Shure SM63 Review

When it comes to microphones, Shure is a name that commands respect. With a legacy spanning nearly a century, the company has built a reputation for producing reliable, high-quality audio gear that caters to everyone from bedroom podcasters to touring musicians. Among its extensive lineup, the Shure SM63 stands out as a dynamic microphone designed with a specific purpose in mind: broadcast and on-location recording. In this review, we’ll explore every facet of the SM63—its design, sound quality, practical applications, strengths, weaknesses, and how it stacks up against competitors—to determine whether it’s still a worthy contender in 2025.

The Shure SM63 is a handheld dynamic microphone first introduced as part of Shure’s SM (Studio Microphone) series, a family known for ruggedness and versatility. Unlike its more famous siblings—the SM58 and SM57, which dominate live music stages—the SM63 was crafted with broadcasters, interviewers, and field recordists in mind. Available in three lengths (SM63, SM63L, and SM63LB, with the latter two being longer variants), it’s a sleek, omnidirectional mic that promises clear voice reproduction in challenging environments.

Its lightweight build, durable construction, and tailored frequency response make it a favorite for TV reporters, ENG (electronic news gathering) professionals, and even podcasters who want a professional edge. But does it live up to the hype in a world increasingly dominated by USB mics and wireless solutions? Let’s break it down.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about the SM63 is its aesthetic. With its slim, elongated body and champagne or black finish (depending on the model), it exudes a retro sophistication that screams “vintage broadcast.” The microphone measures about 5.7 inches (14.5 cm) in the standard SM63 version, while the SM63L and SM63LB extend to 7.6 inches (19.3 cm) and 9.2 inches (23.3 cm), respectively. The extra length in the longer models is a practical touch for TV and film work, keeping the mic out of the camera frame while still capturing sound effectively.

Weighing in at just 2.1 ounces (60 grams) for the standard model, the SM63 is remarkably light. This is a big deal for anyone holding a mic for extended periods—think street reporters or documentary filmmakers. The body is made of aluminum, giving it a sturdy yet manageable feel. Shure’s signature durability is evident here; the SM63 can take a beating, whether it’s dropped on pavement or tossed into a gear bag.

The mic features a built-in windscreen and pop filter, a thoughtful inclusion for outdoor use. While it’s not as robust as an external windjammer, it does a decent job of taming plosives and light breezes. The omnidirectional pickup pattern is another key design choice, allowing it to capture sound evenly from all directions. This makes it less prone to proximity effect (the bass boost you get when speaking close to a directional mic), ensuring consistent audio no matter how the mic is positioned.

One minor gripe: the SM63 uses an XLR connector, which is standard for pro audio but requires an audio interface or mixer. In 2025, with USB mics flooding the market, this might feel like a step back for beginners who want plug-and-play simplicity. Still, for pros who already have the gear, it’s a non-issue.

Sound Quality

The heart of any microphone is its sound, and the SM63 delivers a performance tailored to its intended use: spoken word. Its frequency response spans 80 Hz to 20 kHz, with a gentle roll-off at the low end and a subtle boost in the mid-to-high range (around 2-6 kHz). This voicing enhances vocal clarity and intelligibility, making it ideal for interviews, narration, and live reporting.

In testing, the SM63 shines with its ability to capture natural, articulate speech. The omnidirectional pattern ensures that even if the speaker moves slightly off-axis, the sound remains consistent—no sudden drops in volume or tonal shifts. This is a huge advantage in dynamic settings like street interviews, where subjects might not stay perfectly still.

Compared to cardioid mics like the SM58, the SM63 picks up more ambient sound due to its omnidirectional design. In a quiet studio, this might introduce unwanted background noise, but in the field, it adds a sense of place that can enhance realism. For example, recording a bustling market scene with the SM63 captures not just the interviewee’s voice but also the lively atmosphere—something a directional mic might miss.

