Shure Super 55 Deluxe

There are many microphones or transducers depending on the brand such as the M850 DSP UHF microphone , the Blue Yeti Se Electronics models , etc. Then there are various models like the USB microphone , the P-Bass , the condenser microphone , wireless the speaker microphone , the pro microphone , the condenser microphone which does not need electrical bias voltage wireless lavalier microphone , etc.

Here, we have a dynamic type microphone . Like all dynamic microphones, it is very popular whether in studios or on stage . This is normal since a dynamic microphone is studio equipment that can be used as a recording microphone since it adapts perfectly to the chosen recording technique.

It can also be used as a studio microphone , as it is ideal for singing, voice-overs, etc. Be aware that there are several types of dynamic microphones, including the directional microphone , the omnidirectional microphone , etc. There is also what is called a microphone with a cardioid , hypercardioid or even supercardioid polar .

If in general, we find omnidirectional or cardioid microphones on the market, here we have a supercardioid model , dynamic type, with a receiver equipped with a coil which perfectly counters a magnetic field to reduce interference .

This is the Shure Super 55 Deluxe. This stereo microphone takes us straight back to the 70s with its retro design. He is also being talked about on the web, which caught my attention. So I tested it to see what it's worth. Is it right for you or should you look at another model?

Shure Super 55 Deluxe Microphone Overview

The Shure Super 55 Deluxe is a supercardioid dynamic microphone. For those who don't know, supercardioid is a polar pattern. There are several polar patterns like unidirectional, bidirectional, cardioid, omnidirectional, etc.

Regarding supercardioids, they are more directional . That is, they aim at specific angles . Sounds from the sides are often muted. The supercadioid mic is aimed more at sounds coming from the rear or front.

This Shure Super 55 Deluxe, following this directivity, looks a bit like a shotgun microphone . In addition to this directivity, it is a specialized microphone for voice . Certainly, there are some who use it for instruments like percussion and others, but that's not really its role. This is therefore not a multifunction microphone.

Despite this, it is still necessary to have it in the range of sound equipment, given that it has a beautiful design, that it does its job well and that it is robust. Let's see in detail what it's worth.

By the way, you can also discover our complete test guide for the Beyerdynamic M 88 TG . Discover in this guide our test and opinion on this dynamic microphone, as well as its sound quality and technical characteristics.

Focus on its legendary design

Regarding the design of this Shure Super 55 Deluxe, it immediately recalls the microphones of yesteryear. Dressed in a metallic body that houses a blue foam, this model will easily attract attention to itself on stage if the lighting is optimal. It will also motivate singers in the studio given its professional appearance . It really has nothing to envy of a Neumann (TLM 103 for example) or another microphone of this type in terms of style.

You will therefore have no trouble displaying it in public since it is both chic and elegant . Concerning the manufacturing quality of the Shure Super 55 Deluxe, we can say that it is robust . There are capsules there. This is where the sound waves enter.

Otherwise, there is also a swivel support. It is therefore possible to tilt this dynamic microphone. It can reach an angle of 125° . Even though there is this swivel stand, this microphone is perfectly suited to an arm, microphone stand or even a boom.

Feature-wise, it's a classic microphone , one that seems to come straight from the past. It does not contain an on/off button like new generation models. But even if this little detail is missing, it's a very modern microphone . It is equipped with a 3-pin XLR port and can be connected to a mixer or another device using an external power supply or phantom power.

In short, I have here a good stylish microphone like that of Elvis. This Shure Super 55 Deluxe is also robust since it is made entirely of metal . You can mishandle it as you wish without it damaging anything. Its beautiful blue moss is a change from the red moss we are used to seeing in films.

In addition, this color offers a nice contrast with the metallic gray of the exterior body. When you look at this mic, it feels like a 66SHT2 from the 50s mixed with modern touches. So it’s a vintage microphone for a modern audience. In terms of options, however, we are a little limited. I would have liked an on/off button. There is just a 5/8 thread . Fortunately there is the XLR port.

Zoom on the sound quality of the Shure Super 55 Deluxe

In terms of directivity, as explained a little above, we find here a Shure Super 55 Deluxe supercardioid. Unlike a microphone with a cardioid polar pattern like the Shure SM7B or the Neumann TLM 102 microphone, the directivity is more increased . The sensitivity is slightly high too. At the front, we have a sensitivity of up to 75 . It is then protected from all sounds coming from the sides (angle 127 to 233 ).

This Shure Super 55 Deluxe will target the sound it needs to capture, so surrounding noises will not be heard. This is a plus especially if you want the singer's voice to stand out amid monstrous noise . But this can also be a disadvantage for a gospel or other.

As for the proximity effect, note that the capsule used by this microphone has a diaphragm whose two sides are completely exposed to external acoustic pressure . This means that the proximity effect can be heard very well .

Regarding sensitivity, at the rear, it is reduced to -10 dB or more if the electric current is not reliable. This sensitivity is generally located in the axis. We cannot perceive it in the signal. Apart from these points, in terms of sound quality, the positive point is that there is no feedback except for the cymbals, but with a mixer equipped with a phantom power supply , this small defect can be rectified .

