DATE: Tue, 23 Aug 1994 16:50:44 CDT From: "Charles Williams CS" Subject: A Good Mike
On Aug 23, 12:07pm, bob unger wrote: > Subject: Re: SM58 mic > I've seen the SM58 for $108 at Sam Ash. > BU > b~nkst.edu >-- End of excerpt from bob unger
Before a purchase is made you may want to consider this. I have used a variety of microphones and currently own a Shure 58 and an EV 357 ndym. I have also played through the SM 57 often when sitting in with other bands - it seems that is one mike they are willing to spare to the poor harp player. Everybody is correct that cheaper mikes may be suitable for your need. The cheapest one I own I bought for $3 at an auction and had it rewired.
Since someone may want to sing as well sooner or later, I really prefer the EV 357. It has taken alot of abuse and I like the tone for harp whether using it as a hand held mike or playing off the mike from the stand. I have had few problems with feed back and the mount is anti-shock - ie. doesn't pick up much handling noise. I have tried many mikes including very expensive ones like a German made Beyer which is a ribbon mike thaat breaks easilly if dropped (Lee Oskar use to use one) and I also own bullets, rewired grocery store mikes, a Shaker and a Sennheiser. I use them for different purposes but if I can take only one with me on travel and no amp then I take the EV 357 which costs range from $115 to $150 depending. I heard that EV is bringing out a new line this Fall so you may be able to find a bargain.
Shure also makes a comparable model called the Beta 57 and 58. But for vocals and playing harp through a PA I love my EV 357. As Charlie Musselwhite once told me "I don't like to be too dependent on an amp, it's "your" tone that counts". I also like the Shure 58 - an old reliable and the SM 57 although I don't prefer the narrowness of it. I even have one of the old Hohner rubberized diatonic harp pick ups (good for playing through a rack). I don't think they make them any more.
I use the other mikes for different amps. For example I like the Shaker when playing through my old Gibson stereo amp but that is about it. I carry it in my bag in case my bullet goes out on me as the Shaker is virtually indestructible and adequate but not my favorite and horrendous alone (for me) straight through a PA.
Hope this helps. I recommend buying a certain level of overall quality and perhaps versatility but that is your call. Good luck with your purchase. The choices are numerous.
