Microphones

It seems that it all started with a hand-held cone-shaped structure, open at both ends, whereby a voice directed into
the small end is amplified as it emerges from the big end. In the mid-1880s, some scientists were experimenting with
electromagnets and vibrating membranes to transfer sound over wires. In the early 20th century, Sidney N. Shure began
selling radio parts and soon became involved in developing new microphone designs. Now the SM57 and SM58—the "SM"
stands for "studio micrphone"—are considered by many to be the de facto standard microphones for certain applications.

The Shure SM57 is a popular choice for miking percussion, particularly various components of the drum set, and the output from the electric guitar amp. Some singers prefer it for vocals also. Since the 1960s it has been used for speeches by all of the U. S. presidents.	S H U R E	The Shure SM58 is probably used most for live vocal performances. The singers are trained to keep their lips close to their microphones, thereby getting a boost within the lower frequencies. A variation of the SM58 is SM58S, which includes an on/off switch.

The cage around the business end of the SM58 prevents the so-called plosives
that would be a problem for the vocalist "kissing the mic." Since the SM57
doesn't have that feature, a useful add-on is a windscreen such as this one.

Since the early 1960s, Jim Marshall's guitar amplifiers have served many
of the big names in the pop/rock industry. Ironically, he was a drummer
whose shop specialized in selling drum equipment. Not to be confused
with Marshall Amplification,* Marshall Electronics has a division named
MXL, founded by Leonard Marshall. MXL's three primary products are
microphones, microphones, and microphones. The design of the V93M is
typical of this brand, indeed of all brands primarily used for recording
and live broadcasting. The name "Mogami" on the case indicates that the
internal wiring was supplied by the Japanese company Mogami Cable.

*If I didn't want to confuse, why bring up the other Marshall?
The answer to that query is left as an exercise for the reader.

~ FURTHER READING ~

Microphone Stands

I know what you're thinking. . . . "Is that short stand useful for recording vocals by a Munchkin?"
Possibly, but it was acquired for the purpose of placing it in front of the kick drum in a drum kit.