Shure makes the SM series of mikes. They're pretty much the industry standard. There are better mikes around, almost always at higher prices, but generally the Shures have the best combo of sound, reliability and durability (so tough they can be used to drive nails - an exaggeration, I'm sure, but I've seen SM58's that look like they've been used that way). Definitely the workhorse. Used ones might be found in the $100 range.

Now to uncertain ground; and disagreeing with someone of Rick's stature and experience is little more than just plain dumb on my part. A quibble, really. SM58's seem to be generally used as vocal mikes and SM 57's as instrumental, although there's very little difference between them (and I'm told some country performers are starting to use the 57's for vocals).

Oh-oh! that all was "tech talk", weren't it? I believe that's a fining offense.