Download the entire twelve-page SHURE c. 1954 catalog:
DOWNLOAD: Shure_Microphones_1954_Catalog
Models covered include: Shure 333, 525, 300, 330, 55s, 556s, 51, 535, 530, 315; 430 Commando, 215, 715; A86A impedance-matching transformer; Slim-X, Monoplex, and Stratoliner; Green Bullet, Hercules, and Ranger; plus a wide range of tape heads and phono cartridges.
The Shure 55s and 556s (see images at left) are undeniably the most iconic of all microphones. Examples: when Elvis Presley got his postage stamp, he was pictured with a 55. When Eva Peron declared ‘don’t cry for me, Argentina,’ the Shure was there. (AFAIK).
For the curious: There are actually 4 different models of Shure Mic that get lumped into the ‘Elvis Mic’ designation. The 55s and and 556s seen on the left are the ‘small’ versions of the earlier 55 and 556. The ‘S’ means small.
As far as the difference between the 55(s) and the 556(s): the 55 is the ‘PA’ live-sound reinforcement version, and the 556 is the pro ‘broadcast’ version with improved frequency response and a built-in rubber isolation mount (hence the larger base), and presumably a better transformer.
*************
*******
***
Starting this month I am scaling back the monthly WPKN FM radio show to one…
Im back from 2 weeks in Japan, time that I primarily spent hunting for records.…
Available now on LoveAllDay Records : the new LP "Secular Music Group Volume 1"- avail on vinyl…
This month's Preservation Sound Radio program will air tonight Tuesday May 21 at 8:30 PM.…
This month on Preservation Sound Radio: nine side-filling tracks from 1970 thru 1986, all from…
This month's show airs Tuesday 2.20.24 at 8:30PM -11:25PM EST on WPKN 89.5 FM in…
View Comments
I just purchased a Shure 51S from an antique shop because I liked the look of it. Now I think it might be practical for group harmonies. How should I set up the impedance? I notice on ebay that somebody is selling cables that adapt to XLR. Would that be a good idea instead of using the 1/4 inch jack?
I also scored a 51s and have the exact same questions as Mark above. Also, the red grill clothe is that replaceable?
If you use this mic in a modern live nightclub setting it is practically guaranteed to feedback. the mic can be used with XLR yes, or 1/4: it is a variable impedance mic. c.
I BOUGHT A 55SH SERIES 2 MIC ON E-BAY AND I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS FROM THE 60'S, BUT THE CONNECTOR IS XLR INSTEAD OF AMPHENOL.. IS THERE A WAY TO DATE MY MIC? IT DOES'NT HAVE A SERIAL # ON IT...
THANKS VERY MUCH...
G.B.