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Today we review the legendary Shure 5575LE 75th Anniversary Vocal Microphone and let's dive into all the features, overall build, and design of this reincarnation of the legendary 20th century sound.
Everyone knows that Shure's strategy was always based on technical innovations outstanding features and best-quality devices for musicians, singers, broadcasters, audio engineers, and content creators. A long history of this brand has given us dozens of groundbreaking microphones, that helped musicians and singers hit the top of the charts, but there is a model that stands above aforementioned and of course, this is 55 Unidyne. More than 75 years ago Shure released an iconic microphone 55 Unidyne. During decades most celebrities used this microphone and made it even more iconic in the music world. Among them were such persons as Frank Sinatra, Billy Holyday, and of course Elvis Presley.
Since then this mic has been used on radio stations, meetings, and even in announcement halls on railway stations. This mic was the only one with a cardioid polar pattern and one dynamic element back then. This masterpiece had an internal transformer which is why its weight was above 600 grams. But enough history, let’s start our Shure 5575LE review and let's talk about the 75th-anniversary limited edition, that made this iconic model almost perfect technically.
Before writing the Shure 5575LE review, our editorial team thoroughly researched Shure's entire history of the evolution of the 55 model. On the official Shure website, there are 2 PDF files dedicated to the history of this microphone. We highly recommend you view and read them to get a feel for the meticulousness with which the engineers of the time approached the creation of audio devices. But enough history, let's take a closer look at what we have today.
Shure currently has three retro-style microphones in its arsenal: the Shure 55SH Series II, the Shure Super 55, and the Shure 5575LE. Unfortunately, the 5575LE microphone model was released in a limited edition of 5575 units. And at the moment you can only buy this microphone second-hand on eBay. As for the Shure 55SH Series II and the Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal microphone, we have detailed reviews and comparisons of these microphones at the link. Fortunately, the Shure 55SH II and Super 55 are still in production and high demand in the audio market.
The 5575le has the same design, which became more recognizable than the face of Richard Nixon. It is a fully metal plate with noticeable red foam and a brand logo. Metal Shure 36B desktop stand complements the overall design. There are no knobs and buttons only this monolithic structure, which has an elegant look and design is another reason to get it (besides the quantity limits of the edition). Also with this mic, you will get a flight case that looks expensive and solid so you can be sure that during transit or storage, this mic will be in safety. Moreover, the set includes photo prints of Unidyne models and a Certificate of Authenticity as a pleasant addition to the overall pack.
Now we come to the main part of our Shure 5575LE review.
The question is if the design of this model remains the same, does the hardware change? The answer is positive. Simple logic: how could this model remain popular if it was all the same inside? And it was not, so let's talk about innovations in hardware. Firstly, this model has the modern cardioid element "Unidyne" of the third generation. That is why it is impossible to say that the quality of the sound is excellent – it is an extraordinarily warm sound that automatically makes you a fan of this mic. Secondly, the connection type is presented with XLR sockets, which makes this model more responsive to contemporary trends.
The frequency response of this microphone ranges from 50Hz to 16000Hz and has an uplift in the midrange frequencies, which gives warmth to the sound that brings it closer to the original 55 model.
Based on our observations, we can safely say that a simple, untrained person will not be able to hear the difference in the recording of these microphones. The difference can only be heard with the very first Model 55, released in 1939, and the modern Model 5575LE, released in 2014.
To be honest, we don't see the point of comparing the Shure 5575LE and the Shure Super 55, because the 5575LE was produced in a limited edition and is more a microphone for collectors, connoisseurs, sound designers who want to have in their arsenal a microphone with a sound close to the 1939 model 55, and for professionals who want to pay tribute to history by buying the 5575LE.
However, there are significant differences between these two microphones. First, size: The Shure 5575LE is larger and heavier, but its body and dimensions are as close as possible to the original 55 model. Second, the Shure 5575LE has a cardioid polar pattern, while the Shure Super 55 has a supercardioid polar pattern. The 5575LE cartridge is a redesigned Shure SM58 wireless microphone cartridge, while the Super 55 cartridge is a redesigned Shure BETA 58A cartridge.
If you're looking for sound, the Super 55 is your choice (it sounds a bit cleaner than the 5575LE), but if you're a collector or connoisseur, you can look for the Shure 5575LE on eBay or Reverb.
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Best Price on Shure 55SH II Microphone
The Shure 55SH Series II Unidyne Microphone is a timeless and iconic piece of audio equipment that combines classic retro design with modern performance. |
Classic Package
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Best Price on Shure Super 55 Microphone
The Shure Super 55 Microphone is a contemporary take on the classic Shure 55 Unidyne, blending iconic design with modern microphone technology. |
Classic Package
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We cannot recommend Shure 5575LE to everyone as we did in 55SH and 55 Super Deluxe reviews because technically this model is not way better than 55 Super Deluxe and at the same time it is more expensive. This model was intended for true lovers of the Unidyne model, for those who want to have one and do not use it, just for the collection. And of course, this model is a must-have for every recording studio as a tribute of respect to this iconic model and the Shure company as well. Unfortunately, our SoundGale studio hasn't been able to get our hands on a Shure 5575LE yet, but we're hoping to buy one at a good price shortly.
We hope you enjoyed our Shure 5575LE review. Feel free to leave any questions or suggestions in the comments section below, and we'll be happy to respond.
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9.0
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