Best mic for live dirty vocals?

  • Thread starter Thread starter hungovermorning
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hungovermorning

Dr. Caveman.
First off, I would like to say how little I like the sm58. some people swear by it but it just doesn't do it for me, I usually use a 57 for vocals but it sounds like there's a lot of mid range missing. I'd really like something kind of like a 57 (with the grit that it gives you on vocals) but with a warm mid range. Does anyone know anything like that for live applications? Thanks!
 
Interesting. The 57/58 is about the most midrangey mic I've ever used.

I guess if you wanted it even more so, you can either look at other good dynamics, or get into the realm of the Ugly. That is, really cheap Radio Shack mics or the like.
I find it really hard to believe that you could need more of a midrange bump than what the 57 gives you, though. I spend most of my time with that mic trying to get RID of it.
 
I'd rather get into the range of good dynamics, I've done the garage thing for a while and radio shack mics... *shudders* I just really enjoy that gritty Rob Tyner tone out of the vocals. I sang out of some AKG a while back that just did it for me but I have no idea what it was. The 57 is great, it's just missing a little something.
 
Try the Sennheiser evolution series. Supposedly, they're clearer, crisper, and "better" mics for live vocal work.

If the sound of the SM58 isn't for you, the e835 might do nicely.
 
Gah! I sound like a damn salesman. But they're good mics.
 
You could always give a Beta57/58 a try.


The thing is though, when you get into "better" dynamics like these, you generally get increased sensitivity and a more extended high-end... and LESS midrange if anything.
 
You may have PA issues and not a problem with your mic.

If you feel that your PA is OK then you need to hook up with a local sound engineer and get him to let you audition a few mics. Without hearing your voice its impossible to say what direction you should go.
 
I have an SM-57 here I have rebranded as the "Lenny Bruce".

It simply SHINES on dirty material!
 
I am with the squid. Your mic is fine, overdrive the trim on your board and swallow the mic
 
I've just consistantly disliked the 58 in all the clubs we play usually regardless of the set up, usually there's an all right setting. The 57 has definitely been very close to what I like but there's also that breakability issue. a 58 can be thrown downstairs, 57s not so much.
That Seinheiser sounds intriguing, my voice sounds like Detroit rock n roll ala Rob Tyner (MC5), Iggy Pop (The Stooges) and a pinch of The Sonics. If anyone wants to take a shot and listen to a tune and maybe something will come to mind www.lockedsound.com on the free music page. Thank you for everyone's imput thus far!
 
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