SM57 LC : Shure SM57 LC

I purchased the Shure SM57 LC several years ago and it has served me well on many recording projects, from small home projects to larger studio projects. Placed in front of a guitar amp, this microphone gives great results, and when close-miking the guitar amplifier the microphone can be moved around in order find the 'sweet spot' in order to achieve even better sounds. However, for home recording, simply placing the microphone in front of the speaker as close as it can go to the grill without touching will provide good results every time (providing your amp sounds good in the first place!)

I also often use the microphone alongside a condensor when recording various instruments (vocals, acoustic guitar etc) in order to add a little 'grit' to the sound. I don't mean that the sound of this microphone is gritty per say, more that it compliments the super-clean sound of a condensor microphone when you are looking for a more in-your-face sound, such as with the blues or rock / metal.

This was the first microphone I ever purchased, and is also the one which I use most often. I would recommend this microphone to anyone looking for a good all-rounder for home use, or as a specialist instrument microphone for use in front of a guitar amplifier in the studio or live setting.