Shure Super 55 Review

The Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone stands as a beacon of vintage-inspired design married with modern audio engineering. Known for its iconic Elvis Presley-esque look and robust performance, it has carved a niche in the world of professional audio equipment. Whether you’re a live performer, a studio vocalist, or a podcaster seeking a standout piece of gear, the Super 55 promises to deliver both in aesthetics and sound quality. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore its design, technical specifications, performance across various applications, and how it stacks up against competitors, all while assessing whether it lives up to its legendary reputation.

A Legacy of Design Excellence

Shure has long been synonymous with durability and quality, and the Super 55 is no exception. A direct descendant of the classic Shure 55SH Series II (often dubbed the “Elvis Mic”), the Super 55 refines its predecessor’s retro charm with modern enhancements. Released as part of Shure’s ongoing commitment to blending nostalgia with innovation, this microphone is a visual standout.

The Super 55 boasts a die-cast chrome-plated body that exudes vintage flair. Its bold, angular grille and sleek curves evoke the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, making it an instant conversation piece. Weighing in at approximately 656 grams (1.45 lbs), it feels substantial without being unwieldy—a testament to its rugged construction. The microphone’s satin chrome finish not only looks stunning but also resists scratches and wear, ensuring it maintains its luster even after years of use.

The integrated stand mount is another thoughtful touch. It swivels smoothly, allowing for easy positioning on stage or in a studio, and includes a 5/8-inch to 3/8-inch thread adapter for compatibility with various mic stands. While its size (7.4 inches long and 2.2 inches wide at the grille) might not suit every hand-held application, it’s perfectly proportioned for desk or stand use.

One minor critique of the design is the lack of a built-in on/off switch, a feature present in the 55SH Series II. While this omission keeps the aesthetic clean, it may inconvenience performers who prefer quick muting capabilities during live sets. Nonetheless, the Super 55’s design is a triumph of form meeting function—a microphone that looks as good as it performs.

Technical Specifications: Under the Hood

At its core, the Super 55 is a dynamic microphone with a supercardioid polar pattern. This design choice makes it highly directional, focusing on sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This is a significant upgrade over the cardioid pattern of the 55SH Series II, offering better off-axis rejection and feedback resistance—crucial for live performance environments.

The frequency response spans from 60 Hz to 17 kHz, tailored specifically for vocal applications. It emphasizes midrange clarity (around 1-5 kHz) to enhance speech intelligibility and vocal presence, while gently rolling off the low-end to minimize rumble and the high-end to reduce sibilance. The output impedance is a low 150 ohms, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of preamps and mixers, and it delivers a sensitivity of -53 dBV/Pa (2.24 mV)—typical for a dynamic mic of this caliber.

Unlike condenser microphones, the Super 55 requires no phantom power, making it a plug-and-play option for users without complex setups. Its dynamic cartridge is also less sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, adding to its reliability in diverse conditions. The microphone can handle sound pressure levels (SPL) up to 94 dB without distortion, which is adequate for most vocalists, though exceptionally loud singers might push its limits.

Sound Quality: How Does It Perform?

The true test of any microphone lies in its sound, and the Super 55 delivers a character that’s both distinctive and versatile. Its tonal profile is warm and full-bodied, with a pronounced midrange that cuts through mixes effortlessly. This makes it an excellent choice for vocals, whether singing or speaking, as it imparts a rich, authoritative quality to the voice.

In studio settings, the Super 55 excels at capturing vocals with a vintage vibe. Its slight low-end roll-off reduces proximity effect compared to some dynamic mics, though it still provides a pleasing bass boost when used up close. This makes it ideal for crooners or narrators aiming for a classic radio sound. The high-end attenuation ensures that harsh “s” and “t” sounds are tamed, resulting in a smooth, polished output that requires minimal EQ tweaking.

For live performance, the supercardioid pattern shines. It effectively minimizes bleed from stage monitors and instruments, reducing the risk of feedback even in noisy environments. During testing, the Super 55 maintained clarity when used in a small venue with drums and guitars in close proximity—a feat many cardioid mics struggle to achieve. Its off-axis rejection is particularly impressive, allowing performers to move freely without drastic changes in tone.

