Is the Shure SM57 a Condenser Mic?
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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No. The Shure SM57 is a dynamic microphone, not a condenser microphone. A condenser needs 48V phantom power to work, while a dynamic mic makes its signal without outside power, so the SM57 runs with phantom power off.
How to tell a dynamic mic from a condenser
Check the power the mic needs. A condenser microphone needs 48V phantom power from an interface or mixer, and without it the mic stays silent. A dynamic microphone makes its signal without outside power, so the SM57 works with phantom power off. The mic type is in the mic's own specs: condenser mics list phantom power as the power source.
What the SM57 needs to work
The SM57 plugs into an XLR input on an audio interface or mixer with a balanced XLR cable. It needs no phantom power, so leave the 48V switch off for its input. Set the input gain to suit your voice or instrument, and the mic is ready to record.
When a condenser mic is the right call
A condenser mic is the pick when the recording calls for a powered capsule and the interface has a 48V switch to run it. Check the mic's specs for phantom power before you buy, and check the interface has a 48V switch on the input you plan to use. Without 48V, a condenser stays silent, while a dynamic mic keeps working.
How to check any microphone you own
Read the mic's own specs for its type and power source. A condenser lists phantom power or 48V as its power source. If the specs name a polar pattern such as cardioid or hypercardioid, that tells you how the mic picks up sound, not whether it is a condenser. When the specs are unclear, check the maker's own page for the mic.
What you need
Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Podcast Microphone Hypercardioid
A hypercardioid dynamic microphone with an integrated shock mount and multistage windscreen, for podcasting, streaming and audio.
- XLR output
- Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
- 2-year warranty stated
Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Mic with Preamp
A dynamic vocal mic with a built-in preamp and selectable +18 dB or +28 dB of onboard gain, for streaming, podcasting and recording.
- XLR output
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- 2-year warranty stated
FDUCE SL40X XLR Dynamic Podcast Microphone
A cardioid dynamic mic with an XLR cable in the box, for vocal recording, streaming, gaming and voiceover.
- XLR output
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- 1-year warranty stated
- 1 lb, the lightest here
Rode RØDE PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
A cardioid dynamic broadcast microphone with an internal pop filter and shock mount, for podcasting, recording and broadcasting.
- XLR output
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- 2-year warranty stated
These come from our ranked list Best Dynamic Microphone, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Shure SM57 need phantom power?
No. The SM57 is a dynamic microphone, so it makes its signal without outside power. Leave the 48V switch off for its input.
Can phantom power hurt a dynamic microphone?
No. A standard dynamic microphone with a balanced XLR connection is not affected by phantom power, so 48V can stay on for an input it shares with a condenser.
How do I know if my mic is a condenser?
Read the mic's own specs for its type and power source. A condenser lists phantom power or 48V as its power source. A dynamic microphone makes its signal without outside power.
What cable does the SM57 use?
A balanced XLR cable, into an XLR input on an audio interface or mixer. The SM57 needs no phantom power, so the 48V switch stays off for its input.
Ranked dynamic microphones lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.