Shure SM58 has become the go-to choice of many people for live vocals. There are good reasons. The microphone is certainly a good-quality one. It is simple to use while offering good sound quality. However, people who have met AKG D5 say that this mic is even better. So, how do AKG D5 vs SM58 compare?
Continue reading below to find out more about:
– The designs and features of AKG D5 and Shure SM58,
– The comparisons of the sound quality of the two mics,
– The distinctive advantages of each mic, and
– Which mic that is more recommended for the money.
Design and Build Quality
AKG D5 is a stylish microphone. It does not look like a typical conventional microphone. It features a black grill and body along with a large AKG logo. The shape is quite elegant. Regarding the build quality, AKG D5 is also very good. The housing feels truly solid and rugged. This mic is certainly ready to be brought along in trips and travels. See also: Neumann TLM 102 vs AKG C414.
Shure SM58 is also a rugged and durable microphone, but the design is very conventional. It simply features a spherical metallic grille and a black body. Well, it just looks exactly like many other mics. The Shure brand is written near the base of the grille. Nevertheless, the look of the mic is indeed not the most important factor; as long as it works and is durable enough, it is great.
Technical Specs
| AKG D5 | AKG SM58 |
|---|---|
| - Polar Pattern : Supercardioid | - Polar Pattern : Cardioid |
| - Audio frequency bandwidth : 70 - 20000 Hz | - Frequency Response : 50 to 15,000 Hz |
| - Sensitivity : 2.6 mV/Pa | - Sensitivity : (at 1,000 Hz Open Circuit Voltage) : -54.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV) 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL |
Polar Pattern
When choosing between AKG D5 vs SM58, note that they come with different polar patterns. AKG says that the D5 is a supercardioid mic. On the other hand, Shure SM58 is a cardioid mic. The different polar patterns may provide the most benefits for different cases.
As a supercardioid mic, AKG D5 has a considerably narrower pickup angle on the front. As the effect, it is much more resistant to environmental noise, especially against sound signals coming from the sides. This is a big advantage when there are other performers on the stage, such as the instruments. However, this polar pattern may capture some noise from the back, so make sure to give enough space between the singer and the audience to avoid picking such noise.
Shure SM58 is a cardioid mic. This polar pattern is perhaps the most familiar one to us. A cardioid mic primarily picks up sound signals from the front while rejecting the sides and rear. It has a wider pickup angle than supercardioid. So, it is relatively more prone to noise coming from the sides.
Sound Quality
Of course, both mics sound great. However, AKG D5 has slightly more high-end content, whereas Shure SM58’s high-end content tends to be somewhat rolled off. Furthermore, AKG D5 also has slightly lower bass. This is easily noticeable when the mic pops on a breath sound. Hence, it is a good choice for bass amps or bass vocals. Shure SM58 doesn’t reach as low. Both mics have decent clarity, as they are capable of delivering sharp, detailed sounds.
AKG D5 Vs SM58
Conclusion
Between the two mics, we recommend you to choose AKG D5. This mic has a stylish design, and the supercardioid polar pattern is handy for reducing environmental noise from the sides. The sound has better high-end content and bass reach.