In terms of bass, midrange and treble, what I noticed is that this Shure Super 55 Deluxe offers warm sounds . Despite this, these warm sounds can also be a disadvantage. a condenser microphone does, whereas this is a dynamic microphone. It also seems that it does not have a high-pass filter since it does not attenuate low frequencies.

Besides that, for snaps, this Shure Super 55 Deluxe uses a pneumatic shock-mount system . The latter acts as a pop filter and ensures that tapping against the microphone is not heard. Despite this filter, we still hear handling noises.

Frequency

Regarding frequency response, the Shure Super 55 Deluxe does not outperform the Shure SM57 . The problem with the Shure Super 55 Deluxe is that it feels like it muffles the sound. There is a lack of transparency. Despite this, it is still heard even in a room where various noises reign.

In any case, those who have already tried models like a Sennheiser MK4 or an Electro-Voice will not be satisfied. Those who love Elvis' style will still be in heaven with this Shure Super 55 Deluxe. It’s not for nothing that he’s nicknamed “Elvismic”.

In short, this is what it looks like in terms of frequency curves. After testing, I noticed that there is a cutoff from 1 kHz . This then drops down to 150 Hz . I also noticed a fall right after. From 1 kHz , there is a rise and a remarkable constant from 2 kHz . There is then a gradual increase from 4.5 kHz . From 6 kHz to 8 kHz , there is a peak that goes up to 10 kHz .

We therefore have 60 Hz frequency for the bass and around 17 kHz for the treble. This frequency range makes this microphone perfect for vocals and singing . Compared to its predecessors like the 55SH , it offers a more balanced sound . This balance allows for a natural sound .

In addition, the sound pressure or SPL that its membrane can withstand is quite high. The microphone does not saturate easily. In the studio, this Shure Super 55 Deluxe can easily replace a USB microphone like the Rode NT USB pro microphone for example. It is even perfect for a home studio.

With this studio microphone , you will have optimal recording equipment . But it will only really be usable in voice. Even associated with a dynamic instrument or acoustic instruments, it will not be able to offer the result you are looking for. So, it will not be able to serve you on percussion, snare drum, guitar amp, and others.

Ergonomics and handling

This microphone can be used in the studio , on stage or elsewhere for vocals. The problem, however, is that it is difficult to find compatible pliers. On stage, this is a point that can be extremely blocking, because if the singer wants to walk the stage with this dynamic microphone, he must carry the stand with him.

Either that or, you have to unscrew the microphone. It can also be used as a handheld microphone , but it is a bit imposing and heavy. It won't be very practical. The best thing is to find an adjustable stand. This way, the microphone never leaves its place and we can take it with us anywhere on stage.

Concerning use as a boom microphone , this is a possibility that can be considered, especially given its supercardioid directivity. It is possible to attach it to a pole and carry it everywhere. Note, however, that it is a little heavy. You therefore need to have a bit of muscle in your arms to be able to use this microphone on a boom during filming for example.

In addition, you can also consult our complete test guide for the Blue Microphones Snowball microphone . Discover in this guide our complete test, as well as our opinions and the various details such as the sound quality, the technical characteristics of this condenser microphone.

The connection used

With its XLR connection, this microphone is compatible with many sound sources. You can connect it to the microphone level of an all-in-one sound system , to a microphone preamp , to a mixing desk , to recording equipment or to traditional audio interfaces.

You can even plug a microphone like this into a computer, but unlike dynamic microphones with a jack, the latter needs an external power supply or external sound card. It will be easy for you to find one.

Many cards are compatible with ATX or even micro ATX motherboards . You actually have to convert the analog format offered by the microphone into digital format. Without it, the computer will not be able to read the electrical signal.

As with a micro USB , the external interface is connected using a USB . This is a sort of analog adapter that allows you to plug this Shure Super 55 Deluxe into the microphone/line input of the computer . You must of course purchase the adapter since it does not come with the microphone.

The technical characteristics of the Shure Super 55 Deluxe

• Type: dynamic moving coil microphone
• Frequency: 60 to 17,000 Hz.
• Directivity: Supercardioid polar pattern
• Impedance and output level: 150 ohms to 290 ohms
• Sensitivity: – 53 dB

Our opinion on the Shure Super 55 Deluxe

In short, it is a microphone intended only for vocals and singing. You just have to find the right angle to speak, because otherwise, hello decibel drop. In any case, unlike an omnidirectional microphone, its supercardioid system eliminates surrounding noise, we will hear the singer.

However, it is impossible to use it on instruments. In terms of sound quality, it does what we expect of it, although sometimes you hear something like a muffling noise. Its sensitivity is not really detrimental even if you can hear the clicking and handling noises.

You can therefore walk around with this microphone anywhere on the stage. This would have been perfect if only it was lighter and could easily attach and detach with one foot. Its real asset is design. In that regard, it is impeccable.

Shure Super 55 Deluxe Mic Demo

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