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Shure 565SD Review - Classic Vocal Microphone

December 13, 2023

Now it's time for the last part of the "Classic" microphone line from the good guys Shure. Today it's their iconic vocal microphone and our review of the Shure 565SD. The Shure 565SD dynamic vocal microphone is a versatile and reliable piece of audio equipment that has proven its worth in a variety of applications. Known for its rugged design, dynamic performance, and classic appearance, the 565SD has become a staple for musicians, broadcasters, and sound engineers.

Like other mics in the series, this model is similar to the original models that were used everywhere, not only on the most famous stages and festivals (Woodstock, for example) but also by many people around the world in public places and especially in their own homes when karaoke systems hit the market. Sometime later, the SM58 was released, based on the concept of the 565SD. So today it is Vocal Legend, and today it is 565SD. As usual, let's start our Shure 565SD review with the technical specifications.

Best Price on Shure 565SD Classic Vocal Microphone

The Shure 565SD Unisphere I Dynamic Microphone stands as a testament to Shure's legacy of producing durable, reliable, and versatile audio equipment.

Shure 565SD box package Classic Package

Shure 565SD Specifications

  • Microphone Type: Dynamic
  • Form Factor: Handheld
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
  • Cartridge: R65
  • Cartridge Shock Mount: Vibration protection for manual operation on stage
  • Frequency Response: from 50Hz up to 15000Hz
  • Impedance: Dual-impedance operation (more in overall build and features section) /  rated EIA rated at 150Ω (250Ω actual)
  • Sensitivity (at 1,000Hz, open circuit voltage): Low −56.0dBV/Pa (1.6mV) / High −34.0dBV/Pa (20mV)
  • Connector: 3-pin XLR
  • Switch: Built-in magnetic reed on/off switch, can be locked. To lock the switch in the ON position, remove the screw on the lockplate and turn the lockplate 180°. Reassemble and tighten the screw.
  • Housing: Chrome-plated die-casting with steel mesh grille
  • Size: L 163mm x Ø 51mm
  • Net Weight (without cable): 298 grams (0.656lbs)
  • Set includes: Shure 565SD microphone, Shure A25D swivel mount for mic stands (some packages include 25' XLR to XLR Cable, check before purchasing)

Overall Build and Features 

With its line of classic microphones, Shure has decided to reincarnate good old-fashioned 20th-century microphone models, keeping its commitment to vintage design and giving them a modern twist. And the 565SD is one of them, one of the "timeless classics". The Shure Classic Line includes quite a few microphones, 6 in total: Shure 55SH Series II, Shure Super 55, Shure 5575LE, Shure 520DX Green Bullet (microphone for harp players), Shure 545SD and 565SD. We highly recommend that you check out the review with audio samples of the legendary "Elvis" 55SH and Super 55 microphones.

The 565SD features the iconic Unisphere I design, rugged metal construction, and a sleek satin chrome finish. Not only does this microphone look timeless, but it is also built to withstand the demands of live performance and studio use. The handheld design allows easy maneuverability, making it a practical choice for stage and studio use.

Shure 565SD microphone from side

An overall external and internal concept is rather similar to 545SD but there are some differences. This microphone looks more commonplace and a bit more elegant all because of its spherical pop filter. As well as the 545SD model this guy is super tough and it will be a difficult task to damage it seriously. The filter is durable too, wire-mesh grille keeps the durability mark. We even don’t recommend you buy a case for it if you are going to transport it, just keep the connecter in a clean place and you are good to go. So, the external design is solid and looks like a pure classic. 

As 545SD it is a rather monolithic structure, and there is only one switch on the shell which is magnetic (it will switch silently). And of course, it is lockable. Also, Shure 565SD has a selectable dual-impedance option. Information about changing the impedance can be found in the microphone user guide. Note, that the microphone does not require phantom power because it is dynamic.

A couple of words about the Shure A25D swivel mount from the package bundle. This kind of mounting and mounting threads are used everywhere now, so it will not be a problem to find a good mic stand for it.

Sound Quality

As usual, one of the main parts of our review on the Shure 565SD as with any other microphone is the Sound Quality section. Let's take a closer look at what Shure has brought to us in this regard.

Equipped with a dynamic R65 cartridge, the 565SD delivers a clear and natural sound. Its tailored frequency response captures a wide range of sounds, making it suitable for vocals, instruments, and a variety of audio sources (so far, this microphone is still very popular with karaoke enthusiasts and it's perfect for the task). Uplifts in the midrange frequency response further color vocals and speech, saturating it with warmth and pleasant transients. The microphone's ability to handle high sound pressure levels ensures distortion-free performance even in noisy environments.

