SM57 LC : Versatile Mic

First things first. I'm not an audio engineer nor am I a recording technician. I record human speech both in an office/studio and on location for podcasts and broadcast. Therefore, I always aim for the very best quality recording whilst restricting my mic cupboard (small box!) to dynamic types due to their robustness and simplicity. I don't record vocalists/singers.

Utilising an RE20 as my main studio mic with an EV635A omnidirectional as my tough, go anywhere outdoor location mic - something was missing. I found myself in need of a general use directional microphone for use at indoor locations whilst on the road, which could also be used as a secondary mic in my studio for guest use.

After reading reviews and relying on gut reaction, (which hasn't yet let me down) I plumped for the SM57. What has surprised me is the sheer vocal quality and depth of this latest acquisition. On it's first outing, recording a subject on location in her lounge at 20-30cm produced a rich, realistic recording with just enough room ambience to stop things sounding sterile and one dimensional. Perfect! Place the mic closer and you get even deeper tones with no downside. So far, I reckon on 50cm as a maximum to maintain directional quality.

For my type of use, I also appreciate that I can just point and record with a minimum of faffing about such as setting up angles and distances etc. Keep the distance within 50cm (closer outdoors) and you won't be disappointed. The body is reassuringly weighty and robust which gives the perception of longevity. The carrying bag is a nice extra and I use the Shure A55M anti-shock clamp which isolates any vibration really well.

And the plastic voice coil guard that freely swivels 360º? I still haven't a clue!