Shure BETA 58A SUPERCARDIOID DYNAMIC VOCAL MICROPHONE User Guide
- June 13, 2024
- Shure
Table of Contents
Shure BETA 58A SUPERCARDIOID DYNAMIC VOCAL MICROPHONE
GENERAL
The Shure BETA 58A is a high-output, supercardioid dynamic vo-cal microphone for professional sound reinforcement and project studio recording. It maintains a true supercardioid pattern through-out its frequency range. This ensures high gain before feedback, maximum isolation from other sound sources, and minimum off-axis tone coloration.
The BETA 58A has a shaped frequency response that is ideal for close-up vocals. The superb performance of this microphone is not affected by rough handling because of its rugged construction, proven shock mount system, and hardened steel mesh grille. Typ-ical applications for the BETA 58A include lead vocals, backup vo-cals and speech.
FEATURES
- Frequency response tailored for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass rolloff to control proximity effect
- Uniform supercardioid pattern for high gain before feedback and superior rejection of off-axis sound
- Neodymium magnet for high signal-to-noise output
- Hardened steel mesh grille that resists wear and abuse
- Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
- Minimally affected by varying load impedance
- Legendary Shure quality and reliability
APPLICATION AND PLACEMENT
The BETA 58A is designed for close-up vocals, and can be hand held or mounted on a stand. Some of the most common applica-tions and placement techniques are listed in the following table. Keep in mind that microphone technique is largely a matter of per-sonal taste; there is no one “correct” microphone position.
| SUGGESTED MICROPHONE PLACEMENT | TONE QUALITY |
|---|
Lips less than 15 cm (6 in.) away or touching the windscreen, on axis to
microphone.| Robust sound, emphasized bass, maximum isolation from other
sources.
15 to 60 cm (6 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, just above nose height.| Natural
sound, reduced bass.
20 to 60 cm (8 in. to 2 ft.) away from mouth, slightly off to one side.|
Natural sound, reduced bass and minimal “s” sounds.
90 cm to 1.8 m (3 to 6 ft.) away.| Thinner, distant sound; noticeable levels
of ambient noise.
GENERAL RULES FOR MICROPHONE USE
- Aim the microphone toward the desired sound source and away from unwanted sources. Since supercardioid microphones such as the BETA 58A have narrow pickup patterns and can pick up sounds from the rear, this may not be obvious or intuitive.
- Place the microphone as close as practical to the desired sound source. Refer to the table above.
- Work close to the microphone for extra bass response.
- Use only one microphone to pick up one sound source.
- Keep the distance between microphones at least three times the distance from each source to its microphone.
- Use the fewest number of microphones as is practical.
- Place microphones as far as possible from reflective surfaces.
- Add a windscreen when using the microphone outdoors.
- Avoid excessive handling to minimize pickup of mechanical noise and vibration.
- Do not cover any part of the grille with your hand.
PROXIMITY EFFECT
Unidirectional microphones such as the BETA 58A progressively boost bass frequencies by 6 to 10 dB at 100 Hz when the micro-phone is at a distance of about 6 mm (1/4 in.) from the sound source. This phenomenon, known as proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. To prevent explosive low frequency sound during close-up use, the BETA 58A bass re-sponse gradually rolls off. This provides greater control and helps the user take advantage of proximity effect.
STAGE MONITOR & P.A. LOUDSPEAKER PLACEMENT
For maximum rejection of unwanted sound, place the stage moni-tor(s) or P.A. system loudspeaker at a 60° angle from the rear of the BETA 58A, not directly behind it. Always check out the stage setup before a performance to ensure that microphone and moni-tor placement is optimum.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Type Dynamic (moving coil)
- Frequency Response 50 to 16,000 Hz
NOTE: The curve below shows on-axis response at a distance of 2 feet from a uniform sound source. Your response may vary, depending on microphone position.
