The Shure SM57 is a versatile dynamic microphone that has found its place in countless studios, live sound setups, and on stages around the world. One critical aspect of any microphone is its polar pattern, which determines how it captures sound from different directions. In this article, we will explore the polar pattern of the Shure SM57 and clarify whether it is omnidirectional.
Polar Patterns: A Brief Overview
Polar patterns describe the directional sensitivity of a microphone and indicate how it responds to sound from different angles. There are several common polar patterns, including omnidirectional, cardioid, supercardioid, and figure-eight. Each pattern has its unique characteristics, making it suitable for specific applications.
The Polar Pattern of the Shure SM57
The Shure SM57 is not omnidirectional; instead, it features a cardioid polar pattern. Here’s what you need to know about the cardioid pattern:
- Cardioid Pattern: The term “cardioid” derives from the heart-like shape of the pattern. A cardioid microphone is most sensitive to sound coming from the front (the “top” of the heart) and rejects sound from the sides and rear.
- Directional Sensitivity: A cardioid microphone like the SM57 captures sound primarily from one direction, making it ideal for isolating sound sources and reducing background noise. This pattern is suitable for a wide range of applications, including instrument miking, vocals, and live sound reinforcement.
- Off-Axis Rejection: Cardioid microphones have excellent off-axis rejection, meaning they minimize the pickup of sound from the sides and rear. This characteristic helps reduce feedback in live sound applications and minimizes unwanted ambient noise in the studio.
Why Cardioid is Common
The cardioid polar pattern is prevalent in microphones like the SM57 for several reasons:
- Versatility: The cardioid pattern strikes a balance between capturing sound from the front and rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This versatility makes it suitable for various applications, from instrument miking to live vocals.
- Feedback Control: In live sound, cardioid microphones help control feedback by minimizing sound pickup from monitor speakers and other sound sources on stage.
- Sound Isolation: Cardioid microphones excel at isolating the primary sound source, allowing you to focus on capturing the intended sound while reducing interference from surrounding noise.
- Predictable Performance: Musicians and sound engineers appreciate the consistent and predictable behavior of cardioid microphones in different acoustic environments.
When to Choose Omnidirectional Microphones
While the Shure SM57 is not omnidirectional, there are scenarios where omnidirectional microphones are preferred. Omnidirectional microphones capture sound evenly from all directions and are often used when you want to capture a broader soundfield or for natural room ambiance.
In conclusion, the Shure SM57 features a cardioid polar pattern, not an omnidirectional one. This directional sensitivity is well-suited for a wide range of applications where sound isolation, feedback control, and focused sound capture are essential. Understanding the polar pattern of your microphone is crucial for achieving the desired results in your recording or live sound endeavors.