Shure 55SH Series II

The Shure 55SH Series II is a cardioid dynamic vocal microphone with the iconic Unidyne look that has graced stages since the mid-20th century. Behind its classic die-cast chrome styling is a modern, vocal-tailored sound, a shock-mounted cartridge, and an on/off switch, making it a favorite for retro-styled performances, on-camera use, and live vocals.

Highlights

• Iconic Unidyne styling with chrome die-cast metal construction
• Cardioid pattern for higher gain before feedback and reduced bleed
• 50 Hz-15 kHz response with a gentle presence boost around 6.5 kHz
• Shock-mounted cartridge reduces handling and stand noise
• On/off switch for convenient muting
• Built-in swivel mount tilts 45 degrees forward and 80 degrees back

Shure 55SH Series II: Classic Look, Modern Sound

The 55SH Series II captures the visual style of the legendary Shure Unidyne microphones while delivering clear, contemporary vocal sound. Its cardioid pattern focuses on the singer and rejects off-axis noise and ambience, and a gentle presence boost helps vocals cut through a mix. It looks as good on camera as it sounds on stage.

Built for Performance

The dynamic cartridge is shock mounted to reduce handling noise and vibration from the stand, and the chrome die-cast body is tour-worthy. A self-tensioning swivel mount with 5/8-inch-27 threads is built in, so the mic mounts directly to a stand, and an on/off switch makes muting between songs or speeches simple.

Setting Up the 55SH Series II

Thread the built-in swivel mount onto a mic stand and connect the microphone to a mixer or powered speaker with an XLR cable; no phantom power is needed. Angle the mic toward the singer’s mouth and keep a consistent distance of a few inches. Aim the back of the mic toward stage monitors to minimize feedback.

What to Pair With the 55SH Series II

Pair the 55SH Series II with a vintage-style or chrome mic stand, a quality XLR cable, and a powered speaker or mixer for a stage look that matches its classic style.

Ideal for Style-Driven Performances

The 55SH Series II is a popular choice for rockabilly, jazz, blues, swing, and retro-themed performances, as well as for photo shoots, music videos, and broadcast sets where the microphone is part of the look. It delivers the vintage aesthetic without sacrificing modern reliability and sound.

Dynamic Mics for the Stage

Like other dynamic microphones, the 55SH Series II is rugged, needs no phantom power, and is less sensitive to distant sounds than condenser mics, which helps control feedback on loud stages. Its cardioid pattern further improves gain before feedback for clear, loud vocals.

A Piece of Microphone History

The Unidyne design dates back to the 1930s and became one of the most recognizable microphone shapes in music history, seen on countless stages and album covers. The 55SH Series II pays tribute to that legacy, giving performers a microphone that tells a story the moment they step up to it, while delivering the reliability expected of a modern Shure dynamic.

Shure 55SH Series II FAQ

Does it need phantom power? No. The 55SH Series II is a dynamic microphone.

Does it have an on/off switch? Yes.

Shure 55SH Series II Specifications at a Glance

• Type: dynamic
• Pickup pattern: cardioid
• Frequency response: 50 Hz-15 kHz
• Switch: on/off
• Mount: built-in swivel, 5/8-inch-27 thread
• Construction: chrome die-cast metal
• Connector: XLR-3

Who Buys the Shure 55SH Series II

• Vocalists in vintage-style acts
• Jazz, blues, and rockabilly performers
• Broadcast and video productions
• Venues and event planners

Why Buy the Shure 55SH Series II From Metro Sound & Lighting

Metro Sound & Lighting isn’t a catalog-only retailer. We design, install, and service sound systems in-house, so our team can help you choose the right microphones and support your system after the sale. We offer B2B and integrator pricing for churches, schools, and venues.

Browse more options in our Vocal Microphones category, or see the full specifications on the official Shure 55SH Series II product page.