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Dr_simon
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 07/06/02
Posts: 5,021
Dr_simon
Guitar Tricks Instructor
Joined: 07/06/02
Posts: 5,021
02/20/2004 2:25 pm
Azrael.... shame on you !

AN SM57 doesn't need phantom power, it is a dynamic mic. just like a SM58.

However the SM57 does not produce a lot of signal, which means you need a relatively transparent preamp (lots of gain required and this can lead to lots of humm).

Solution, get a pre amp. You can pick up a Behringer pre on eBay for under 50 bucks. They are the real bottom end of the market but much better than not having a pre ! The pre will also (probably) be able to supply phantom power (do not try to power the SM57) for when you get a condenser.

I use SM57s all the time and they are one of my fave bits of kit. The fact that they are dynamic means that amongst other things they can handle very high SPLs great for recording a Marshall ! That said mine is usually used for vocals. It is funny, my voice sounds really horrible through an SM58 put almost passable through a SM57.... lovely bits of kit ! Good on drums too !
My instructors page and www.studiotrax.net for all things recording.
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