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Shure SM56 Facts: 119 Specifications & 29 Highlights

Real users on Soundfindr looked at 119 specs & features of the Shure SM56 microphone — and general information, dimensions & weight, audio performance & connectivity & interfaces topped the charts.

46 Points
Shure
Shure
Shure SM56
The Shure SM56 has been discontinued️. Our community last shared an update on November 20, 2025.
Shure SM56

Highlights 29

No extras. Just what matters.
46 Points

Why is Shure SM56 better than other microphones ?

General Information

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Dimensions & Weight

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Audio Performance

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Connectivity & Interfaces

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Build & Design

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Package & Accessories

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Certification & Compliance

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Comparisons 1

Make your choice now!

Quick Take

The essentials that matter—nothing extra

A fast snapshot of the Shure SM56, covering its standout specification and what you can expect right out of the box.

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The Shure SM56 is a vintage-style Unidyne III microphone known for its smooth frequency response and reliable performance in both studio and live environments. Its solid build and balanced sound make it a great microphone for the price, offering classic character without compromising clarity.

Specifications & Facts 119

Specs measured. Drama avoided.

Sound matters. So do specs. The Shure SM56 lists 119 of them — from headline features like general information, dimensions & weight, audio performance & connectivity & interfaces to minor but mighty perks. Explore and vote.

General Information 18

Shure SM56 Country of Origin

What is the country of origin?

77 Shure SM56 0 Votes United States

61 Microphones in this range China

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Manufactured in the USA, the Shure SM56 showcases American engineering and craftsmanship. Shure is a well-established brand in the professional audio industry.

Manufacturing or design origin.

Shure SM56 Intended Use

What is the intended use?

72 Shure SM56 0 Votes Studio, Live, Broadcast, Video Recording

62 Microphones in this range Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Instrument, Streaming

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Designed for a wide range of professional environments, from studio recordings to live performances and broadcasting. It’s especially useful for clear, consistent vocal and instrument pickup.

Describes the primary application area.

Shure SM56 Compatibility

Which devices or platforms are compatible?

48 Shure SM56 0 Votes PC, Mac, iOS, Android, Mixer, Camera, Audio Interface

38 Microphones in this range Mixer, Audio Interface, PA System

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

This microphone is versatile and works with a variety of devices, including computers, mobile devices, and professional audio equipment. It can connect via standard audio interfaces for various recording setups.

Lists supported platforms and devices.

Shure SM56 Recording Application Category

What recording applications is it best for?

44 Shure SM56 0 Votes Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Field Recording

49 Microphones in this range Studio, Live, Podcast, Broadcast, Streaming

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Whether you're recording in a studio or broadcasting live, the SM56 is versatile enough for podcasting, field recording, and live sound applications. It captures clear, professional-quality audio.

Specific contexts where the mic is best suited.

Shure SM56 Product Type

What is the product type?

57 Shure SM56 0 Votes Dynamic

62 Microphones in this range Condenser

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

A dynamic microphone is known for its rugged durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for live sound applications. It works by converting sound into an electrical signal using a moving coil.

Defines the basic category of the microphone.

Shure SM56 Model Name

What is the model name?

52 Shure SM56 0 Votes SM56

55 Microphones in this range Super 55 Deluxe

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The Shure SM56 is a well-regarded dynamic microphone, specifically designed for vocal and instrument capture in broadcast and studio settings. It’s a reliable tool for professionals in a variety of audio applications.

The specific product identifier from the manufacturer.

Dimensions & Weight 9

Shure SM56 Width

What is the width?

1.25 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
2.83 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Equivalent to about 3.2 cm, the SM56 is compact, easy to hold, and portable for on-the-go use. It fits comfortably in hand for live performances or studio work.

The microphone’s overall width.

Shure SM56 Depth

What is the depth?

6.12 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
3.35 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Equivalent to 15.56 cm, the SM56 offers a balanced size for handheld use, ensuring good ergonomics without being too bulky. It’s a comfortable size for long recording sessions.

The microphone’s overall depth.

Shure SM56 Height

What is the height?

4.91 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
7.44 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

About 12.5 cm, the SM56 is compact enough to store easily in standard audio equipment cases. Its height is perfect for positioning during live and studio recording.

The microphone’s overall height.

Shure SM56 Package Width

What is the package width?

4.92 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
7.97 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Around 12.5 cm, the packaged width ensures it fits easily into most audio equipment bags. This measurement is consistent with the product’s overall compact design.

The shipping package’s width.

Shure SM56 Package Depth

What is the package depth?

6.12 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
6.99 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Equivalent to 15.56 cm, this dimension indicates the overall depth of the package for the SM56. It is ideal for shipping and storage purposes.

The shipping package’s depth.

Shure SM56 Package Height

What is the package height?

2.36 inch 0 Votes
Shure SM56
6.19 inch (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

About 6 cm, the package height ensures the product is securely packed and protected. It allows for easy stacking with other audio gear.

The shipping package’s height.

Audio Performance 12

Shure SM56 Off-Axis Rejection

What is the off-axis rejection?

