Shure 556S Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

Shure 556S Microphone Review: A Classic Dynamic Microphone for Professionals

The Shure 556S microphone, part of the renowned Unidyne II series, has been a staple in professional audio environments since its release in 1950. This dynamic microphone is designed for a range of uses including studio recordings, live performances, broadcasting, and public speaking presentations. With a reputation for solid construction and reliable performance, it’s no wonder the Shure 556S has stood the test of time. But does it still hold up in today’s competitive microphone market? Let’s take a closer look at the specs and features to see how it measures up.

Detailed Specs & Features

The Shure 556S offers a variety of features that make it a versatile choice for different audio applications. Let’s break it down. This dynamic microphone has a handheld form factor, making it easy to hold and position during both performances and speeches. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures that sound is captured from the front, while reducing unwanted noise from the sides and rear – perfect for both studio and live environments. The cardioid pattern contributes to its impressive 68 dB signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring clear audio reproduction even in noisy settings.

Built for durability, the Shure 556S features a metal body material, giving it the strength needed to withstand regular use on stage or in the studio. While the microphone does not come with built-in shock mount or pop filter, its internal shockmount offers some protection against handling noise. The 556S is compatible with a variety of devices, including PCs, Macs, iOS, Android devices, mixers, cameras, karaoke machines, audio interfaces, and PA systems, ensuring it’s ready for nearly any setup you might need.

Design & Build

In terms of design, the Shure 556S is both simple and robust. It sports a traditional silver color, which gives it a classic, professional look. The microphone has a 2.19-inch width and a height of 7.76 inches, making it compact yet substantial. The body feels solid, and it is comfortable to hold for extended periods. If you’re using it for a live performance or broadcast, its simple but effective design allows for easy handling while maintaining a strong, stable presence on stage.

Performance

On paper, the Shure 556S excels in its intended applications. The 40 Hz to 15,000 Hz frequency response range ensures that it captures a wide array of sound frequencies, from deep bass tones to crisp, high-frequency sounds. This broad range makes it suitable for both vocal and instrumental applications. The microphone’s -64 dBV/Pa sensitivity ensures that it picks up even the faintest sounds, though it may not be the best choice for environments where extreme precision and clarity are required, such as in high-end studio recording. For most practical uses, however, it delivers reliable performance, with decent proximity effect control for its class, though it lacks a dedicated proximity effect control.

Extra Features

While the Shure 556S is lacking some of the advanced features found in more modern microphones (such as DSP processing, noise cancellation, or multi-pattern switching), it remains a workhorse for live sound and broadcast purposes. It offers hum-compensating coil technology, which helps reduce electrical hum, a common issue when using microphones in environments with heavy equipment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable, metal construction for long-lasting performance
• Good cardioid pickup pattern for reducing ambient noise
• Ideal for live, studio, and broadcast use

Cons

• Lacks advanced features like noise cancellation and DSP processing
• No built-in pop filter or shock mount

Price & Value for Money

At $159.99 at Reverb, the Shure 556S offers a solid value for those in need of a durable, reliable dynamic microphone. It may not be packed with cutting-edge technology, but its tried-and-true design and performance make it a great choice for professionals looking for a dependable microphone for live performances or broadcasting.

Quick Take

The Shure 556S is a no-nonsense dynamic microphone that delivers reliable performance for live and studio use. While it lacks modern features like noise cancellation, it excels at what it does best: clear, consistent sound capture in noisy environments.

Closing Recommendation

If you're looking for a microphone with a rich legacy and solid performance, the Shure 556S will serve you well. It’s not the most feature-packed mic on the market, but for live performances and broadcast work, it’s hard to go wrong with its durable build and excellent sound quality.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe Shure 556S deserves 4.2 out of 5.

• Winner Feature → Reliable, durable construction perfect for live environments.
• Needs Improvement → Lacks modern features like DSP processing and noise cancellation.