Difference between Shure 58 and the Shure 58 "Beta" Microphones?

[shoot-r]

I'm wanting to get a mic of my own for "just in case" moments.

Most of the time I just go through whatever microphone is provided by whatever sound company we're using at that job.

Some of the sound crews say there's a huge difference between the Shure 58 and the Shure "Beta" 58.

I've read the manufacturer's write-up for the two Shure mics, but, I'd like some real world users opinions, is there a difference between the two besides the price?

 

[s0c9]

sure.. (pun intended)
The Beta's are the old 58's upgraded.. capsule, etc.. They are a little brighter than the 58.
Most FOH folks will be able to work with either one as they are as common as mud..

 

[Eric_Allard]

I believe the Beta 58 is hypercardioid whereas the regular is cardioid so it probably has better off axis rejection.

 

[Geri O]

The SM58 has a cardioid pickup pattern, the Beta 58A has a supercardioid pickup pattern.

The main place this matters is whether you need to use 1 wedge or 2 wedges. The SM58 is better suited for use with a single wedge, the Beta 58A is better suited with a pair. Any super-cardioid mic will have a small finger of response directly 180* off-axis, making it sensitive to use with a single wedge. And the SM58 works better with a single wedges because of its more-sensitive off-axis response.

Now....All of this is on paper. The specs matter, the issues and differences are real, but we love to split hairs, don't we.... I'm certain that sound guys everywhere have done gigs where either mic was successfully used in either wedge situation. It's when you have to have insanely loud monitors that the differences can bite you. Most folks buy either mic because of its sound, it's gain, whatever. And that's perfectly fine. I'm a weird egg....I prefer an SM58 to the Beta 58A because to my ear, it sounds smoother. The Beta sounds a little harsh, but I can always deal with it.

I know, and I'm sorry, but this will be no help....Either mic will serve you well. As will any number of other choices of vocal mics that are bound to be suggested to you before too long.

 

[Ballin'bass]

The beta is a bit brighter sounding. More pronounced upper mid range and highs. Better for vox than the standard 58, imo.

 

[GKon]

As stated above, the beta is brighter sounding, emphasising more of the treble in your voice.
Because I have a lot of treble in my singing voice I went with the non beta sm58 which made me sound a bit bassier.