Thanks, Don ... I started using the transformer because all my mic cables were xlr to xlr and the transformer was the only xlr to 1/4" adapter I had ... I'll try an xlr to 1/4" ...

My mic cable has a small, slim-line transformer built into the ¼” jack, or vice versa. Don’t recall where I got it. I think it’s a Peavey. It’s not obtrusive and works great with the Shure Beta 58 mic.

I disagree, Don. There is a noticeable high end loss with out the transformer. It sounds terrible to me without it.