What is included in the Shure PGA58 bundle?

The bundle typically includes the Shure PGA58 microphone, an XLR to XLR cable, and a choice of microphone stand. It also includes a stand adapter for mounting the microphone securely.

Does the Shure PGA58 require phantom power?

No, the PGA58 is a dynamic microphone. Unlike condenser microphones, it does not require external phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR input.

Is the PGA58 suitable for recording in a studio?

Yes, while designed for live performance, the PGA58's tailored vocal cartridge makes it a reliable choice for studio recording. Its durable build allows it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

What is the benefit of the cardioid polar pattern?

The cardioid pattern picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the back. This is ideal for live stages as it focuses on the singer and reduces the pickup of other instruments or monitor feedback.

Can I use the PGA58 for instruments?

While specifically tailored for vocals, the PGA58 can be used for instruments in a pinch. However, Shure offers dedicated models like the SM57 which are better suited for high-SPL instrument applications.

Does the PGA58 have an on/off switch?

Yes, the PGA58 features an integrated on/off switch on the handle. This allows the user to mute the microphone when not in use without needing the sound engineer to intervene.

How many microphones can be purchased in the bundle?

The bundle is customisable, allowing users to purchase up to eight microphones and eight stands at once. This makes it a convenient option for outfitting an entire stage or rehearsal space.

What is the difference between the PGA58 and the SM58?

The PGA58 is part of the PG Alta entry-pro line, whereas the SM58 is the industry-standard professional model. The PGA58 features an updated metallic finish and an included switch, while the SM58 is known for its specific classic frequency response.

Is the cable included in the bundle high quality?

The bundle includes a standard XLR cable designed for immediate use. It provides a balanced connection to help prevent electromagnetic interference during live performances.

What finish does the PGA58 have?

The microphone features a modern black metallic industrial finish. This gives it a sleek appearance on stage compared to the matte grey of older Shure models.

Can the PGA58 handle rough touring?

Yes, the PGA58 is built with Shure's legendary construction quality. It is designed to withstand intensive use, including the bumps and drops associated with touring and frequent transport.

Who is the Shure PGA58 best suited for?

It is an excellent choice for lead and backup vocalists who need a reliable, clear-sounding microphone for live performances. It is also well-suited for schools, houses of worship, and small venues due to its durability and value.

Gear article

Shure PGA58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Shure PGA58 is a professional-grade dynamic vocal microphone designed for clarity in lead and backup vocal performances. Part of the PG Alta series, it features a cardioid polar pattern and a tailored cartridge design to ensure natural sound reproduction while minimising background noise.

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Overview

The Shure PGA58 is a rugged dynamic microphone engineered specifically for vocal applications. It is frequently sold as a customisable bundle, which includes the microphone itself, an XLR cable, and a choice of microphone stand. The bundle format is designed for scalability, allowing for the purchase of up to eight microphones and stands simultaneously, making it an efficient solution for venues, schools, or bands requiring multiple setups.

Design and Build

Following Shure's long-standing reputation for durability, the PGA58 features an updated industrial design with a black metallic finish and a classic silver ball grille. It includes a discrete on/off switch, allowing performers to manage their signal directly from the stage. The microphone is built to withstand intensive use, ranging from rough touring environments to frequent studio recording sessions and the physical rigours of live performance.

Shure SM58 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone

Technical Characteristics

The core of the PGA58 is its tailored cartridge design, which is specifically tuned to provide natural clarity in the vocal frequency range. The cardioid polar pattern is a critical feature, as it picks up sound predominantly from the front of the microphone while rejecting off-axis noise from the rear. This design helps to reduce the risk of feedback when using stage monitors and ensures a cleaner signal in loud environments.

Sound Profile

The sound of the PGA58 is characterised by its focus on vocal presence. By tailoring the frequency response to the human voice, it delivers a clear and natural tone that works effectively for both lead singers and backing vocalists. Unlike multipurpose microphones, its cartridge is optimised to prevent the muddiness sometimes associated with entry-level dynamic microphones, maintaining a professional standard of audio fidelity.

Market Comparison

Within the Shure ecosystem, the PGA58 serves as an accessible entry point compared to the industry-standard SM58 or the high-output Beta 58A. While the SM58 is renowned for its specific midrange punch and the Beta 58A for its supercardioid isolation, the PGA58 offers a modern aesthetic and an integrated switch at a competitive price point. It stands alongside other notable dynamic options such as the Sennheiser e935 or the Electro-Voice RE20, though it is positioned primarily for vocalists rather than the broadcast or specialized instrument roles held by the latter.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Shure PGA58 bundle?: The bundle typically includes the Shure PGA58 microphone, an XLR to XLR cable, and a choice of microphone stand. It also includes a stand adapter for mounting the microphone securely.
Does the Shure PGA58 require phantom power?: No, the PGA58 is a dynamic microphone. Unlike condenser microphones, it does not require external phantom power to operate and can be plugged directly into any standard XLR input.
Is the PGA58 suitable for recording in a studio?: Yes, while designed for live performance, the PGA58's tailored vocal cartridge makes it a reliable choice for studio recording. Its durable build allows it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.
What is the benefit of the cardioid polar pattern?: The cardioid pattern picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the back. This is ideal for live stages as it focuses on the singer and reduces the pickup of other instruments or monitor feedback.
Can I use the PGA58 for instruments?: While specifically tailored for vocals, the PGA58 can be used for instruments in a pinch. However, Shure offers dedicated models like the SM57 which are better suited for high-SPL instrument applications.
Does the PGA58 have an on/off switch?: Yes, the PGA58 features an integrated on/off switch on the handle. This allows the user to mute the microphone when not in use without needing the sound engineer to intervene.
How many microphones can be purchased in the bundle?: The bundle is customisable, allowing users to purchase up to eight microphones and eight stands at once. This makes it a convenient option for outfitting an entire stage or rehearsal space.
What is the difference between the PGA58 and the SM58?: The PGA58 is part of the PG Alta entry-pro line, whereas the SM58 is the industry-standard professional model. The PGA58 features an updated metallic finish and an included switch, while the SM58 is known for its specific classic frequency response.
Is the cable included in the bundle high quality?: The bundle includes a standard XLR cable designed for immediate use. It provides a balanced connection to help prevent electromagnetic interference during live performances.
What finish does the PGA58 have?: The microphone features a modern black metallic industrial finish. This gives it a sleek appearance on stage compared to the matte grey of older Shure models.
Can the PGA58 handle rough touring?: Yes, the PGA58 is built with Shure's legendary construction quality. It is designed to withstand intensive use, including the bumps and drops associated with touring and frequent transport.
Who is the Shure PGA58 best suited for?: It is an excellent choice for lead and backup vocalists who need a reliable, clear-sounding microphone for live performances. It is also well-suited for schools, houses of worship, and small venues due to its durability and value.