Shure 520DX – The Legendary Harmonica Microphone

The Shure 520DX, also known worldwide as the "Green Bullet", is undoubtedly one of the most iconic microphones designed specifically for harmonica players. Its classic look, solid metal construction, and distinctive, slightly distorted sound have made it a favorite among blues, rock, and lo-fi artists for decades. This dynamic microphone comes packed with practical features — including a built-in volume control knob and a permanently attached cable with a standard 1/4" jack plug. As a result, the Shure 520DX is ready to use straight out of the box, requiring no additional adapters or interfaces.

Product Features

• Iconic lo-fi tone — perfect for blues harmonica performances
• Built-in volume knob for real-time control of output level
• High impedance and 1/4" jack output — full compatibility with guitar amplifiers
• Omnidirectional polar pattern — great flexibility in mic placement
• Durable and ergonomic metal body — stage-ready construction

Authentic Character with Natural Distortion

The 520DX doesn't aim to be a neutral microphone. Quite the opposite — its sonic signature is intentionally tailored to color and "dirty up" the sound in a way harmonica players love. Its 100 Hz – 5,000 Hz frequency response is focused on the harmonic-rich range of the harmonica. The result is expressive, gritty, overdriven audio that requires no extra effects.

This unique tonal profile is exactly why the 520DX has become synonymous with blues harmonica microphones. Whether you're performing live in a club, jamming at a session, or recording in a home studio, this mic delivers the kind of raw, expressive tone that defines the genre.

Versatility – From Harmonica to Lo-Fi Vocals

Although the Shure 520DX was engineered with harmonica in mind, its applications don't end there. More and more musicians are using it to create lo-fi vocal effects — especially in retro, experimental, or alternative music styles. Its natural tendency to deliver a lightly distorted signal makes it an excellent tool for vintage-sounding vocals that stand out from clean studio microphones.

Its high impedance and built-in cable with a 1/4" jack plug allow for direct connection to guitar amplifiers, making it ideal for performers who value simplicity and quick setup on stage.

Technical Specifications

• Transducer type: Dynamic
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 100 Hz – 5,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: -38 dBV/Pa (13 mV/Pa)
• Impedance: High (approx. 100 kΩ)
• Output connector: 1/4" jack plug (unbalanced)
• Cable: 6.1 m (20 ft), permanently attached
• Weight: 737 g (1.625 lbs)
• Dimensions: 82.6 mm (H) × 63 mm (W) × 63 mm (D)
• Housing: Painted metal body, green finish

Materials and Build Quality

The Shure 520DX features a robust metal body, making it highly resistant to physical damage and well-suited for the demands of live performance. Its ergonomic shape fits comfortably in hand along with the harmonica, allowing performers to easily control sound dynamics. The retro-inspired green finish is not just stylish — it’s part of this microphone’s identity.

Included in the Box

• Shure 520DX dynamic harmonica microphone
• 6.1-meter (20 ft) permanently attached cable with 1/4" jack plug
• Factory packaging
• Manufacturer documentation

Conclusion – Why Buy the Shure 520DX?

The Shure 520DX is a truly unique microphone that not only meets the needs of harmonica players — it often exceeds them. Thanks to its distinctive lo-fi sound, convenient volume control, rugged build, and plug-and-play design, it has become a staple for top blues musicians. If you're looking for an authentic, raw harmonica tone in a mic that’s as durable as it is iconic, the Shure 520DX will not disappoint.