The Shure SM57 is arguably one of the most popular and easily recognized microphones on the planet, with applications ranging from snare drum to guitar amplifier to sound reinforcement for politicians. Having its debut back in 1965, the SM57 has maintained a consistent presence on stage and in the studio due to its high-SPL handling capabilities, robust construction and affordable price.
Engineers are always prone to tinkering, and the SM57 is no exception. Countless articles and videos have been logged instructing users how to remove the stock transformer and wire the capsule straight to the XLR connector in an effort to smooth out the stock SM57’s midrange peak and improve transient response. (A quick side note: Removing the transformer also reduces output level by about 10 dB and makes the capsule prone to damage from phantom power).
One popular modification for the SM57 is replacing the stock transformer with the TAB-Funkenwerk AMI T58 transformer, a mod that’s not rocket science but does require a bit of work and some skill with a soldering iron to execute. Vintage King is now offering the Vintage King Shure SM57 VK Edition which incorporates the T58 transformer, so end users don’t have to grapple with the idea of ruining their trusty 57.
The Vintage King Shure SM57 VK Edition replaces the stock transformer with the T58, a premium, hand-wound transformer that’s made in the U.S. The mod addresses some of the stock 57’s frequency response anomalies and improves clarity and detail across the frequency range while retaining the 57’s signature aggressive midrange. At the same time, output level is maintained, and the transformer protects the capsule from possible damage due to phantom power.
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The Vintage King Shure SM57 VK Edition can be used anywhere a stock SM57 might be used: guitar cabs, snare drums, brass and vocals. It is available now at a street price around $229.
