Between the SM58 and SM7B, the SM58 comes out ahead in several specs, while the SM7B wins on several specs. Overall, the SM58 scores 82 and the SM7B scores 82 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
These two are evenly matched on the broad strokes, with the decision sitting on which individual spec advantages weigh more for your use.
The SM58 doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
The SM7B 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, polar pattern, connection, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: there is no wrong answer here — match the spec advantages to how you actually use the product. The Mars Score parity tells you both are well-rounded; the differences are about trade-offs, not quality.
Why Shure - SM58 wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Shure - SM7B wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Spec
| Spec | Shure - SM58 | Shure - SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Frequency response | 50Hz–15kHz | 50Hz–20kHz |
| Max SPL | 150 dB | 150 dB |
Connectivity
| Spec | Shure - SM58 | Shure - SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | XLR | XLR |
| Headphone out | false | false |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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