The Shure SM57 is a cardioid dynamic microphone that has been an industry standard for instrument and speech reinforcement for decades. Its frequency response of 40Hz-15kHz with a contoured presence rise makes it a go-to choice for close-miking snare drums, guitar and bass amp cabinets, and brass instruments, while its cardioid pattern rejects off-axis sound to minimise bleed on busy stages.

Built around a tough steel mesh grille and a proven moving-coil capsule, the SM57 is renowned for surviving drops, knocks and general stage abuse without a change in performance, which is why it remains a rider staple for touring and dry-hire alike. Supplied with a standard 3-pin XLR output, it needs no phantom power and pairs with any standard mic stand or clip.