Audix i5
One of the more successful
and blatantly direct
competitors of the SM57
to arrive on the scene in
modern times is the i5,
from Wilsonville, Oregon’s
own Audix. On paper and
in person the i5 bears a
striking resemblance to our
old friend. Both are cardioid
dynamic mics with similar
frequency response plots
and similar polar patterns,
and they are also of a similar
shape and size (perfect for
sliding deftly between a
snare drum and hi-hats).
To discern the difference
between these mics, you
simply have to listen. The i5
is like an idealized version
of the Shure; it still has that
mid-range emphasis but
with noticeably less mud
in the low mids, a natural,
clear sounding high end,
and some real thump in the
bottom end that translates
nicely when pointed at a
4x12 cab or a big tom.
In summation, it sounds
cleaner, smoother, and
more lifelike, but retains
the overall character
that guitar players and
recording engineers have
come to expect from a
dynamic guitar cabinet
microphone. The Audix i5
also sells for right around
100 bucks.
“... it sounds cleaner,
smoother, and more
lifelike...”
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