Shure SM57-LC Dynamic Cardioid Instrument Microphone

The Shure SM57-LC is a wired dynamic instrument microphone designed for close-miking amplified instruments, drums, percussion, and selected vocal applications. Its cardioid pickup pattern helps concentrate capture on the intended source while reducing pickup from the rear and surrounding stage or studio noise. It is a practical choice when a dependable XLR microphone is needed for live sound reinforcement or recording.

This microphone is well suited to guitar and bass cabinets, snare drums, toms, brass, woodwinds, and acoustic instruments. Its contoured frequency response includes a presence rise intended to support attack and detail from instrument sources. The result is a focused, direct sound character that can help instruments remain defined in a mix.

The SM57-LC uses a moving-coil dynamic element, so it does not require phantom power for operation. Its 40 Hz to 15 kHz frequency response covers the core range of many amplified and acoustic instrument sources. The cardioid pattern also supports close placement, helping reduce unwanted bleed in multi-microphone setups.

Shure equips the SM57 design with a pneumatic shock-mount system to help reduce handling noise and mechanical vibration. The housing uses enamel-painted die-cast steel with a polycarbonate grille and stainless steel screen. This construction is intended for regular transport, stage use, and studio sessions.

For use in a recording or live-sound system, connect the microphone's male XLR output to a mixer, audio interface, microphone preamp, or other compatible XLR microphone input. The SM57-LC package includes a swivel stand adapter and storage bag, while an XLR cable is required separately. Placement can be adjusted around a speaker cone or drum head to tailor attack, bass response, and overall balance.

Key Features

• Dynamic Moving-Coil Element: Operates without phantom power and is suited to instrument and vocal capture.
• Cardioid Polar Pattern: Focuses on the source in front while reducing rear pickup.
• Contoured Frequency Response: Adds presence for defined attack and instrumental detail.
• Pneumatic Shock Mount: Helps reduce handling noise and mechanical vibration.
• Male XLR Output: Connects to compatible professional microphone inputs with an XLR cable.
• Included Stand Adapter: Provides a practical mounting option for microphone stands.

Design & Installation

The SM57-LC has a dark gray, enamel-painted die-cast steel housing with a polycarbonate grille and stainless steel screen. Its compact body measures 157 mm long, with a maximum width of 32 mm. The microphone weighs 0.284 kg and uses a three-pin male XLR connector.

Mount the microphone with the included A25D swivel stand adapter and connect it using a compatible XLR microphone cable, which is not included with the SM57-LC. For guitar or bass cabinets, placement close to the cone emphasizes attack; moving farther back can produce a more balanced capture. For drums and percussion, aim the microphone toward the desired striking surface while keeping unwanted sound sources behind the microphone.