Eliminating White Noise with the Shure SM-57 Microphone

Microphone technology has come a long way in recent years, with models like the Shure SM-57 offering improved sound quality and performance over standard microphones. However, even with the best microphones, unwanted white noise can still be an issue when recording or performing. In this article, we will address common causes of white noise when using a Shure SM-57 and offer tips for eliminating it.

Causes of White Noise
First and foremost, it's essential to understand the potential sources of white noise when using the Shure SM-57. These can include:

1. Ambient sound: This refers to the background noise present in the recording location. Air conditioners, fans, and other electronic devices can all contribute to this noise.

2. Microphone preamps: Many audio interfaces and mixers have built-in microphone preamps that, unfortunately, can introduce additional noise. The quality of your preamp may greatly influence the sound quality and noise levels.

3. Microphone positioning: The Shure SM-57 is a directional microphone, meaning its sensitivity to sound varies based on the direction from which the sound source arrives. Incorrect microphone positioning can lead to increased levels of white noise.

Tips for Eliminating White Noise
Now that we've identified the typical causes of white noise, let's discuss a few ways to eliminate it:

1. Choose a quiet recording environment: Eliminate sources of ambient noise by choosing a quiet location for recording. If possible, turn off any noisy devices during the recording session. You can also invest in soundproofing material if necessary.

2. Use a high-quality preamp: Instead of using the built-in preamp on your audio interface or mixer, consider investing in an external preamp specifically designed for low noise and improved audio quality.

3. Optimal microphone positioning: Experiment with different microphone positions and angles to find the best position for your specific recording needs. The Shure SM-57 performs best when positioned close to the sound source.

4. Use a noise gate: Noise gates are plugins or hardware devices that help in reducing the background noise by not allowing it to pass through. You can adjust the threshold level of the noise gate so that it eliminates mild hissing or white noise when a person is not speaking or singing.

5. Post-processing: Audio editing software such as Adobe Audition, Audacity, or Pro Tools offers tools for reducing background noise. Be cautious not to over-process the audio, as it can result in unnatural sounding audio.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can significantly reduce white noise when using the Shure SM-57 microphone and enhance the overall quality of your recordings or live performances.