Goldgenie’s 24k Gold Plated Shure SM58: When Iconic Sound Meets Bling
Goldgenie has taken one of the world’s most ubiquitous stage microphones and wrapped it in literal prestige: the 24k Gold Plated Shure SM58, finished with genuine 24-carat gold plating. Below is a detailed look at what the product is, how it’s made, what it means for sound and stagecraft, and who might actually want one.
The basics: what you’re looking at
The base microphone is the industry-standard 24k Gold Shure SM58 Microphone: a cardioid dynamic vocal mic known for a warm presence peak and rock-solid reliability on stage and in the studio. Goldgenie’s edition is the stock SM58 customized with a genuine 24k gold finish the company states a plating thickness of approximately five microns and offers the grille and body in 24k gold to create a completely gilded aesthetic. Goldgenie lists the customised SM58 on its shop and blog pages and positions it as a luxury, limited-edition offering.
Craftsmanship & plating process (what they actually do)
Goldgenie’s approach is a customization/plating service rather than a rebuild of the transducer. According to their product details they apply a multilayer coating culminating in a genuine 24k gold layer (not paint). The firm emphasizes careful surface preparation and controlled deposition. So the plating is visually flawless while preserving the mic’s mechanical fit and moving parts. Their product copy and blog posts highlight the five-micron gold finish and gold-plated grille as craftsmanship selling points. If you buy from them you’ll receive the mic as a luxury item with Goldgenie packaging and support.
Does the gold change the sound?
Short answer: not in any meaningful, permanent way and any perceived change is usually cosmetic or psychological. The SM58’s sound is defined by its capsule, internal damping and grille geometry; adding thin surface plating typically does not modify those internal acoustic properties unless the process alters or damages the capsule, magnet assembly, or grille geometry. Goldgenie explicitly states that the microphone “remains true to the technical brilliance” of the SM58 after customization. For an authoritative description of the SM58’s acoustic character (presence boost, cardioid pattern, durability), Shure’s product resources are the reference. In practice, buyers should expect the same tonal behavior that makes the SM58 famous, provided the customization was performed without altering internal components.
Practical considerations durability, handling & maintenance
- Durability: The 24k Gold Plated Shure SM58 is legendary for surviving drops and hard touring use. A plated exterior does not remove that base durability, but plated finishes can scratch, show fingerprints, or wear on high-contact areas. Goldgenie notes careful plating to preserve robustness, but gold is softer than most mic finishes. Treat it like a luxury instrument.
- Cleaning: Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning soft microfiber, avoid acid or ammonia cleaners. Abrasive polishing will remove thin gold layers. Goldgenie packaging and care notes typically advise delicate handling.
- Stage use: If you plan to use it nightly, consider whether you want the wear marks that come with real use; for many buyers the gold finish is intended more for presentation, VIP performances, or display.
Who is this for? (use cases)
- Performers who want a statement piece: Artists who use stagecraft and image as part of their act think televised performances, awards shows, luxury residencies.
- Collectors & corporate gifts: Limited or bespoke luxury gear is often purchased by collectors or as a high-end gift. Goldgenie positions many of its products (phones, watches, 24k Gold Plated Microphones) for collectors
- Studios / display pieces: A gold SM58 makes a strong visual in a high-end studio or as part of an artist’s trophy wall; many buyers may not intend heavy road use.
Price & availability
Goldgenie’s listing has shown the customized SM58 in the price range of high-three figures to low-four figures depending on options and region; at the time of the listing the UK price shown for their 24k SM58 was about £1,497 note prices, availability windows, and shipping vary and Goldgenie sometimes accepts crypto payments as well. If you want one, buy directly from Goldgenie’s store or enquire through their official channels.
Alternatives & comparisons
If you want a gilded mic purely for looks, there are cheaper novelty items and gold-colored replicas on the market. But they are not SM58s and won’t offer the same performance or build quality. If you want the exact SM58 sound plus luxe finish, a reputable customization (like Goldgenie). That advertises genuine gold and careful technique is a suitable route but always check warranty and whether the modification affects Shure’s original warranty.
Verdict who should buy it?
Buy it if: you value presentation as much as performance, want a collector’s or promotional piece, or need a unique stage prop that still behaves like a real SM58.
Think twice if: you need a rugged road mic for daily, heavy-use touring. Where cosmetic wear is a concern a standard SM58 will be cheaper and functionally identical in sound. In short: Goldgenie’s 24k Gold SHURE SM58 is less about improving audio. And more about making a loud visual statement while keeping the proven SM58 performance under the hood.
