Shure Beta 57 A

Probably built even sturdier than the sm57, this mic is an all around good tool for capturing sound. It has a powerful output and good anti-feedback characteristics, so it's perfect for live applications. It works great on vocals, except that it's pop filter is only a cloth-like material put inside around the mesh. Not ideal, but it works and I've seen many singers using it.

It shines the most on guitar amps, it captures more information on mid - high mids than the sm57 which is also muddier, but beta doesn't have that bright snap 57 is known for. I don't prefer using it for snare because it lacks the punch, also somehow makes area around 350 - 600 Hz ringy.

It's a bit pricey, but we know what we pay for - quality and reliability by Shure.

This is my first mic - so I'm no expert - and maybe in more experienced hands the issues I've noted would be less significant. But! My experience has been this...

Pros: Good results recording acoustic guitar, great results recording electric guitar through an inexpensive Vox Pathfinder 10 with loads of pedals.

Cons: A bit noisy when recording just speech. I use this to record the introduction to my radio shows and I was disappointed by the presence of a slight but undeniable level of ambient background static.

I also recommend the use of an external pop shield. At least one reviewer said this wasn't necessary. In my experience it is.