I can only choose one: SM57 or SM58?

[Jeff]

I only have enough money for one microphone, and I need the best mic at or around $50 that can record vocals and instruments well. Would you recommend the SM57 or the SM58, or some other mic?

[Two hands31]

Heard great things about both, only ever used a 58, and that was for live use through a really terrible PA in a gym. But I've heard the 57 is great for both, while the 58 is a little more suited to vocals (could be wrong though).

[screamndemon69]

58 is great for live vocals - never used it to record but i'm sure it is fine. the 57 works great for both as i have used it for both. i put one in front of my 4x12 w/ a 5150 crunching away and it sounded thick as hell and very meaty
i'd go with the 57 and down the road pick up a Beta 58 for vocals when you have the $.
Todd

[JESTER700]

Of the two, yeah - a 57. But $50 won't get you one. Another good one - same idea but cheaper by $20 is AKG D770. I got a 3 pack of these, and they're pretty flexible. Not quite as bulletproof as a 57 though, by the feel of it.

Is this for live or studio use?

[Distantshore]

I have only used the SM57 and believe this to be a good all around mic for the price. Best of luck.

[lemongrass]

I wouldn't stress too much about it, if you remove the screen they are the same microphone.

If you're going to be singing live then a 58 will take knocks slightly better. If it's just recording get a 57 and use a pop screen for vox.

To be honest tho' for not a great deal more you can get a much much better mic for vocals, so it's probably sensible to get a 57 which is good for the guitar and is ok for vocals and then get a better vocal mic later. I really like the beta57 on vox even tho' it's marketed as an instrument mic.

Good low cost vocal mics include the audix and shure beta's, senheisser (anything including the 845 and above are very good vor the money).

Cheers
John P.