Shure

Shure 520DX Green Bullet Harmonica Microphone

4.7 (458 reviews)
4 inch

The Classic Harmonica MicrophoneThe Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" is a legendary microphone known for its distinctive blues harp sound. Designed for comfort and performance, it features a volume control knob and high-impedance output. Type: Dynamic Frequency Response: 100 to 5,000 Hz Polar Pattern:...

$149.00*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Classic Harmonica Microphone

The Shure 520DX "Green Bullet" is a legendary microphone known for its distinctive blues harp sound. Designed for comfort and performance, it features a volume control knob and high-impedance output.

  • Type: Dynamic
  • Frequency Response: 100 to 5,000 Hz
  • Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
  • Impedance: High, unbalanced
  • Connector: 1/4-inch plug
  • Case: Green and chrome die-cast

Key Features

Volume control knob allows users to adjust the volume to fit each musical situation

Rugged, dynamic cartridge with improved response

High impedance, omnidirectional

Supplied with 1/4 inch connector

The 520DX is the first choice of microphone for blues harmonica players

Known as the "Green Bullet", it features a volume control knob and its base allows the user to make adjustments to suit their needs during live performances

Hand orientation: Ambidextrous

Specifications

Model
520DX Green Bullet
Cartridge Type
Dynamic
Pickup Pattern
Omnidirectional
Impedance
High impedance
Connector
1/4 inch connector
Controls
Volume control knob
Hand Orientation
Ambidextrous

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Features an integrated volume control knob, allowing precise volume adjustments for varying musical contexts during performances.
  • Equipped with a rugged, dynamic cartridge that offers an improved response, suitable for demanding blues harmonica playing.
  • Designed with high impedance and an omnidirectional pickup pattern, capturing sound from all directions effectively.
  • Comes supplied with a 1/4 inch connector, ensuring broad compatibility with common audio equipment.
  • Known as the "Green Bullet," it is a primary choice for blues harmonica players, indicating its specialized performance.
  • The volume control knob on its base facilitates real-time adjustments by the user during live performances.
  • Features an ambidextrous design, making it comfortable and accessible for both left and right-handed users.

👎 Cons

  • The omnidirectional polar pattern, while suitable for some uses, might be prone to picking up unwanted ambient noise in loud environments.
  • The high impedance design may require specific preamps or impedance matching devices for optimal performance with certain audio interfaces.
  • While ideal for blues harmonica, its specialized characteristics might not be as versatile for other vocal or instrumental applications.
  • Details on the specific frequency response or SPL handling capabilities are not provided, limiting technical comparison.
  • The microphone is supplied with a 1/4 inch connector, which may require adapters for systems primarily using XLR inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Shure 520DX includes a volume control knob on its base, allowing users to adjust the volume to suit each musical situation during live performances.
The Shure 520DX is supplied with a 1/4 inch connector, ensuring compatibility with many standard audio setups.
Yes, the Shure 520DX, often called the "Green Bullet," is notably the first choice of microphone for blues harmonica players due to its specific characteristics.
The Shure 520DX features an omnidirectional polar pattern, meaning it picks up sound from all directions around the microphone.
The microphone is equipped with a rugged, dynamic cartridge, known for its durability and improved response.