The Shure SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone that has been a staple in the music industry for decades. Known for its durability, versatility, and clear sound reproduction, it’s a favorite among musicians, sound engineers, and podcasters alike. However, one question that often arises is: are SM57s quiet? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of microphone noise, explore the characteristics of the SM57, and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of its noise performance.
Understanding Microphone Noise
Before we dive into the specifics of the SM57, it’s essential to understand the concept of microphone noise. Microphone noise refers to the unwanted sounds or hiss that a microphone picks up, which can be caused by various factors such as:
- Self-noise: The inherent noise generated by the microphone itself, including thermal noise, mechanical noise, and electrical noise.
- Environmental noise: External sounds that the microphone picks up, such as background hiss, hum, or vibrations.
- Handling noise: Noise caused by the user handling the microphone, such as rustling, tapping, or breathing.
Types of Microphone Noise
There are several types of microphone noise, including:
- White noise: A consistent, even hiss that sounds like static.
- Pink noise: A softer, more gentle hiss that sounds like gentle wind or rain.
- Impulse noise: Sudden, sharp sounds like clicks or pops.
The SM57: A Closer Look
The Shure SM57 is a dynamic microphone that uses a cardioid polar pattern to capture sound. It’s known for its:
- Clear and balanced sound reproduction: The SM57 is renowned for its ability to capture a wide range of frequencies, from deep bass to crisp highs.
- Durability and ruggedness: The SM57 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and heavy use.
- Versatility: The SM57 can be used for a variety of applications, including vocals, guitar amps, drums, and public speaking.
SM57 Noise Performance
So, are SM57s quiet? The answer is a resounding “yes.” The SM57 is known for its low self-noise and high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which means it can capture a strong signal while minimizing unwanted noise.
- Self-noise level: The SM57 has a self-noise level of around 10 dB-A, which is relatively low compared to other dynamic microphones.
- Signal-to-noise ratio: The SM57 has a high SNR of around 80 dB, which means it can capture a strong signal while minimizing unwanted noise.
Comparing the SM57 to Other Microphones
To put the SM57’s noise performance into perspective, let’s compare it to other popular microphones:
| Microphone | Self-Noise Level | Signal-to-Noise Ratio |
| — | — | — |
| Shure SM57 | 10 dB-A | 80 dB |
| Sennheiser MD421 | 12 dB-A | 75 dB |
| Audio-Technica AT2020 | 14 dB-A | 70 dB |
As you can see, the SM57 has a lower self-noise level and a higher SNR compared to other popular microphones.
Minimizing Noise with the SM57
While the SM57 is known for its low noise performance, there are still ways to minimize noise when using this microphone:
- Proper microphone technique: Hold the microphone correctly, with the grille about 6-8 inches from the sound source.
- Use a pop filter: A pop filter can help reduce plosive sounds and prevent distortion.
- Position the microphone correctly: Experiment with different microphone positions to find the one that captures the best sound with the least amount of noise.
- Use a noise reduction tool: Many audio editing software programs have noise reduction tools that can help minimize unwanted noise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Shure SM57 is a quiet microphone that is well-suited for a variety of applications. Its low self-noise level and high signal-to-noise ratio make it an excellent choice for capturing high-quality audio with minimal unwanted noise. By following proper microphone technique and using noise reduction tools, you can minimize noise and get the most out of your SM57.
Whether you’re a musician, sound engineer, or podcaster, the SM57 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality microphone. So, the next time someone asks you, “Are SM57s quiet?” you can confidently say, “Yes, they are.”
What is an SM57 microphone?
The SM57 microphone is a dynamic microphone produced by Shure Incorporated. It is widely used for recording and live performances, particularly for capturing the sound of loud instruments such as drums and guitar amplifiers. The SM57 is known for its durability and ability to withstand high sound pressure levels.
The SM57 is often used by sound engineers and musicians due to its clear and balanced sound reproduction. It is also commonly used for public speaking and live performances, as it can effectively capture the speaker’s voice and project it to the audience. The SM57 is considered a versatile microphone that can be used in a variety of settings.
What is meant by a “quiet” microphone?
A “quiet” microphone refers to a microphone that has a low self-noise level, meaning it produces minimal background noise or hiss when not picking up any sound. This is particularly important in recording and live performances, as a quiet microphone can help to reduce the overall noise floor and produce a cleaner sound.
In general, condenser microphones tend to be quieter than dynamic microphones, as they are more sensitive and can pick up a wider range of frequencies. However, some dynamic microphones, such as the SM57, are designed to be relatively quiet and can produce a clean sound with minimal background noise.
Is the SM57 a quiet microphone?
The SM57 is considered to be a relatively quiet microphone, particularly for a dynamic microphone. It has a self-noise level of around 10-15 dB-A, which is relatively low compared to other dynamic microphones. This makes it suitable for recording and live performances where a clean sound is required.
However, it’s worth noting that the SM57 is not as quiet as some condenser microphones, which can have self-noise levels as low as 5-10 dB-A. Nevertheless, the SM57 is still a popular choice among sound engineers and musicians due to its durability, versatility, and ability to produce a clear and balanced sound.
What factors affect the noise level of the SM57?
Several factors can affect the noise level of the SM57, including the gain level, the type of cable used, and the environment in which it is used. If the gain level is set too high, it can introduce noise into the signal, while using a low-quality cable can also increase the noise level.
Additionally, the SM57 can pick up background noise from the environment, such as air conditioning or traffic noise. To minimize this, it’s often used with a windscreen or pop filter, which can help to reduce plosive sounds and background noise.
How can I reduce the noise level of the SM57?
There are several ways to reduce the noise level of the SM57, including using a low-noise preamp, setting the gain level correctly, and using a high-quality cable. Additionally, using a windscreen or pop filter can help to reduce plosive sounds and background noise.
It’s also worth noting that the SM57 can be used with a noise reduction device, such as a noise gate or a compressor, which can help to reduce the overall noise level. By using these techniques, it’s possible to produce a clean and quiet sound with the SM57.
Is the SM57 suitable for recording quiet instruments?
The SM57 is generally not the best choice for recording quiet instruments, as it is designed to handle high sound pressure levels and may not be sensitive enough to pick up the sound of quiet instruments. For recording quiet instruments, a condenser microphone is often a better choice, as it is more sensitive and can pick up a wider range of frequencies.
However, the SM57 can be used for recording quiet instruments if a high-gain preamp is used, or if the instrument is amplified in some way. Additionally, the SM57 can be used in combination with a condenser microphone to create a blended sound that combines the best qualities of both microphones.
Can I use the SM57 for recording vocals?
The SM57 can be used for recording vocals, particularly for loud or aggressive vocal styles. It is often used for recording vocals in live performances, as it can handle high sound pressure levels and produce a clear and balanced sound.
However, for recording quiet or delicate vocals, a condenser microphone is often a better choice, as it is more sensitive and can pick up a wider range of frequencies. Additionally, the SM57 may not be the best choice for recording vocals that require a lot of detail and nuance, as it can sound somewhat bright and aggressive.