Shure 520DX

The Shure 520DX is a dynamic microphone that is suitable for both in the studio or on the stage. While I have only used this microphone for recording, you can definitely use it for live shows as well, whether it be for harmonica or something else. It has a standard XLR connection and while it is designed for use with harmonica, it has a number of other possible applications in addition to the harmonica.

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using the Shure 520DX for about three years and have found it to be a great microphone for recording harmonica and a few other instruments. It is great for harmonica because it is possible to hold the microphone while one is playing so they can get an up close signal coming from the harmonica. While the Shure 520DX is really designed for this harmonica use, I have also had interesting success using this to record snare drum. While it wasn't a standard snare sound that I got, it had an interesting twang to it that works only in certain situations. In addition to these uses, I would encourage those who have this for harmonica to play around with it to see if it is useful in your situation for other things, as you can get some pretty cool sounds. This being said, I would really only recommend picking one of these up if you plan on using it for harmonica, as this is what it is best at and this is what it is designed for. The price of the Shure 520DX isn't too expensive at all, and is really a great value. Shure is known for making top quality microphones, and when it comes to recording a harmonica, the Shure 520DX is a great choice. Overall, another great microphone from the Shure company.

Harmonica microphone designed to be plugged into an amp.
It has a knob to adjust the gain.

OVERALL OPINION

How long have you been using?
Since 2005, I did a lot of concerts with this microphone. I had to do to fix 2008 as the membrane was broken (must say it was dropped a bunch of times).

Did you try many other models before buying it?
No, it was the only one available, I liked so I made the dark!

What is so special that you like most and least?
The gain knob is very convenient to mute the microphone when you do not play, also its setting changes the sound quite well. Attention on the other hand, it is placed in such a way that the key sometimes playing: it takes a little practice.

You should know that micro strong colors the sound it is intended to play blues typed: if you want a harmonica to his period Dylan Freewheelin 'is not what it should and easily share in feedback.

FYI, mine has also been used to record the song for a voice very saturated: it worked pretty well. To give an idea of ​​the record, I have seen in the documentary "It might get loud" Jack White was using this one for a piece of the Raconteurs.

How do you rate the quality / price?
Pretty good, if I had to repair mine, it is because of the abuse he suffered. Since it works again like the first day.

With experience, you do again this choice?
Yes, given my level fairly average harmonica, it is well suited to her that I seek.