The low-end roll-off is a double-edged sword. It helps reduce handling noise and rumble from wind or traffic, which is great for outdoor use. However, it also means the SM63 isn’t the best choice for capturing deep, resonant voices or musical performances where bass presence is key. If you’re a baritone podcaster or a singer, you might find it a bit thin compared to, say, a Shure SM7B.

Noise rejection is solid for a dynamic mic, though it’s not as surgically precise as a hypercardioid model like the Electro-Voice RE50. In windy conditions, the internal windscreen holds up reasonably well, but for serious outdoor work, pairing it with a foam cover or blimp is recommended.

Practical Applications

So, who is the SM63 for? Its design and sound profile point to a few clear use cases.

Broadcast and Journalism: This is the SM63’s bread and butter. Reporters love its lightweight build, clear vocal reproduction, and ability to handle chaotic environments. The longer SM63L and SM63LB models are especially popular for on-camera work, keeping the mic discreetly out of sight.
Field Recording: Documentary filmmakers and audio engineers appreciate the SM63’s portability and omnidirectional pattern. It’s perfect for capturing natural dialogue or ambient soundscapes without needing pinpoint mic placement.
Podcasting and Voiceover: While not as common as condenser mics in studios, the SM63 can work for podcasters who prioritize durability and a broadcast-ready sound. Its lack of proximity effect is a bonus for hosts who move around while speaking.
Live Events: Though less typical, the SM63 can serve as a handheld mic for emcees or presenters who need something lightweight and reliable.

It’s worth noting what the SM63 isn’t suited for. Musicians looking to mic instruments or singers wanting a rich, full-bodied tone will find it lacking. It’s a specialized tool, not a jack-of-all-trades like the SM57.

How It Compares to Competitors

To put the SM63 in context, let’s compare it to a few rivals.

Electro-Voice RE50/B: Another broadcast staple, the RE50 is a dynamic omni mic with a similar mission. It’s slightly heavier (9.5 oz vs. 2.1 oz) but offers better wind and handling noise rejection thanks to its internal shock mount. The SM63 wins on portability and price (around $150 vs. $200 for the RE50), but the RE50 edges out in raw performance.
Shure SM58: The SM58 is a cardioid mic, so it’s more focused and rejects background noise better. It’s also cheaper (around $100) and more versatile for music. However, it lacks the SM63’s broadcast polish and omnidirectional ease.
Audio-Technica AT8004: This omni dynamic mic is a direct competitor, with a comparable price and rugged build. It has a flatter frequency response, which some prefer for neutrality, but it’s bulkier than the SM63.
Rode PodMic: A modern alternative, the PodMic is a dynamic mic aimed at podcasters. It’s cardioid, richer in tone, and pairs well with budget interfaces, but it’s heavier and less suited for handheld field work.

The SM63 holds its own in its niche—lightweight, broadcast-ready, and affordable—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Pricing and Value

In 2025, the Shure SM63 retails for around $150 USD, with the SM63L and SM63LB versions slightly higher at $160-$170. For a professional-grade dynamic mic, this is reasonable, especially given Shure’s track record for longevity. Used models can be found for under $100, making it an even better deal for budget-conscious buyers.

Considering its durability and specialized performance, the SM63 offers strong value for its target audience. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about field audio.

Final Thoughts

The Shure SM63 is a microphone with a clear identity. It’s not trying to be the loudest, flashiest, or most versatile mic on the block. Instead, it’s a refined tool for broadcast professionals, field recordists, and anyone who needs reliable, clear vocal capture in dynamic environments. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and tailored sound profile make it a standout in its class, even in 2025 when newer tech abounds.

That said, it’s not for everyone. Musicians, studio purists, and casual users might find its limitations—thin low-end, ambient noise pickup, and XLR-only setup—dealbreakers. For them, alternatives like the SM58 or a USB mic might be more practical.

If you’re in its target demographic, though, the SM63 is a gem. It embodies Shure’s ethos of purpose-driven engineering: it does one thing exceptionally well rather than trying to do everything. Whether you’re chasing breaking news, filming a documentary, or crafting a professional podcast, the SM63 is a trusty companion that won’t let you down.