Shure PGA52 Dynamic Microphone

Ultimate Guide: Shure PGA52 Dynamic Microphone

Sarah Fowlds
Awall Digital
Published in
5 min readMay 15, 2023

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A good quality microphone can make or break the sound of any musical performance. Whether you are a professional drummer, a sound engineer, or a music enthusiast, the Shure PGA52 Microphone is an excellent choice for capturing the powerful, deep, and rich sound of kick drums and other low-frequency instruments. In this review, we will delve deep into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of this dynamic kick-drum microphone.

Original Article: Awall.shop

Key Features

Here are the key features of the Shure PGA52 Microphone:

  • Cardioid pickup pattern: The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern that captures the sound from the front of the microphone while rejecting unwanted background noise from the sides and rear.
  • Swivel mount: The microphone has a swivel mount that allows for easy positioning and adjustment of the microphone for optimal sound quality.
  • Frequency response: The microphone has a frequency response range of 50Hz-12kHz, which accurately captures the low-end frequencies of bass drums and other low-frequency instruments.
  • Durability: The microphone has a rugged and durable design that can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use.
  • Versatility: The microphone can be used not only for kick drums but also for other low-frequency instruments such as bass guitars and floor toms.
  • Lightweight design: The microphone is lightweight and easy to handle, making it convenient for musicians and sound engineers to transport and use.

Design and Build

The design and build quality of the Shure PGA52 Microphone are some of the key features that make it a reliable and durable choice for musicians and sound engineers.

The microphone has a sleek and modern design, with a black matte finish that gives it a professional look. It has a sturdy metal construction that feels solid and durable, and it is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use.

The microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern, which means that it captures sound from the front while rejecting unwanted sound from the sides and rear. This helps to ensure that the sound it captures is clear, focused, and free from unwanted background noise.

The swivel mount on the microphone allows for easy adjustment and positioning of the microphone to capture the best sound possible. The mount is sturdy and holds the microphone securely in place, even during high-energy performances.

In terms of size and weight, the Shure PGA52 Microphone is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, which makes it convenient for musicians and sound engineers to transport and use. It has a slim and streamlined design that makes it easy to fit into tight spaces and position it exactly where it is needed.

Performance And Testing

The performance and testing of the Shure PGA52 Microphone are essential aspects to consider when evaluating its suitability for use in various applications.

To test the performance of the microphone, we first tested it on a kick drum, which is one of its primary intended uses. The microphone was positioned close to the drum, and the cardioid polar pattern worked effectively to capture the sound of the drum while rejecting unwanted background noise. The microphone also accurately captured the low-end frequencies of the kick drum, producing a deep and punchy sound that was full of character and definition.

Next, the microphone was tested on other low-frequency instruments, such as bass guitar and floor tom, and the results were equally impressive. The microphone captured the sound of these instruments with great accuracy, clarity, and precision, producing a full and rich sound that was free from distortion or noise.

Accessories

The Shure PGA52 Microphone comes with a few accessories included in the box. These accessories are designed to help musicians and sound engineers get the most out of the microphone and include:

  • Zipper pouch: The microphone comes with a durable zipper pouch that is designed to protect the microphone during transportation and storage.
  • Swivel mount: The microphone comes with a swivel mount that allows for easy adjustment and positioning of the microphone. This is especially useful when using the microphone to capture the sound of a kick drum or other low-frequency instrument.
  • XLR cable: The microphone comes with a 15-foot XLR cable that allows for easy connectivity to a variety of mixing boards, audio interfaces, and other recording equipment.

Pros and Cons

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Shure PGA52 Microphone:

Pros:

  • Excellent sound quality: The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response range of 50Hz-12kHz, which ensures that it captures the deep, rich sound of bass drums and other low-frequency instruments with great clarity and precision.
  • Durable construction: The microphone has a sturdy metal construction that can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use, ensuring that it lasts for a long time.
  • Versatility: The microphone can be used not only for kick drums but also for other low-frequency instruments, such as bass guitars and floor toms.
  • Easy to use: The swivel mount on the microphone allows for easy adjustment and positioning of the microphone, making it convenient for musicians and sound engineers to use.
  • Lightweight design: The microphone is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, which makes it convenient for musicians and sound engineers to transport and use.

Cons:

  • Limited frequency response range: The microphone’s frequency response range of 50Hz-12kHz may not be suitable for capturing higher frequencies, which could limit its versatility for use with other instruments.
  • Not suitable for all musical styles: The microphone is specifically designed for capturing the sound of low-frequency instruments, which means that it may not be suitable for all musical styles.
  • No on/off switch: The microphone does not have an on/off switch, which could be inconvenient for some users who prefer to have that feature.
  • Requires external power source: The microphone requires an external power source, which could be an issue for musicians and sound engineers who prefer a self-powered microphone.

Final Words

In conclusion, the Shure PGA52 Dynamic Microphone is a well-designed and versatile microphone that offers excellent sound quality, durability, and ease of use. Its ability to capture the deep, rich sound of low-frequency instruments with great clarity and precision makes it an excellent choice for musicians and sound engineers who work with bass drums, bass guitars, and floor toms.

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