20 dB 0 Votes
Shure SM56
25.4 dB (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

At 20 dB off-axis rejection, the SM56 excels at isolating the sound source, reducing unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This feature is key for high-quality live sound and recording.

Sensitivity drop when sound comes from the side/rear.

Shure SM56 Frequency Response (Min)

What is the minimum frequency response?

50 Hz 0 Votes
Shure SM56
32.81 Hz (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The frequency response starts at 50 Hz, making it suitable for capturing deep, rich tones in vocals and instruments. It ensures clear low-end reproduction.

The lowest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM56 Frequency Response (Max)

What is the maximum frequency response?

15,000 Hz 0 Votes
Shure SM56
19,048.44 Hz (Average)

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

At 15,000 Hz, the upper end of the frequency response allows for detailed capture of higher frequencies, suitable for a wide range of audio applications.

The highest frequency the mic can capture.

Shure SM56 Directionality

What is the directionality?

27 Shure SM56 0 Votes Unidirectional

43 Microphones in this range Unidirectional

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The unidirectional nature ensures it focuses on sound directly in front of the microphone, effectively rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This is useful in noisy environments.

General pickup orientation.

Shure SM56 Stereo/Mono Mode

What mode is supported?

7 Shure SM56 0 Votes Mono

30 Microphones in this range Mono

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Mono mode ensures a focused and clear sound capture, especially for live vocals and instruments. It is the most commonly used mode in performance and studio recording.

Determines recording mode.

Shure SM56 Voice Isolation Feature

Does it have voice isolation?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Lacking a specific isolation feature, this microphone is still highly effective for isolating vocals due to its cardioid pattern. It’s designed to reject unwanted background noise naturally.

Whether the mic includes isolation tech.

Connectivity & Interfaces 10

Shure SM56 Cable Detachable

Is the cable detachable?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

A detachable cable adds convenience, allowing for easy replacement and transport. It also reduces the risk of damage to the microphone itself.

Whether the cable can be detached or replaced.

Shure SM56 Audio Output Options

What are the audio output options?

27 Shure SM56 0 Votes Analog

43 Microphones in this range Analog, Balanced

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Analog output provides a natural, unprocessed signal that can be easily interfaced with various audio equipment. It’s perfect for professionals who require high-quality audio transmission.

Lists output signal formats available.

Shure SM56 Phantom Power Support

Does it support phantom power?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The SM56 does not require phantom power, making it suitable for use with devices that don’t provide this feature. It’s powered by the dynamic microphone design.

Whether the mic supports phantom power.

Shure SM56 Multi-Device Pairing

Does it support multi-device pairing?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

This microphone does not support multi-device pairing. However, its wired connection ensures stable audio transmission in standard audio setups.

Ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.

Shure SM56 Balanced/Unbalanced Output

What is the output type?

87 Shure SM56 0 Votes Balanced

72 Microphones in this range Balanced

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

Balanced output reduces noise and interference, ensuring a clean signal even over long cable runs. It’s essential for professional audio setups.

Defines the type of electrical signal output.

Shure SM56 Dual Output Capability

Does it have dual output capability?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Shure SM56
Shure SM56

The SM56 is not designed for dual output, but its single output is ideal for standard live and studio applications. It provides straightforward, reliable audio capture.

Ability to provide two simultaneous outputs.

Power & Battery 5

Shure SM56 Power Source

What is the power source?

17 Shure SM56 0 Votes Passive

53 Microphones in this range Phantom

Defines how the microphone is powered.

Shure SM56 Auto Power-Off

Does it have auto power-off?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether the microphone shuts down automatically when idle.

Shure SM56 Replaceable Battery Support

Does it support replaceable batteries?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if batteries can be swapped.

Shure SM56 External Power Supply Compatibility

Is it compatible with an external power supply?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Can the mic run on external AC/DC supply.

Shure SM56 Power Indicator Light

Does it have a power indicator light?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a light shows power/battery status.

Controls & Features 16

Shure SM56 Mute Function

Does it have a mute function?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to mute audio directly on the mic.

Shure SM56 Gain Control

Does it have gain control?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to adjust input gain directly.

Shure SM56 Headphone Monitoring

Does it support headphone monitoring?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Direct monitoring via headphone output.

Shure SM56 Monitoring Mix Control

Does it have monitoring mix control?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Lets user adjust mic vs playback audio mix.

Shure SM56 Touch/Motion Controls

Does it support touch/motion controls?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Allows interaction via touch gestures or motion.

Shure SM56 LED Indicator Lights

Does it have LED indicators?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Lights that show status such as mute, levels, or power.

Build & Design 17

Shure SM56 Body Material

What is the body material?

37 Shure SM56 0 Votes Metal

48 Microphones in this range Metal

The main structural material of the microphone body.

Shure SM56 Finish/Coating

What finish/coating does it have?

27 Shure SM56 0 Votes Matte

42 Microphones in this range Matte

Exterior treatment or surface finish.

Shure SM56 Shock Mount

Is a shock mount included?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibrations.

Shure SM56 Pop Filter

Is a pop filter included?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a pop filter is provided for plosive reduction.

Shure SM56 Windscreen

Is a windscreen included?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a windscreen is included for wind noise control.

