Shure SM57-LCE Instrument Dynamic Microphone

Shure SM57-LCE Dynamic Instrument Microphone — Built for Loud, Built to Last

The Shure SM57-LCE is a cardioid dynamic instrument microphone designed for close-miking amplified and acoustic sources, both on stage and in the studio. Clean reproduction of guitar and bass amps, snare drums, and brass comes without the brittle edge that often plagues cheaper dynamics. Its contoured frequency response with a presence rise ensures the source cuts through a crowded live mix.

What Sets the SM57-LCE Apart in the Dynamic Mic Category

Key design choices distinguish this microphone from generic dynamics in its class. Thanks to the pneumatic shock-mount, the capsule is isolated from mechanical vibration, minimizing handling noise and stage rumble. Engineers choose it for snare drum close-miking year after year because the contoured response is tailored specifically for instruments.

Tuned Response Curve for Instrument Sources

Optimized for close-miking loud sources, the response curve features a presence rise that highlights snare attack and guitar amp bite, while the cardioid pattern effectively rejects unwanted rear sound.

• Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 15 kHz — covers guitar amps, drums, and brass fundamentals
• The rear rejection from its cardioid pattern isolates your instrument even on loud stages.
• Presence Rise: Upper-midrange boost — cuts through the mix without EQ

Dynamic Capsule Engineered for High SPL

This model's dynamic capsule absorbs high-pressure sound waves from snare drums, kick drums, and cranked amplifiers. Because of its moving-coil design, it operates without the need for phantom power.

• Capsule Type: Dynamic (moving coil) — handles high SPL without distortion
• Build: Metal chassis with reinforced grille — survives drops and drumstick strikes
• With a pneumatic shock-mount system, handling noise and stage vibrations are kept out of your signal.

Ready to Mount Straight Out of the Box

Supplied ready to mount on a stand or attach to a drum rim, this model features an XLR output for connecting to any mixer or audio interface.

• Output: XLR (balanced) — works with any mixer, interface, or stage box
• Included Adapter: A25D swivel stand adapter — fits standard mic stands
• The included 95A2313 storage bag provides protection for the mic between gigs.

The Right Microphone for Live Performers and Studio Engineers

SM57-LCE suits gigging guitarists, bassists, and drummers seeking a single microphone built for the rigors of touring. Front-of-house engineers turn to it as a utility mic for amp cabinets, snare drums, and brass. Home studio producers also make use of the presence-tuned response that established this instrument as a studio standard.

A 60-Year Standard for Snare Drums and Amp Cabinets

SM57 has been the go-to for snare drum close-miking for nearly 60 years, valued for the way it balances low-end weight with the crisp high-end that defines a snare hit. Presidential podiums and arena stages have relied on the same model, and every unit undergoes a stress-test gauntlet before shipping. The European-market variant continues that tradition.