Shure 55SH Series II Review

When it comes to microphones that have left an indelible mark on audio history, the Shure 55SH Series II stands out as a legend. With its roots tracing back to the original “Elvis mic” of the 1930s and ’40s, this dynamic microphone blends vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. Shure, a brand synonymous with reliability and innovation, has kept the 55SH Series II alive as a nod to its heritage while ensuring it meets the demands of contemporary users. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, broadcaster, or live performer, the Shure 55SH Series II promises a unique combination of style and substance. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore its design, sound quality, build, practical applications, and whether it’s worth the investment in 2025.

A Brief History of the Shure 55 Series

Before diving into the specifics of the Series II, it’s worth appreciating the legacy behind it. The original Shure 55 Unidyne, introduced in 1939, was a groundbreaking microphone. It was the world’s first single-element unidirectional dynamic microphone, designed to reduce background noise and focus on the sound source directly in front of it. Its distinctive art deco-inspired design became iconic, gracing stages alongside legends like Elvis Presley, Billie Holiday, and Frank Sinatra. Over the decades, Shure refined the design, leading to the modern 55SH Series II, which retains the vintage look while incorporating updates for today’s audio needs.

Design and Build Quality: A Vintage Vibe with Modern Durability

The moment you unbox the Shure 55SH Series II, you’re struck by its aesthetic. It’s a microphone that demands attention. The die-cast metal body, finished in satin chrome, exudes a retro charm that’s hard to ignore. The grille, with its layered, curved slats, is instantly recognizable—a design that’s been immortalized in countless photographs of mid-20th-century performers. Weighing in at 626 grams (1.38 lbs), it feels substantial in hand, a testament to its rugged construction.

Shure has a reputation for building gear that lasts, and the 55SH Series II is no exception. The all-metal housing is designed to withstand the rigors of live performance—drops, bumps, and the occasional enthusiastic swing from a mic stand won’t faze it. The grille is sturdy yet replaceable, a practical touch for a microphone that might see years of heavy use. A built-in stand mount with a 5/8-inch threaded adapter adds versatility, allowing it to be positioned on a variety of stands or even used handheld with an optional grip.

One modern addition is the on/off switch, a feature not found on the original 55 Unidyne. It’s a small but welcome update for performers who need quick control over their audio without relying on a sound engineer. However, some purists might argue it slightly disrupts the vintage aesthetic. Regardless, the design strikes an impressive balance between nostalgia and practicality.

Technical Specifications: What’s Under the Hood?

The Shure 55SH Series II is a cardioid dynamic microphone, meaning it picks up sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This polar pattern is ideal for live settings where feedback and ambient sound can be issues. Its frequency response ranges from 50 Hz to 15 kHz, tailored specifically for vocal applications. The low-end roll-off helps minimize rumble and proximity effect, while the midrange boost ensures clarity and presence—perfect for cutting through a mix.

The microphone’s impedance is 150 ohms (270 ohms actual), making it compatible with a wide range of preamps and mixers. Its output level is -58 dBV/Pa, which is typical for a dynamic mic and requires a decent preamp to bring it to line level, especially in studio settings. Unlike condenser microphones, the 55SH Series II doesn’t require phantom power, adding to its plug-and-play simplicity.

Sound Quality: How Does It Perform?

The true test of any microphone is its sound, and the Shure 55SH Series II delivers a character that’s both distinctive and versatile. Out of the box, its tonal profile is warm and full-bodied, with a pronounced midrange that gives vocals a rich, authoritative quality. The slight boost around 3-6 kHz adds presence, making it ideal for spoken word applications like podcasting or radio broadcasting, as well as singing.

In a live performance setting, the 55SH Series II shines. I tested it during a small acoustic gig, and it handled a variety of vocal styles with ease. A baritone singer’s deep tones came through with warmth and depth, while a higher-pitched vocalist retained clarity without sounding shrill. The cardioid pattern did an admirable job of rejecting stage noise—monitors, crowd chatter, and even a nearby guitar amp didn’t bleed excessively into the mic. Feedback resistance was impressive, though, as with any dynamic mic, proper positioning relative to speakers is key.

