A detailed review and comparison of the Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone and the Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM8500 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone.

Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Overview
The Shure SM58-LC is an industry-standard microphone that has been a favourite among performers and audio engineers for decades. Known for its durability, reliability, and consistent performance, the SM58-LC is a go-to choice for live vocals, public speaking, and studio recording.

Key Features
1. Build Quality: The SM58-LC is renowned for its robust construction. It features a steel mesh grille and a sturdy metal body that can withstand rough handling and harsh environments.
2. Sound Quality: It offers a warm, clear sound that is particularly well-suited for vocal performances. The tailored frequency response emphasizes midrange and bass frequencies, making vocals sound rich and full.
3. Polar Pattern: The cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise, which is ideal for live sound applications.
4. Pneumatic Shock-Mount System: This feature reduces handling noise, ensuring that the sound is clean and free of unwanted vibrations.
5. Frequency Response: Ranges from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, providing a balanced and natural sound for a variety of vocal styles.

Pros

• Durability: Can withstand extreme conditions and rough handling.
• Sound Clarity: Excellent for live vocals with a clear and warm sound.
• Reputation: Trusted and widely used in professional settings.
• Minimal Feedback: Cardioid pattern effectively reduces feedback and background noise.

Cons

• Price: More expensive compared to other dynamic microphones.
• Weight: Heavier than some competitors, which might be a consideration for long performances.

Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM8500 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone

Overview
The Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM8500 is a budget-friendly microphone that offers surprisingly good performance for its price. It is often chosen by beginners and those looking for an affordable yet effective microphone for various vocal applications.

Key Features
1. Build Quality: The XM8500 has a solid build with a metal body and steel mesh grille. While not as indestructible as the SM58, it is quite durable for its price range.
2. Sound Quality: It delivers a decent sound quality with a frequency response that is tailored to vocal frequencies. The sound is slightly less refined compared to the SM58 but still quite good for most uses.
3. Polar Pattern: Like the SM58, it has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to isolate the sound source and minimize background noise.
4. Shock Mount System: Includes an integrated shock mount to reduce handling noise, though not as sophisticated as the Shure's pneumatic system.
5. Frequency Response: Ranges from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, which is similar to the SM58 and suitable for vocal applications.

Pros

• Affordability: Significantly cheaper than the SM58, making it accessible for budget-conscious users.
• Decent Build Quality: Solid and durable for its price range.
• Good Sound Quality: Provides a clear and usable sound for various vocal tasks.
• Low Handling Noise: Integrated shock mount helps reduce handling noise.

Cons

• Sound Refinement: Not as refined or warm as the SM58.
• Durability: While durable, it is not as robust as the SM58.
• Brand Reputation: Behringer is often seen as a budget brand, which might influence professional perception.

Comparison


Sound Quality

• Shure SM58-LC: Offers superior sound quality with a warmer and clearer tone, particularly well-suited for professional vocal performances. The midrange emphasis helps vocals cut through the mix in live settings.
• Behringer XM8500: Provides good sound quality for its price but lacks the same level of refinement and warmth found in the SM58. It is adequate for many uses but might fall short in professional or critical listening environments.

Build Quality

• Shure SM58-LC: Known for its legendary durability, the SM58 can handle extreme conditions and rough use without compromising performance.
• Behringer XM8500: Has a solid build that is impressive for its price range but does not match the robustness of the SM58. It should still hold up well under normal use.

Features

• Shure SM58-LC: Offers advanced features like the pneumatic shock-mount system, which effectively reduces handling noise, and a finely tuned frequency response for vocals.
• Behringer XM8500: Includes basic features such as an integrated shock mount and a cardioid polar pattern but lacks the advanced engineering of the SM58

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Price

• Shure SM58-LC: Higher price point, justified by its superior sound quality, durability, and professional-grade performance.
• Behringer XM8500: Very affordable, making it a great choice for beginners, hobbyists, or those needing a decent microphone on a tight budget.

Conclusion

The choice between the Shure SM58-LC and the Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM8500 depends largely on your needs and budget:

• Shure SM58-LC: If you are a professional performer, sound engineer, or someone who needs a reliable microphone for frequent and demanding use, the SM58-LC is worth the investment. Its superior sound quality, exceptional durability, and professional reputation make it a staple in the industry.
• Behringer XM8500: If you are on a budget, a beginner, or need a microphone for less critical applications, the XM8500 is a fantastic option. It offers good performance at a fraction of the cost of the SM58 and is suitable for a wide range of uses, from home recording to casual live performances.

Ultimately, both microphones have their place in the audio world. The SM58-LC is the benchmark for professional dynamic microphones, while the XM8500 provides an accessible entry point with commendable performance for its price, and also a great microphone to use as a backup or spare mic should you need one.

Shure SM58-LC: Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/3UTSZT2
Behringer XM8500: Check price on Amazon https://amzn.to/45dewed