Shure 565SD Frequency Response
Shure 565SD Frequency Response

The cardioid polar pattern improves sound isolation by focusing on the sound source while minimizing background noise. This is especially beneficial in live situations where controlling feedback and unwanted ambient noise is critical.

Of course, many microphones sound much better, but they also cost a lot more. The Shure 565SD can still compete with mid-priced condenser microphones, and it sounds about the same as today's best-selling microphone in the world, the Shure SM58. If you're into studio recording and post-production, the Shure 565SD is frankly not the best choice. For the most part, this microphone is designed more for stage, live performances, convention halls, hotels, public auditoriums, stadiums, schools and churches, etc.

Here are some Shure 565SD recorded audio samples:

Shure 565SD Blues Harmonica & Vocal Live Recording (audio example)
Shure 565SD Electric Guitar Recording (Gibson SG - Marshall Head Amp - Marshall Cab)
Shure 565SD Electric Guitar in Rock Mix (Marshall Head Amp - Bogner Cab)

Shure 565SD vs Shure SM58

The Shure 565SD is very often compared to the Shure SM58. To be honest, when we were preparing our Shure 565SD review, we didn't see the point of comparing these two microphones, since they have the same form factor, polar pattern, size, price, and even weight - for the most part, they're identical. The only difference is the coloration of the body and spherical mesh grille, Shure 565SD has an R65 dynamic cartridge, and Shure SM58 has an R59 cartridge. But despite the different cartridge names the microphones have almost identical frequency responses. Unfortunately, we can't say which of these microphones is better. It's like asking the question: -Which color is better, blue or red? Some people will like blue, some will like red.

Shure 565SD vs Shure SM58

But it's worth noting that Shure 565SD is still the elder brother of the SM58 mic model. The Shure SM58 is a continuation of the 565 model's design and construction. There is another technical difference between these two microphones: The 565SD is a dual-impedance mic, while SM58 is only a low impedance. If the Shure 565SD is set to high impedance, the SM58 will require a Shure A95UF transformer to equal the sound of the 565SD.

One last thing, we have a recording of an electric guitar for an audio comparison of three mics: Shure SM57 vs Shure SM58 vs Shure 565SD. And honestly, our editorial team couldn't find any clear differences in the sound of these three microphones. We also have a giant review on the Shure SM58 where you can hear recorded audio samples on this mic and compare the sound quality to the Shure 565SD.

Shure SM57 vs SM58 vs 565SD (First SM57 / Second SM58 / Third 565SD)

Final Verdict on Shure 565SD

Another classical model, another really good model from Shure. Many years of successful utilization proved the quality of sound of this microphone. All these features make it an excellent choice for sophisticated home users and usage in public places. Whether you're a musician looking for a dependable stage microphone or a broadcaster in need of clear and articulate sound reproduction, the Shure 565SD continues to be a reliable and durable option in the world of dynamic microphones. The mixture of good performance and elegant time-tested design put this model on the same level as the iconic 55. So don’t hesitate to choose 565.

We hope you enjoyed our Shure 565SD review. Feel free to leave your comments in the section below. We will be happy to answer any questions or suggestions you may have.

Pros
  • Nice Price / Quality Ratio
  • Timeless Design
  • Dual-impedance option
  • Durable Construction
  • Versatile Sound. Suitable for vocals, instruments, speech and broadcasting
  • Dual-Impedance Option
  • Lockable Silent On/Off Magnetic Switch
  • The metal spherical grille acts as a pop filter
Cons
  • Limited features: Lacks advanced features found in more advanced microphones. For this price, condenser microphones produce better sound quality and are more suitable for studio work. But despite the fact that the microphone is a bit outdated - it produces excellent sound, has additional branded accessories and replacement parts.
8.5
/10
Our Score

2 comments on “Shure 565SD Review - Classic Vocal Microphone”

    1. That's right, The 565SD was also made in Mexico! A bit of history, the first 565SD microphone models were manufactured by Shure in USA in the 1970's / 80's. Then Shure moved manufacturing from the USA to Mexico and since the 1990s, the Shure 565SD started on a production line in Mexico. Which country is currently producing the Shure 565SD-LC? - we can't say for sure.

      Shure currently has parallel production lines in China and Mexico. And here's a response (8 month ago) from a Shure rep from one of the Reddit's threads: "We've been making microphones in both China and Mexico for many years now, and some of the most popular models are made in both places. We monitor quality (both mechanical and acoustic) constantly during production so that our products sound consistent no matter which plant they are manufactured in."

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