The Shure Green Bullet Microphone, known for its iconic midrange punch and ability to cut through music, first emerged in 1949 and has since become the definitive harmonica mic. When plugged in, this microphone adds a pleasing saturation to the sound, contributing to the beloved harmonica sound. Specially designed to fit comfortably in the player’s hands, the Green Bullet features a die-cast metal casing and is resistant to moisture, making it durable for years of touring.
Originally intended for speech, the Green Bullet microphone gained a reputation among musicians and made a significant impact on music. It was renowned harmonica player Marion “Little Walter” Jacobs who discovered the unique sound of the Green Bullet when plugged into a guitar amp. His raw and searing sound allowed the harmonica to stand out amidst the loud electric guitars of the time, propelling the instrument in a new amplified direction. In response to its crucial role in the blues sound, Shure refined the Green Bullet design specifically for harmonica players, resulting in the improved Shure 520DX, which remains the most popular harmonica mic in the world.
With the built-in volume dial of the Shure 520DX, harmonica players can have control over their sound, whether they want to be heard prominently or blend into the background. The microphone’s unique sound signature has also made it a valuable tool for recording engineers, particularly in capturing vintage vocals and adding a lo-fi flavor to mixes. Its saturated tone and compressed dynamic range also make it an excellent choice for drum miking, injecting excitement into tracks.
The Shure 520DX microphone features an instantly recognizable midrange sound associated with blues. It subtly saturates and distorts the sound in a pleasing musical way and is popular not only for harmonica but also for guitars, vocals, and drums to achieve distinctive lo-fi effects. Its omnidirectional pickup pattern allows for close miking without proximity effect. The attached cable can be plugged into guitar amps, audio interfaces, and high-impedance devices. The microphone also includes a volume knob for easy adjustments while performing. Crafted with durable die-cast metals, the Shure 520DX can withstand the rigors of touring, and its moisture-resistant components make it suitable for use in various conditions.
Specifications:
– Type: Dynamic
– Frequency Response: 100Hz-5kHz
– Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
– Connectors: 1/4 inch Jack
– Impedance: High Unbalanced Load
– Impedance Range: Minimum 100kOhm
– Sensitivity: -38 dBV/Pa – 13.00 mV/Pa
– Cable length: 6.1m (20ft)
– Weight: 737g
– Dimensions: Height: 82.6 mm, Width: 63.0 mm, Depth: 63.00 mm
