subject: Compare Live Vocal Microphones [print this page] For our purpose, we are going to look at three of the top rated microphones for use with vocals. These are the Shure 58 (SM58), the Neumann KMS 105, and the Audix OM6. All three are high quality live vocal microphones, but they are very different from one another in how they handle feedback, vocal range, and other things.
1. The Shure 58 is possibly the most popular of all vocal microphones. It features sturdy construction that can take the abuse of being tossed around on the road and still produce true vocal tones when everything is set up.
This microphone is designed to work best with mid to high range vocals, meaning it will not provide ideal quality when used by a vocalist in the lower range. It is recommended that these people use a microphone that uses a larger diaphragm to bring out the warmth of their vocals.
2. The Neumann KMS 105 is a very versatile vocal microphone that is ruggedly constructed for use in live performance situations. It does a very good job of blocking surrounding sounds while picking up the voice of the vocalist using it. It can be set to a level that assures one's voice can be heard while singing softly without fear of feedback when one sings louder.
One drawback is that this microphone tethers the vocalist to one spot if he wishes to avoid the feedback that many microphones produce from monitors that are poorly placed in relation to the microphone.
3. The Audix OM6 solves the problem of the vocalist being able to move around. This microphone has a very sensitive pickup in front to capture and reproduce the voice of the vocalist, but virtually no pickup in back. Monitors are no problem for this mike. However, it does not have the midrange presence seen with other microphones. This one works best for highs and lows, but not the middle.
