What transformer is in SM57?

Shure 51A303 Transformer for SM58-LC and SM57.

Why is SM57 good for guitar?

The Shure SM57 is a very capable microphone for recording an acoustic guitar. Its ability to eliminate unwanted noise make it a good choice to capture the acoustic guitar’s clarity and detail. Condenser microphones are the best option for acoustic guitar, but with care an SM57 can work well.

Is SM57 a dynamic or condenser?

The Shure SM57 is a low-impedance cardioid dynamic microphone made by Shure Incorporated and commonly used in live sound reinforcement and studio recording.

Why is SM57 good for snare?

When it comes to micing a snare drum, the SM57 has pretty much dominated for the best part of 50 years. The SM57 adds just the right amount of low-end weight, while also adding presence and ‘crack’ to the drum. For this reason, the 57 is a go-to mic and has featured on countless records throughout music’s history.

Does an SM57 need phantom power?

Phantom power is a way to provide power to microphones that require electricity to operate, typically condensers. On the other hand, dynamic mics—the ubiquitous Shure SM57 and SM58, for example—do not require power.

Does SM57 need 48v?

Can 48v damage dynamic mics?

It will not hurt anything to leave your phantom power on. Most dynamic or condenser microphones that don’t require phantom power will reject it. Ribbon mics are the exception in this situation. Sending phantom power to a ribbon microphone will probably have disastrous consequences.

What does the stock transformer do in the SM57?

The stock transformer in the SM57 increases the output level by about 12dB, but it also contributes to the 57’s somewhat pinched and midrangey sound. Taking it out is a quick and free way to increase the frequency and transient response of your mic. The video below walks you through the steps for this mod:

Where can I buy a transformer for a funkenwerk mic?

If you’re handy with soldering irons and electronics in general, you can order the transformer directly from Oliver Archut’s site at and do the mod yourself by replacing the transformer on the SM57 or SM58 mic you already own.

What is the SM-57 used for?

The SM-57 is a unidirectional (“cardioid”) dynamic mic that has been used in some respect on 75% of the recordings in your collection — from snare drum to vocals to guitar cabs to, well, everything.

How can I increase the input impedance of the SM57?

Nowadays, most mic preamps and mixers present a rather high input impedance for condenser microphones. However, the SM57 was designed in the days of the standard 600ohm input and theoretically performs better when more heavily loaded (lower input impedance). By connecting a resistor across the preamp’s input, we can increase the load on the SM57.