The SM57's frequency response spans from 40 Hz to 15,000 Hz. This frequency response is contoured and peaks at 5 KHz, which lends a crisp sound to the sources it captures. It also has a gradual roll off below 200 Hz, which prevents the build-up of low-frequency content.
The Shure SM57 has a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source you are capturing. This pickup pattern rejects sound from the back and sides of the microphone, which effectively reduces background noise and minimizes its susceptibility to microphone feedback.
In recording environments, the microphone is commonly used to capture snare drums, tom-toms, electric guitars and other various instruments. In live sound applications, the microphone is not only used on drums and guitar, but is also used to capture vocals. In fact, the SM57 can be found on the president's speech lectern.