Microphone vs. budget

[eupher61]

The SM 58 is a vocal microphone. Yes, it has a huge response range, but look at the spec sheet and you'll see that the low end drops off dramatically from about 150hz, and (although I can't find the appropriate chart for this) unless you have the mic down in the bell, the low range is a lot weaker also. It's called "Proximity Effect", and that's why most singers who use a 58 have the mic on their mouth. The farther away from the source, the less low end.

There's too much of the sound of our instruments which is finalized after the bell. I've had this argument here and elsewhere many times, and many scoff at me. But, unless (as bloke finally got me to concede) unless you're playing in a funk or other electric-type style, I don't want to hear your tuba or euphonium mic'd close. If you want a synthesized sound, fine, 'cause that's what you'll get.

Even the Shure website says "vocal" for the SM58. A 57 is a better choice, but still not strong in the bottom end. At least it doesn't have the proximity effect.

The Beta line has an even bigger dropoff in the lower range.

Find a decently priced 'kick drum' mic. That's a bass drum, and likely will have terrific response for tuba too. The Shure Beta 52A, though, has a lower mid/low response (ie, 100-300hz) range.+

The AKG D112 is probably out of your price range, but man, it works! Great response, good clarity. I once read a review that said it sounded even better backwards, used for a bass drum. Not IN the drum, but in front of it. I've used this in a few studio situations, and a couple of live situations, and it's terrific.

The AKG 418 (I think, can't get the site to pop up) is a great clip-on mic, wired or wireless. It's more appropriate for live than studio, IMO.

There used to be a clip-on mic made by Avlex, listed at about $200, but they've discontinued it. IT had the same response as the AKG 418, for about half the price.
Avlex now has one called the Superlux PRA-218B. I've not tried this, but I will ASAP. It appears to have everything I'd want, and I see one place listing it at $131.99. I'll do my best to get hold of one to try early this week, because now I'm wanting it! (Avlex is HQd not far from me, but I have no connection with them aside from being a satisfied user)

asbestos ON.

[Wyvern]

A slight alternative is a Zoom H2 or H4 recorder with builting condenser mics. an h2 is around 150 to 180 and records straight to an SD card for manipulation on your computer. I recently got one, and have been very pleased with the quality of recordings.

I have also recently got a H2 and would highly recommend. The recording quality from such a small and inexpensive device is very impressive. I am using a lot to record practice sessions and gigs which makes me far more aware of the sound I and my various tubas are producing.