SM57 and 58 same capsule - can i just change grille?

[Obstacle1]

If it is true that the 57 and 58 are the same capsule then am i right in thinking that i could just change the grille to get desired 58 or 57 sound? or would they not fit?

 

[Outlaws]

If it is true that the 57 and 58 are the same capsule then am i right in thinking that i could just change the grille to get desired 58 or 57 sound? or would they not fit?

They are the same mic, but I dont' think the can swap grills freely.

 

[jonnyc]

If it is true that the 57 and 58 are the same capsule then am i right in thinking that i could just change the grille to get desired 58 or 57 sound? or would they not fit?

Just unscrew the ball on the 58 to get more of the 57 sound and put a windscreen thing on a 57 to get more of a 58 sound. Although I'd doubt you'd really hear a huge difference between the two just the way they are.

 

[antichef]

nice! For some reason, used 58's are much cheaper more available than used 57's around where I am -- must be the spit factor. You can get a replacement ball grille for not much, though (and thoroughly sterilize the remainder of the mic). I had been looking for 57's and not finding them (for much less than retail, that is), but picked up a couple of 58's cheap (~$20@) because they were there and the replacement grille's were too.

 

[Ford Van]

It is the same element/electronics inside each mic, but, the casings are slightly different.

 

[travelin travis]

An sm58 with the grill off sounds a little different but not enough to worry about. If you're planning to use your 58 with the grill off much, just get a 57.

 

[Ford Van]

Yeah, they really don't sound "identical" when you take off the ball/grill on the 58. Somehow, I think the way it is mounted, and possibly the slight difference in the casings make for a different sound.

 

[Obstacle1]

Okay - thanks for the help guys. I reckon I'll just stick with the 58 and maybe play around with the grille on/off if the sound doesn't differ that much.

 

[timboZ]

Blue Bear come out and play.

 

[TragikRemix]

blue bear hasnt been around in months.. i wonder..

 

[jonnyc]

Blue Bear happily posts on other forums, I'm thinking he may not want to be associated with engineers like us.

 

[timboZ]

What forums.

I want to post the question..What is the difference between a 57 and 58.