However, the Super 55 isn’t without limitations. Its frequency response lacks the extended highs of a condenser mic, so it may not capture the airy nuance of delicate vocals or acoustic instruments as well as something like the Shure SM81 or Audio-Technica AT4033. Additionally, its SPL handling, while sufficient for most, falls short of mics designed for extreme volumes, such as the Shure SM7B. For screamers or metal vocalists, it might not keep up without careful gain staging.

Applications: Where It Shines

The Super 55’s versatility makes it a compelling choice across multiple scenarios:

1. Live Vocals: Its retro aesthetic and feedback resistance make it a favorite for singers in rock, jazz, blues, and swing genres. It’s equally at home in small clubs or large venues, provided the sound engineer accounts for its SPL ceiling.
2. Studio Recording: Podcasters, voice-over artists, and vocalists seeking a warm, vintage tone will find the Super 55 a worthy companion. Pair it with a decent preamp (like the Cloudlifter for extra gain) and it rivals more expensive options.
3. Broadcasting and Streaming: The Super 55 has become a darling of streamers and YouTubers, thanks to its striking look and clear vocal reproduction. It’s a step up from USB mics in both quality and professionalism.
4. Instrument Miking: While not its primary purpose, the Super 55 can handle guitar amps or brass instruments in a pinch, though it’s less suited for delicate sources like strings or cymbals.

One area where it doesn’t compete is high-fidelity studio work requiring pristine detail—condenser mics still reign supreme there. But for its intended niche, the Super 55 is a standout performer.

Build Quality and Durability

Shure’s reputation for ruggedness holds true with the Super 55. The all-metal construction feels indestructible, capable of surviving drops, bumps, and the rigors of touring. The cartridge is shock-mounted internally to reduce handling noise, a boon for handheld use. The grille, while visually striking, is sturdy enough to withstand accidental knocks without denting.

During testing, the mic endured a simulated “drop test” from a low height onto a carpeted floor with no discernible damage or performance degradation. Its windscreen (sold separately as an accessory) further enhances its resilience by reducing plosives and protecting the capsule. For a microphone priced around $250 USD, this level of durability is a significant selling point.

Comparison to Competitors

How does the Super 55 stack up against similar mics? Let’s compare it to two notable contenders:

• Shure 55SH Series II ($199): The Super 55’s sibling offers a near-identical look with a cardioid pattern and slightly less refined sound. It’s cheaper and includes an on/off switch, but its feedback rejection and midrange clarity don’t match the Super 55’s.
• Shure SM58 ($99): The industry-standard SM58 is more affordable and versatile, with a flatter response and higher SPL handling. However, it lacks the Super 55’s visual appeal and tailored vocal warmth, making it less suited for stylistic applications.
• Electro-Voice RE20 ($449): A premium dynamic mic, the RE20 offers superior sound quality and versatility but at nearly double the price. It’s overkill for many Super 55 users and lacks the retro charm.

The Super 55 sits in a sweet spot: more polished than the 55SH, more characterful than the SM58, and more affordable than high-end options like the RE20.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Iconic, eye-catching design
• Warm, clear vocal reproduction
• Excellent feedback rejection
• Durable, road-ready build
• Versatile for live and studio use

Cons:

• No on/off switch
• Limited high-end detail
• Moderate SPL handling
• Premium price for a dynamic mic

Verdict: Is the Shure Super 55 Worth It?

The Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone is a triumph of style and substance, blending vintage aesthetics with modern performance. It’s not the most detailed or versatile microphone on the market, but it doesn’t aim to be. Instead, it targets users who value character, reliability, and a standout look—whether on stage, in the studio, or on camera.

At around $250, it’s a mid-tier investment that justifies its cost through build quality, sound, and brand heritage. For singers, podcasters, and performers who want to make a statement without sacrificing audio fidelity, the Super 55 is a near-perfect choice. If you need pristine highs or extreme SPL handling, look elsewhere—but for that classic, punchy vocal tone with a side of swagger, the Super 55 delivers in spades.

In a world of sleek, utilitarian mics, the Super 55 dares to be different. It’s not just a tool; it’s a piece of history reimagined for today’s creators. If you’re ready to step up your audio game with a microphone that’s as much a performer as you are, the Shure Super 55 deserves a spot on your shortlist.