The Shure SM57-LCE is a legendary cardioid dynamic microphone celebrated for its versatility, durability, and exceptional audio performance. Designed by Shure, a brand synonymous with premium audio equipment, this microphone has been a staple in live sound reinforcement and studio recording since its debut in 1965. Musicians, producers, and sound engineers worldwide rely on the SM57-LCE for its ability to capture instruments and vocals with clarity and precision.
Crafted with a rugged die-cast steel body, the SM57-LCE is built to endure the toughest conditions—drops, knocks, and heavy use won’t compromise its performance. Its compact, tapered design ensures easy handling or stand mounting, while the hardened steel mesh grille protects internal components without obstructing sound. A pneumatic shock-mount system reduces handling noise and vibrations, delivering clean audio even in dynamic settings. Notably, this model lacks an on/off switch, a design choice that boosts reliability by preventing accidental muting during critical moments.
The SM57-LCE shines with a contoured frequency response (40 Hz to 15 kHz) tailored for amplified and acoustic instruments, as well as rich vocal reproduction. It emphasizes midrange clarity, rolls off sub-bass to avoid rumble, and boosts upper mids and treble for detailed sound—perfect for snare drums, guitar amps, and brass. Its cardioid polar pattern isolates the sound source, rejecting off-axis noise like stage bleed or crowd chatter, and its high SPL handling makes it ideal for close-miking loud sources without distortion.
This microphone excels across applications: it’s a top choice for drums, guitar and bass amps, percussion, brass, and woodwinds in both live and studio settings. While optimized for instruments, it also delivers crisp vocals, though it lacks the pop filter of the SM58. The "LCE" version excludes an XLR cable but includes a mic clip (A25D) and zippered pouch. As a dynamic microphone, it requires no external power, seamlessly connecting to mixers or interfaces via its 3-pin XLR.
With a heritage spanning decades—including use on the U.S. presidential podium—and a TECnology Hall of Fame induction, the SM57-LCE combines affordability ($99–$120 USD) with professional-grade quality. Known as "indestructible," it’s a trusted workhorse for touring artists, studio pros, and hobbyists alike, solidifying its status as one of the world’s best-selling microphones.
