For those folks out there that just want a decent mic that sounds pretty darn good without breaking the bank, I don't see how you can go wrong with this mic.  For $40 don't expect recording quality but don't be afraid to buy this mic if you are just starting out and playing small gigs with a small budget. This mic is  professional quality compared to some I've used to sing through in the past. I'm using it now as a vocal mic in a small jam band playing in senior citizens centers and nursing homes.  Heck, I'm an old guy that doesn't play the joints anymore, playing with some other guys in the same situation, so I've been through a lot of mics in my experience.  I really like this mic, it's well made and does a fine job in the setting I'm using it.  I am using it through a small Fender amp(20 watt) with a tiny bit of gain cranked in if that helps in any way.