Greetings friend and Welcome aboard!!
Before we get into the Shure SM86 vs. SM58 comparison, grab a snack, sit back and relax because..
You’ve come to the right place!!
What I will bring you in this review
Today I will provide a quick comparison of these two, and then give a recommendation towards the end! 🙂
- Similarities & Differences
- Final Word
Now without further ado, let’s get rolling!!
Similarities & Differences
Similarities
- Both are made by Shure in Mexico.
- Both come with the zipper pouch and the mic clip.
Differences
- Type. The biggest difference between these two is that the SM86 is a condenser microphone, while the SM58 is a dynamic. Condenser mic vs. Dynamic mic.
- Shape & Size. The SM86 is larger than the SM58, and has a different grille shape. More on that in the comparison video.
- Weight. The SM86 is 278g vs. 298 for the SM58.
- Frequency Response. The Sm86 is 50Hz – 18kHz, while the Sm58 is 50Hz – 15kHz.
- Both are cardioid microphones with an XLR output. What is XLR? The SM58 also has silver plated pins vs. the gold of the SM86. What is a Cardioid capsule?
- Build quality. While both are very durable, the SM58 may just be the most durable piece of equipment ever. It’s extremely robust, to the point of unbelief. The folks at Shure ran over it with a car, dropped it from 6 stories, put holes in it with a shotgun, and it still worked. Pretty incredible.
- Overall Sound. Being a condenser microphone, the SM86 is more prone to background noise, while the SM58 rejects it better. The SM86 is also less punchy, with a reduced overall presence. The SM86 is also not quite as muddy or boomy due to it’s gradual roll off from about 1k. The SM86 is also designed to work better in live situations, but you may not be able to discern a difference. To me, the SM58 comes across as kind of congested and muffled sounding in comparison to the crystal clear 86. To sum it up, the SM86 will provide a more refined, detailed sound.
Video Comparison!
Final Word
I prefer the sound of the SM86, but then again it depends on what you need.
A live, indestructible vocal mic that doesn’t require phantom power?
SEE THE SHURE SM58 FOR YOURSELF ON AMAZON!!
What about an extremely detailed condenser microphone that will require phantom power?
CLICK HERE TO READ THE SM86’s REVIEWS ON AMAZON!!
Well that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed this Shure SM86 vs. SM58 comparison.
Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Looking for something else? Please let me know down below or Contact me!!
Which of these tickles YOUR pickle? I would love to hear from you. Until next time..
All the best and God bless,
-Stu