moosers
Published on 08/29/11 at 12:32
The Shure 10A is a dynamic microphone suitable for purposes of all types. The mic is on the low end of the spectrum for Shure, but is still useful for practicing for sure. The mic is hand held and has an on/off switch on it. It will pick up frequencies between about 75 Hz and 15 kHz. It’s a standard cardioid mic, making it best to point the mic directly at your sound source.
OVERALL OPINION
While the Shure 10A isn’t the best microphone for any application, it’s super cheap and will be useful in some situations. Of course if you can afford it, it’s going to be a lot easier to pick up a Shure SM57 or SM58, but this can do if you’re looking to spend next to nothing. The setting that I’ve been using the 10A for has been with a PA system for practicing with my band. I use it for singing into a Peavey system and while it doesn’t sound great, it does get the job done. I don’t own the mic as it is included in our band’s practice space, so it seems easiest just to keep using it, although I do have a Shure SM57 at home which I know is a far superior microphone. I’ve never recorded with the 10A, so I don’t know how it stacks up for this application, although I wouldn’t bet on it being anything too special. I’m not sure if they are still making the 10A, but either way it’s a low cost option for a dynamic microphone, whether it’s new or used. Again, the 10A is far from a professional mic, so if you’re looking for something to record somewhat seriously with, I’d highly recommend spending a few extra bucks on a Shure SM57 or SM58, but when it’s not possible, the Shure 10A is an okay replacement.
OVERALL OPINION
While the Shure 10A isn’t the best microphone for any application, it’s super cheap and will be useful in some situations. Of course if you can afford it, it’s going to be a lot easier to pick up a Shure SM57 or SM58, but this can do if you’re looking to spend next to nothing. The setting that I’ve been using the 10A for has been with a PA system for practicing with my band. I use it for singing into a Peavey system and while it doesn’t sound great, it does get the job done. I don’t own the mic as it is included in our band’s practice space, so it seems easiest just to keep using it, although I do have a Shure SM57 at home which I know is a far superior microphone. I’ve never recorded with the 10A, so I don’t know how it stacks up for this application, although I wouldn’t bet on it being anything too special. I’m not sure if they are still making the 10A, but either way it’s a low cost option for a dynamic microphone, whether it’s new or used. Again, the 10A is far from a professional mic, so if you’re looking for something to record somewhat seriously with, I’d highly recommend spending a few extra bucks on a Shure SM57 or SM58, but when it’s not possible, the Shure 10A is an okay replacement.