Brand names cost more than generic. You are just paying for the name. Example generic medicines are identical in formula to "brand names" just ridiculously cheaper. Similarily there are many mics who's specs and ruggedness are as good if not better than shure at similar or cheaper prices. It pays to be open minded and shop around. Try a direct comparison test using the various alternatives against a Shure and honestly see which one you think sounds best. We have done this experiment several times with various folk and different brands. Most time they either cannot tell or do not pick a Shure.