Between the MD 445 and SM58, the MD 445 comes out ahead in max spl, while the SM58 wins on several specs. Overall, the MD 445 scores 91.2 and the SM58 scores 82 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The MD 445 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 9.2 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the MD 445 if you care most about max spl. The biggest gaps in its favor are max spl.
The SM58 similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
Both ship with comparable type, connection, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the MD 445 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Sennheiser - MD 445 wins
- ▲Max SPL — 4.67% more. 157 dB vs 150 dB.
Why Shure - SM58 wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Spec
| Spec | Sennheiser - MD 445 | Shure - SM58 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Polar pattern | Supercardioid | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 40Hz–20kHz | 50Hz–15kHz |
| Max SPL | 157 dBlead | 150 dB |
Connectivity
| Spec | Sennheiser - MD 445 | Shure - SM58 |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | XLR | XLR |
| Headphone out | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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