Tag Archives: shure sm58

Man on the Street Handheld Tests: Shure SM58 vs Rode Reporter Mic

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Man on the street interviews are very popular. Just going up to someone and asking them questions or otherwise interacting with the public. I prefer using a handheld because I don’t have to take time to set up a lapel on a complete stranger, and I also get less background noise I risk getting if I used a shotgun.

In this video I test 2 well known handheld microphones for man on the street. The Shure SM58 is used for many, many things.  The Rode Reporter mic is aimed more for interviews. I recommend watching this video wearing good headphones and making your own decision on what would work best for you.

Shure SM58: Wired Vs Wireless

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The debate has faded when it comes to wired vs wireless, it is no longer “what is better?” as it is “what should I use?”.  Honestly what I hear the most is “why are we not using wireless?”

I still feel if I can get away with a wired microphone, that is what I go for. If the person is not walking around, and the wire is not a trip hazard, I see no reason to go wired. Although there is less chance of interference today vs ten years ago, I still feel like it is simply more reliable.

So what sounds better. I did a comparison video with 2 different types of the same microphone: Shure sm58.  This microphone is a staple of the audio/video industry and you can find at least one around any studio. When you watch this still keep in mind, this is what is sounds like in my camera (Panasonic HPX250) on auto mode with no post done on the audio. Processors make a big difference so just because it sounds like this on my camera, doesn’t be you won’t find a difference on another camera or soundboard. Another big thing is with wireless you have to have a receiver so it may sound different depending on the receiver you are using as well.