It's been to long since I've updated anything because I've been so wrapped up with work, studio and of course classes. Anyways, I recently had to write an essay and the Limited Edition Shure Super 55 Deluxe.
When I first began looking for a vocal microphone I was convinced that I would never find the right one. I needed one that could handle both clean and unclean vocals, had style, and also avoided that ever so annoying feedback that often occurs when you're crammed into a basement with a bunch of other musicians. And then I found the Limited Edition Shure Super 55 Deluxe and it was love at first sight. And of course, I did tedious amounts of research to be absolutely positive that it was what I wanted.
A little background about Shure; The Super 55 is a reproduction of the 55SH, one of the originators of Shure as well as a great influence on classic rock music. The older 55SH model became a rock 'n' roll icon after Elvis Presley took various infamous photographs with the microphone as well as frequently using it at his shows. Upon learning this I had just assumed that if a Shure microphone was good enough for the king, then it must be pretty damn righteous.
The Super 55 is also versatile and can be used for studio recording as well as live performances. The Super 55 is a super-cardioid microphone meaning that it's polar pattern – or sensitivity to sound – causes the microphone to pick up only what is directly in front of it and take very little sound in from the sides, as well as having off-axis rejection which eliminates unwanted background or PA noise that reduces the likely-hood of feedback occurring.
The sound that a Super 55 produces is nothing short than wonderful. The Super 55 is five decibels more sensitive than the standard 55 model, as well as having a clear sound that is less compressed, – doesn't reduce the dynamic range as much –.
The Super 55 also creates warmer tones in the low midrange which I know most people (including myself) like. The mic has a built in pop filter and can reduce or eliminate any kind of 'popping' sounds that could be caused by the impact of fast moving air on the microphone.
Another added bonus is that the mic is very tough. And I'm speaking from experience. Practicing in a hardwood basement amongst multiple cords, the guitarist of a former band had gotten his cord wrapped around the bottom of my stand and BAM, it fell. Like a normal person I was super concerned, but upon inspection and testing the sound the mic was virtually unharmed. And for klutz's like myself who are around other klutz's, this is the perfect feature and durability.
So now you've heard my take on all the positive aspects.
I've never had a single problem with this microphone and have used it live as well as in a recording studio situation.
The only major downside is that I haven't been able to find this microphone anywhere since they discontinued it, (obviously, LTD edition) though I'm sure you could probably find it from seller's on ebay or another used equipment store.
Because I've had a good run with Shure, I would also recommend maybe just getting the Super 55. Just keep in mind what your needs are and research the hell out of it, that way you know exactly what to expect from performance!
*Note: These are simply my opinions on this particular microphone, based on experience with usage. Just because I've had excellent results doesn't mean that you should expect to have the same experience. Remember to always make sure that the microphone meets your specific needs. This can help you get the most "bang" for your buck.
Thanks for taking the time to read this!
A little background about Shure; The Super 55 is a reproduction of the 55SH, one of the originators of Shure as well as a great influence on classic rock music. The older 55SH model became a rock 'n' roll icon after Elvis Presley took various infamous photographs with the microphone as well as frequently using it at his shows. Upon learning this I had just assumed that if a Shure microphone was good enough for the king, then it must be pretty damn righteous.
The Super 55 is also versatile and can be used for studio recording as well as live performances. The Super 55 is a super-cardioid microphone meaning that it's polar pattern – or sensitivity to sound – causes the microphone to pick up only what is directly in front of it and take very little sound in from the sides, as well as having off-axis rejection which eliminates unwanted background or PA noise that reduces the likely-hood of feedback occurring.
The sound that a Super 55 produces is nothing short than wonderful. The Super 55 is five decibels more sensitive than the standard 55 model, as well as having a clear sound that is less compressed, – doesn't reduce the dynamic range as much –.
The Super 55 also creates warmer tones in the low midrange which I know most people (including myself) like. The mic has a built in pop filter and can reduce or eliminate any kind of 'popping' sounds that could be caused by the impact of fast moving air on the microphone.
Another added bonus is that the mic is very tough. And I'm speaking from experience. Practicing in a hardwood basement amongst multiple cords, the guitarist of a former band had gotten his cord wrapped around the bottom of my stand and BAM, it fell. Like a normal person I was super concerned, but upon inspection and testing the sound the mic was virtually unharmed. And for klutz's like myself who are around other klutz's, this is the perfect feature and durability.
So now you've heard my take on all the positive aspects.
I've never had a single problem with this microphone and have used it live as well as in a recording studio situation.
The only major downside is that I haven't been able to find this microphone anywhere since they discontinued it, (obviously, LTD edition) though I'm sure you could probably find it from seller's on ebay or another used equipment store.
Because I've had a good run with Shure, I would also recommend maybe just getting the Super 55. Just keep in mind what your needs are and research the hell out of it, that way you know exactly what to expect from performance!
*Note: These are simply my opinions on this particular microphone, based on experience with usage. Just because I've had excellent results doesn't mean that you should expect to have the same experience. Remember to always make sure that the microphone meets your specific needs. This can help you get the most "bang" for your buck.
Thanks for taking the time to read this!