Polar Pattern: Supercardioid, rotationally symmetrical about microphone axis, uniform with frequency
- Output Level (at 1,000 Hz)
- Open Circuit Voltage: -51.5 dBV/Pa (2.6 mV) 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL
- Impedance Rated impedance is 150 Ω (290 Ω actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low Z
- Phasing Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
-
Case
Silver blue enamel-painted die cast metal with hardened, mattefinished, spherical steel mesh grille -
Adjustable, Stand Adapter
Slip-in microphone mounting, unbreakable, adjustable through 180° with standard 5/8″-27 thread, black finish -
Dimensions
-
Net Weight
278 grams (9.92 oz) -
Certification
Eligible to bear CE Marking. Conforms to European EMC Directive 89/336/EEC. Meets applicable tests and performance criteria in European Standard EN55103 (1996) parts 1 and 2, for residential (E1) and light industrial (E2) environments.
FURNISHED ACCESSORIES
- Adjustable Stand Adapter ……………………………….. A25D
- 5/8″ to 3/8″ (Euro) Thread Adapter ………………. 95A2050
- Storage Bag …………………………………………………. 26A21
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
- Windscreen……………A58WS Series (8 colors available)
- Isolation Mount…………………………………..A55M, A55HM
- 7.6 m (25 ft.) Cable ………………………………..C25E, C25F
REPLACEMENT PARTS
- Cartridge ………………………………………………………..R176
- Grille Assembly…………………………………………..RK265G
- Plug (Connector) Assembly ………………………… 90F1984
SHURE Incorporated http://www.shure.com United States, Canada, Latin America, Caribbean: 5800 W. Touhy Avenue, Niles, IL 60714-4608, U.S.A.
- Phone: 847-600-2000
- U.S. Fax: 847-600-1212
- Intl Fax: 847-600-6446
- Europe, Middle East, Africa:
- Shure Europe GmbH, Phone: 49-7131-72140 Fax: 49-7131-721414
- Asia, Pacific:
- Shure Asia Limited, Phone: 852-2893-4290 Fax: 852-2893-4055
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Shure BETA 58A microphone?
The Shure BETA 58A is a dynamic vocal microphone designed for professional live performances and studio recording.
What is the main feature of the BETA 58A microphone?
The BETA 58A features a supercardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the intended sound source and reduce background noise.
Is the BETA 58A suitable for live performances?
Yes, the microphone is designed for live stage use and is well-known for its durability and reliable performance.
What is a supercardioid polar pattern?
Supercardioid is a directional polar pattern that captures sound from the front while reducing sensitivity to sounds coming from the sides and rear.
What type of vocalists is the BETA 58A microphone ideal for?
The BETA 58A is favored by vocalists who require clear and powerful vocal reproduction with reduced handling noise.
Does the microphone require phantom power?
No, the BETA 58A is a dynamic microphone, so it does not require phantom power to operate.
Can the BETA 58A be used for recording in a studio setting?
Yes, the microphone is suitable for studio recording, especially for vocals in various genres.
Does the BETA 58A have an internal pop filter?
The microphone has an integrated pop filter that helps minimize plosive sounds and wind noise.
Is the BETA 58A durable?
Yes, the microphone is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and is known for its durability.
Does the microphone come with an included carrying case?
Yes, the BETA 58A typically comes with a carrying pouch or case for protection and transport.
Can the BETA 58A handle high sound pressure levels (SPL)?
Yes, the microphone is designed to handle high SPLs, making it suitable for loud vocalists and instruments.
What is the frequency response of the BETA 58A?
The frequency response usually ranges from around 50 Hz to 16 kHz, capturing a wide range of vocal frequencies.
Can the BETA 58A microphone be used with other instruments?
While it's primarily designed for vocals, it can also be used to mic instruments like guitar amplifiers and percussion.
Does the microphone have a built-in shock mount?
The microphone has an internal shock mount system that helps reduce handling noise and vibrations.
Can the BETA 58A microphone be used for outdoor performances?
Yes, the microphone's supercardioid pattern helps reject ambient noise, making it suitable for outdoor use.
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