Shure Super 55 vs. 556S: A Comprehensive Comparison

The Shure Super 55 and 556S are two of the most popular dynamic microphones on the market. Both mics are known for their durability, reliability, and sound quality, but there are some key differences between the two models. In this article, we will compare the Super 55 and 556S in terms of their design, performance, and applications.

Design

The Super 55 and 556S are both dynamic microphones, which means that they use a moving coil to convert sound waves into electrical signals. However, the two mics have different designs. The Super 55 has a cardioid polar pattern, which means that it is most sensitive to sound coming from directly in front of the microphone. The 556S has a supercardioid polar pattern, which means that it is even more directional than the Super 55. This makes the 556S less susceptible to feedback, which can be a problem in live sound reinforcement applications.

Another difference between the Super 55 and 556S is their size and weight. The Super 55 is slightly larger and heavier than the 556S. This may not be a significant factor for most users, but it is something to keep in mind if you are planning to use the microphone for extended periods of time.

Performance

The Super 55 and 556S both offer excellent sound quality. However, there are some subtle differences between the two mics. The Super 55 has a slightly warmer sound than the 556S, while the 556S has a more articulate sound. Ultimately, the best microphone for you will depend on your personal preferences.

In terms of frequency response, the Super 55 has a wider frequency response than the 556S. This means that the Super 55 can capture a wider range of frequencies, which can be beneficial for recording instruments or vocals.

Applications

The Super 55 and 556S are both versatile microphones that can be used in a variety of applications. However, there are some specific applications where each microphone excels.

The Super 55 is a great choice for live sound reinforcement applications. Its cardioid polar pattern helps to reduce feedback, and its warm sound is flattering to vocals. The Super 55 is also a popular choice for recording instruments, such as guitars and drums.

The 556S is a great choice for applications where sound isolation is critical. Its supercardioid polar pattern helps to reject unwanted noise, making it ideal for use in noisy environments. The 556S is also a popular choice for recording vocals in close proximity, as its articulate sound can help to capture every nuance of the performance.

Conclusion

The Super 55 and 556S are both excellent dynamic microphones that offer a great combination of sound quality, durability, and reliability. Ultimately, the best microphone for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, by understanding the differences between the two mics, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between the Super 55 and 556S:

Stories

Here are three stories that illustrate the different ways that the Super 55 and 556S can be used:

• A live sound engineer uses a Super 55 to microphone a vocalist. The Super 55's cardioid polar pattern helps to reduce feedback, and its warm sound flatters the vocalist's voice.
• A recording engineer uses a 556S to record a drum kit. The 556S's supercardioid polar pattern helps to isolate the drums from the rest of the band, and its articulate sound captures every nuance of the performance.
• A podcaster uses a Super 55 to record a podcast. The Super 55's warm sound makes the podcaster's voice sound rich and full, and its cardioid polar pattern helps to reduce background noise.

What We Learn

From these stories, we can learn the following about the Super 55 and 556S:

• The Super 55 is a great choice for live sound reinforcement applications.
• The 556S is a great choice for applications where sound isolation is critical.
• Both the Super 55 and 556S are great choices for recording.

Effective Strategies

Here are some effective strategies for using the Super 55 and 556S:

• Use the Super 55 for live sound reinforcement applications.
• Use the 556S for applications where sound isolation is critical.
• Use both the Super 55 and 556S for recording.
• Experiment with different microphone placement techniques to find the best sound for your application.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using the Super 55 and 556S:

• Do not use the Super 55 in applications where sound isolation is critical.
• Do not use the 556S in applications where a wide frequency response is required.
• Do not place the microphone too close to the sound source.
• Do not use the microphone in a noisy environment.

Pros and Cons

Here are the pros and cons of the Super 55 and 556S:

Super 55

• Pros:
  • Warm sound
  • Cardioid polar pattern
  • Durable construction
• Cons:
  • Not as good at rejecting feedback as the 556S
  • Not as wide of a frequency response as the 556S

556S

• Pros:
  • Supercardioid polar pattern
  • Articulate sound
  • Durable construction
• Cons:
  • Not as warm as the Super 55
  • Not as wide of a frequency response as the Super 55