
Design
One significant difference between the Shure SM48 microphone and the Shure SM58 microphone lies in their designs. Both microphones are made up of metal housings. Their bodies are also similar. However, the SM58 is slightly larger than its counterpart. It measures 6 inches long, while the SM48 measures 5 inches long. In addition, the SM58 comes with an XLR connector, while the SM48 uses a 1/4 inch jack plug.
Features
Another critical factor that differentiates the two mics is their features. While the SM58 offers more advanced features such as wind filters, high pass filtering, and phantom power, the SM48 does not.
Both have a slightly different frequency response
The main difference between the SM48 and the SM58 is their sensitivity rating. The SM48 is rated at 57.5 dB, while the SM58 is 58 dB. This makes the SM58 slightly louder than the SM48.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the SM58 comes with a clip stand, whereas the SM48 does not have any mounting system included.
The SM58 is less general than the SM48, but it offers a slightly clearer tonal quality. This makes it easier to sing along with your favorite songs without having to adjust the volume levels.
Though it doesn’t go quite as low as the SM48, it won’t pick up any lows below 20 Hz. That said, if you want something that sounds like a classic condenser, this could be the best choice out there.
Polar Pickup Pattern
Both of these are ideal for recording vocals, which is perfect for podcasting, and both come with a variety of other features that place them amongst the best sound recording equipment you’ll ever find.
Now that we know how durable these microphones are, let’s talk about their pickup pattern.
As mentioned earlier, both microphones feature cardioid polar patterns, meaning that they pick up sounds coming directly towards them rather than picking up surrounding noise as well.
Cardioids are great because they allow you to focus more attention on the person speaking without worrying about unwanted background noises getting picked up.
Sound Quality: Bottom Line
Both microphones have pros and cons, but if you want something versatile, go ahead and pick either. The SM58 offers a better low end, while the SM48 sounds more precise and crisper in the high registers.
However, if you don’t care about those details, or if your main goal is capturing good vocals, then the SM58 should do fine. If you’re looking for a mic that can handle everything from rock music to classical pieces, however, I’d recommend going with the SM48 instead.
If you need help choosing which one will suit your needs, feel free to check our guide on choosing the right dynamic microphone.
Shure SM48 Vs. SM58 – What Do We Think?
The Shure SM48 is better than the SM58 because it does not require too much power to amplify the sound. In addition, it is also cheaper than the SM58. However, if you want something that will last longer, then we recommend getting the SM58 instead.
While the SM58 has some advantages over the SM48, they both work well together. So, if you’re just starting off, we suggest picking up the SM58 first before moving onto the SM48.
Conclusion
Both microphones are great. They are perfect for recording vocals, acoustic guitars, drums, etc. Both microphones are easy to use and carry around. Overall, you’ll get what you pay for when buying these microphones.