Shure SM56 Water Resistance

Is it water resistant?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if the mic is resistant to water.

Package & Accessories 12

Shure SM56 Cables

Are cables included?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if connecting cables are provided.

Shure SM56 Carrying Case

Is there a carrying case included?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a protective carrying case is part of the package.

Shure SM56 Adapters

Are adapters included?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

States if adapter(s) are included (e.g., XLR to 3.5mm).

Shure SM56 Mounting Clip

Is a mounting clip included?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a clip for attaching to stands/instruments is included.

Shure SM56 Extra Windscreen

Is an extra windscreen included?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if a spare windscreen is included.

Shure SM56 Instruction Manual

Is an instruction manual included?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Whether a manual or quick-start guide is included.

Certification & Compliance 6

Shure SM56 Warranty

What is the warranty period?

1 years 0 Votes
Shure SM56
2.81 years (Average)

Duration of manufacturer warranty coverage.

Shure SM56 Safety Compliance

Is it safety compliant?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates adherence to safety regulations.

Shure SM56 Environmental Compliance

Is it environmentally compliant?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Compliance with eco/environmental regulations.

Shure SM56 FCC/CE Approval

Is it FCC/CE approved?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Explicit FCC/CE compliance approval.

Shure SM56 RoHS Compliance

Is it RoHS compliant?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive compliance.

Shure SM56 Professional Broadcast Certification

Is it broadcast certified?

Yes 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Indicates if the mic meets pro broadcast standards.

Advanced Features 14

Shure SM56 Multi-Pattern Switching

Does it support multi-pattern switching?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Ability to switch between multiple pickup patterns.

Shure SM56 DSP Processing

Does it include DSP processing?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Built-in digital signal processing for sound shaping.

Shure SM56 AI Noise Cancellation

Does it feature AI noise cancellation?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

AI-powered suppression of background noise.

Shure SM56 Beamforming Technology

Does it support beamforming?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Uses mic arrays to focus on sound sources.

Shure SM56 Voice Tracking

Does it include voice tracking?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Automatically follows speaker’s voice.

Shure SM56 Recording Profiles

Does it have recording profiles?

No 0 Votes Shure SM56

Yes Microphones in this range

Predefined sound settings for specific uses.

Surveys

Because hot takes deserve votes.

Shure SM56 Sound Quality

How would you rate the sound quality of this microphone?

Crisp and professional 0 Votes
Good and clear 0 Votes
Average clarity 0 Votes
Distorted and unclear 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Noise Handling

How well does this microphone handle background noise?

Blocks out most noise 0 Votes
Handles noise fairly well 0 Votes
Reduces some noise 0 Votes
Picks up everything 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Battery Life

How long does the battery last on this microphone?

Excellent — Over 20 hours 0 Votes
Long lasting — 10 to 20 hours 0 Votes
Decent — 5 to 10 hours 0 Votes
Short — 2 to 5 hours 0 Votes
Very short — Under 2 hours 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Durability

How durable is this microphone based on build and lifespan?

Highly durable — Over 4 years 0 Votes
Solid — 2 to 4 years 0 Votes
Average — 1 to 2 years 0 Votes
Very fragile — Less than 1 year 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Weight

How heavy is this microphone?

Ultra-light — Under 150 grams 0 Votes
Lightweight — 150 to 300 grams 0 Votes
Medium — 300 to 500 grams 0 Votes
Heavy — 500 to 800 grams 0 Votes
Very heavy — Over 800 grams 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Design Appeal

How attractive is the design of this microphone?

Plain and boring 0 Votes
Somewhat okay 0 Votes
Nice looking 0 Votes
Stylish and modern 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Pricing

How do you feel about the price of this microphone?

Great value for money 0 Votes
Pretty good price 0 Votes
Fair deal 0 Votes
Kinda pricey 0 Votes
Crazy expensive 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Sensitivity

How sensitive is this microphone to capturing sound?

Very sensitive — Detects quiet sounds clearly 0 Votes
Sensitive — Captures a wide sound range 0 Votes
Moderate — Picks up normal voice levels well 0 Votes
Low — Needs to be close to sound source 0 Votes
Very low — Struggles to capture soft voices 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Frequency Response Range

What do you think about the frequency response range of this microphone?

Wide range — 20 Hz to 20 kHz 0 Votes
Good range — 30 Hz to 18 kHz 0 Votes
Decent range — 40 Hz to 16 kHz 0 Votes
Limited range — 50 Hz to 14 kHz 0 Votes
Narrow range — Above 60 Hz only 0 Votes

Shure SM56 Connectivity

How stable and reliable is the connection of this microphone?

Excellent — Always stable, no dropouts 0 Votes
Good — Works smoothly with rare issues 0 Votes
Decent — Occasional minor disconnections 0 Votes
Weak — Disconnects sometimes 0 Votes
Poor — Frequently loses connection 0 Votes

Guides 1

Yes, we brought proof.

Files 1

Shure SM56 Manual PDF

shure.com
shure.com

Reviews 0

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Average Rating

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Shure
Shure SM56
Shure SM56
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