Sennheiser E835 VS Shure SM58

**Ced** · 08-21-2006

I would like to know which one between Sennheiser E835 and Shure SM58 is BETTER. I heard that they are supposed to be equal as sounding.

Which one would you use as acoustic instrument recording and which one as vocal recording?!

Thanks!

Ced

**noisedude** · 08-21-2006

The Sennheiser is quite similar sounding to the 58 but crucially has more high-end frequency response ... important for natural-sounding acoustics, cymbals, vocals and so on.

I find myself reaching for EQ much less often when I use the Sennheiser E range.

Just for reference, I've got five E845s and one E835. The only Shure I have left now is an old USA-built 545 Unidyne III (early version of SM57 but with a slightly higher bump with vocals in mind). Some of those are seven years old now. They don't get dented in the basket like a 58 does either.

**battleminnow** · 08-21-2006

My 835 has replaced my 58 in MOST siuations, and my Audix I5 has replaced my 57 in most as well. But all of these are great mics to have in the locker.

Pete

**nuemes** · 08-21-2006

It likely depends on the voice. I heard a female singer through a SM58 live and the vocals were muddy and nearly unintelligable. Mid set she switched to an e835 (not sure if e835 or e835s) and the difference was tremendous. Much more clear and made a big difference in audience reaction because it suited her voice so much better.

I'd go with the e835. Curious how it would do against an Audix OM5 or Electro Voice though(?)

**prestomation** · 08-22-2006

I don't own any e835's, but we've used them at a couple shows. They sound really great on vocals. I'd like to pick one up!

**savageblues** · 08-22-2006

I have both, but I always try to make sure the E835 is on my stand!

It works better for my wife's voice too.

HOWEVER - our bassist / main vocalist has a VERY loud voice and the 58 sounds better on him.

**xstatic** · 08-22-2006

It really depends opn teh situation. I have at least a dozen of each mic. When I first added the Sennheisers to my stock, I really liked them. Now however I find them to be no better or worse than a 58, just a little different. What I have have noticed is that through most cheaper speakers the Sennheiser sounds a little more "full" where the 58 might emphasize on the higher frequencies too much. However, on a nicer system, the 58 actually utilizes those spots well and the Sennheisers often feels a little muffled. Once again though, it is dependent on way too many factors, which is why I did not vote.

**bubbagump** · 08-22-2006

Originally Posted by xstatic

However, on a nicer system, the 58 actually utilizes those spots well and the Sennheisers often feels a little muffled.

Really? I have found the 835s to have much more top end than a 58. Hrm...

**battleminnow** · 08-22-2006

Originally Posted by nuemes

Curious how it would do against an Audix OM5 or Electro Voice though(?)

I love the OM5 on my voice more than any of these previously mentioned.

Pete

**sound125** · 08-22-2006

The e835 is an excellent sounding mic, but the SM58 is smoother and has a warmer midrange, which is why I prefer it. Hard to mess up with either of these mics.