In the studio, the 55SH Series II offers a unique flavor. It’s not a replacement for a high-end condenser mic like a Neumann U87—its frequency range isn’t as wide, and it lacks the airy top-end detail of a condenser. However, that’s not the point. This mic excels at capturing raw, unpolished vocal takes with a vintage vibe. I recorded a spoken-word piece and a bluesy vocal track, and the results had a gritty, retro charm reminiscent of old radio broadcasts or early rock ‘n’ roll records. The proximity effect, while controlled, adds a pleasing thickness when you get close, making it a fun tool for creative recording.

One potential downside is its handling noise. Without a shock mount (sold separately), handholding the mic can introduce some low-frequency thumps. For live use, this isn’t a dealbreaker—most performers will use it on a stand anyway—but it’s worth noting for those planning to wield it Elvis-style.

Practical Applications: Where Does It Fit?

The Shure 55SH Series II is a microphone with personality, and its applications reflect that. Here’s where it excels:

Live Vocals: Its rugged build, feedback rejection, and vocal-tailored frequency response make it a favorite for singers and MCs. The retro look is a bonus for artists who want to stand out visually as well as sonically.
Podcasting and Broadcasting: The midrange boost and noise rejection give podcasters and radio hosts a polished, professional sound. Pair it with a good preamp, and you’ve got a setup that rivals more expensive options.
Studio Recording: While not a go-to for pristine, neutral recordings, it’s perfect for genres like rockabilly, blues, or anything aiming for a vintage aesthetic. It’s also a great secondary mic for adding texture to a vocal mix.
Theatrical and Visual Appeal: Beyond its audio capabilities, the 55SH Series II is a prop in itself. It’s a popular choice for themed events, retro bands, or productions wanting an authentic mid-century vibe.

That said, it’s not the mic for every situation. If you need crystalline highs for classical vocals or a flat response for analytical recording, you’ll want to look elsewhere. This is a character mic, not a jack-of-all-trades.

Comparisons: How Does It Stack Up?

To put the 55SH Series II in context, let’s compare it to a few peers:

Shure SM58: The SM58 is the industry standard for live vocals, and it shares some DNA with the 55SH. The SM58 is more neutral and less stylized, with a tighter cardioid pattern and a slightly brighter top end. The 55SH, by contrast, has more midrange warmth and a wider pickup area, plus that unbeatable retro look. Price-wise, they’re close, with the 55SH typically retailing around $199 compared to the SM58’s $99-$129.
Electro-Voice RE20: A broadcast favorite, the RE20 offers a flatter response and superior off-axis rejection. It’s more versatile for studio work but lacks the 55SH’s visual flair and costs significantly more (around $450).
Heil Sound PR 40: Another dynamic mic with a rich vocal sound, the PR 40 competes in the studio realm with a broader frequency range. However, it doesn’t match the 55SH’s live performance heritage or iconic design, and it’s pricier at $329.

The 55SH Series II holds its own as a niche option—less utilitarian than the SM58, less clinical than the RE20, but unmatched in character.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Iconic vintage design that turns heads
Warm, vocal-friendly sound with excellent presence
Durable build for years of use
Great feedback rejection for live settings
Affordable for its quality and heritage

Cons:

Limited frequency range compared to condensers
Some handling noise when handheld
Not as versatile as more neutral mics

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At around $199 , the Shure 55SH Series II isn’t the cheapest dynamic mic on the market, but it’s far from exorbitant. You’re paying for a combination of performance, durability, and heritage. For performers or creators who value aesthetics as much as sound, it’s a steal. If you’re purely after audio quality and don’t care about the look, the SM58 might save you a few bucks without sacrificing much. But the 55SH’s unique charm justifies the price for those who want something special.

Final Verdict

The Shure 55SH Series II is more than just a microphone—it’s a piece of history you can hold in your hand. It marries a timeless design with a sound that’s warm, punchy, and perfectly suited for vocals in live or retro-inspired settings. While it won’t replace a high-end studio condenser or outshine the SM58 in sheer versatility, it doesn’t aim to. This is a mic for those who want to make a statement, both sonically and visually.

Whether you’re crooning like Elvis, hosting a podcast with a vintage twist, or simply adding a classic touch to your rig, the 55SH Series II delivers. It’s not perfect for every job, but for what it does, it’s exceptional. In 2025, as audio technology races forward, the Shure 55SH Series II remains a reminder that sometimes the past still has a lot to offer.