Shure SM7B Review 2023

The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone that is widely used for broadcast, podcasting, and voiceover applications. It is known for its warm, smooth and natural sound, versatility, and ability to reject electromagnetic hum and noise. It requires an external preamp or mixing console for proper gain, and it is compatible with a range of microphone accessories for different recording setups.

Who should get the Shure SM7B?

The Shure SM7B is ideal for professionals and amateurs who are looking for a high-quality microphone for voice recording, including but not limited to:

• Radio and TV Broadcasters
• Podcasters
• Voiceover artists
• Singers and Musicians
• Streamers

It is also suitable for those who require a microphone that can effectively reject background noise and electromagnetic interference.

 

Polar pattern

The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the way it captures sound from different directions. The Shure SM7B has a switchable polar pattern which allows users to choose between several different options including:

• Cardioid: A directional pattern that captures sound primarily from the front of the microphone, while rejecting sounds from the rear and sides.
• Omni: An omnidirectional pattern that captures sound equally from all directions.
• Bidirectional: A figure-eight pattern that captures sound primarily from the front and back of the microphone, while rejecting sounds from the sides.

Having multiple polar pattern options gives users greater flexibility in choosing the right microphone configuration for their recording needs.

frequency responses

The Shure SM7B has a frequency response range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz, which means it is capable of capturing audio within this range of frequencies. However, it has a tailored response curve that emphasizes the vocal range (around 100 Hz to 8 kHz) while suppressing lower bass frequencies and high-frequency noise. This tailored response gives the SM7B its signature warm and natural sound, making it well-suited for vocal recordings. Additionally, the SM7B has bass roll-off and mid-range boost switches to further shape its frequency response to the user’s liking.

 

How does the Shure SM7B sound?

The Shure SM7B is known for its warm, smooth and natural sound that is well-suited for vocal recordings. It has a tailored frequency response curve that emphasizes the vocal range while suppressing lower bass frequencies and high-frequency noise. The result is a sound that is rich, detailed and balanced, making it ideal for a wide range of vocal applications. The SM7B is also capable of handling high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) inputs, which makes it ideal for use with loud sources such as electric guitars and drums. Additionally, the microphone’s switchable polar patterns and bass roll-off and mid-range boost switches provide further sound shaping options, allowing users to fine-tune the microphone’s output to their specific needs.

 

Shure SM7B vs. Rode NT-1

The Shure SM7B and Rode NT-1 are both high-quality dynamic microphones that are well-suited for vocal recordings, but there are some key differences between the two:

• Sound Character: The SM7B has a warm and smooth sound with a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the vocal range. The NT-1 has a more neutral and transparent sound, making it well-suited for recording a wide range of sources.
• Directionality: The SM7B has a switchable cardioid polar pattern that provides greater directional control, while the NT-1 has a fixed cardioid pattern.
• SPL Handling: The SM7B is capable of handling high SPL inputs, making it ideal for use with loud sources, while the NT-1 has a lower SPL handling capability.
• Noise Rejection: The SM7B is known for its ability to reject electromagnetic hum and noise, making it well-suited for use in noisy environments. The NT-1 has a lower self-noise level, making it well-suited for recording quiet sources.

Ultimately, the choice between the SM7B and NT-1 will come down to the specific needs of the user and the type of recording they are doing. Both microphones are excellent choices, but the SM7B may be the better option for vocal recording, while the NT-1 may be the better option for recording a wider range of sources.

Shure SM7B vs. Shure 55SH Series II

The Shure SM7B and Shure 55SH Series II are both dynamic microphones, but they have different designs and intended applications. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Design: The SM7B is a large, professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the 55SH Series II is a classic, vintage-style microphone with a unique appearance.
• Sound Character: The SM7B has a warm and smooth sound with a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the vocal range, while the 55SH Series II has a more bright and crisp sound that is well-suited for spoken-word applications.
• Directionality: The SM7B has a switchable cardioid polar pattern that provides greater directional control, while the 55SH Series II has a unidirectional (cardioid) pattern.
• SPL Handling: The SM7B is capable of handling high SPL inputs, making it ideal for use with loud sources, while the 55SH Series II has a lower SPL handling capability.
• Versatility: The SM7B is a versatile microphone that can be used for a wide range of vocal and instrumental applications, while the 55SH Series II is primarily intended for spoken-word applications.

Ultimately, the choice between the SM7B and 55SH Series II will come down to the specific needs of the user and the type of recording they are doing. The SM7B is a more versatile and professional-grade microphone, while the 55SH Series II has a classic look and sound that may be well-suited for certain vintage-style applications.

Shure SM7B vs. Shure SM58

 

The Shure SM7B and Shure SM58 are both dynamic microphones, but they have different designs and intended applications. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Design: The SM7B is a large, professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the SM58 is a smaller, handheld microphone that is commonly used for live performance applications.
• Sound Character: The SM7B has a warm and smooth sound with a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the vocal range, while the SM58 has a more bright and crisp sound that is well-suited for live performance applications.
• Directionality: The SM7B has a switchable cardioid polar pattern that provides greater directional control, while the SM58 has a unidirectional (cardioid) pattern.
• SPL Handling: The SM7B is capable of handling high SPL inputs, making it ideal for use with loud sources, while the SM58 is designed to handle the high SPLs of live performance applications.
• Durability: The SM58 is known for its rugged construction and ability to withstand the rigors of live performance, while the SM7B is more delicate and should be handled with care.

Ultimately, the choice between the SM7B and SM58 will come down to the specific needs of the user and the type of recording they are doing. The SM7B is a more professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the SM58 is a rugged and versatile microphone that is ideal for live performance applications.

shure sm7b vs Shure MV7

The Shure SM7B and Shure MV7 are both dynamic microphones, but they have different designs and intended applications. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Design: The SM7B is a large, professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the MV7 is a compact, portable microphone that is designed for podcasting and desktop recording.
• Sound Character: The SM7B has a warm and smooth sound with a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the vocal range, while the MV7 has a more neutral and transparent sound that is well-suited for a wide range of recording applications.
• Directionality: The SM7B has a switchable cardioid polar pattern that provides greater directional control, while the MV7 has a unidirectional (cardioid) pattern.
• Connectivity: The MV7 has both USB and XLR connectivity, making it ideal for use with a wide range of recording devices, while the SM7B is an XLR-only microphone.
• Ease of Use: The MV7 has built-in headphone monitoring and touch controls for adjusting volume and mute, making it a more user-friendly option for desktop recording, while the SM7B requires an external preamp for use.

Ultimately, the choice between the SM7B and MV7 will come down to the specific needs of the user and the type of recording they are doing. The SM7B is a more professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the MV7 is a compact and versatile microphone that is ideal for podcasting and desktop recording.

Summary

The Shure SM7B is a highly regarded dynamic microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording. Its warm and smooth sound, with a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the vocal range, makes it a popular choice among professional recording engineers and vocalists. The switchable cardioid polar pattern provides greater directional control, while its high SPL handling capability makes it ideal for use with loud sources. Some users report that it requires a bit of EQ to get the best sound, but overall it is considered a versatile and reliable microphone. It is also built with a rugged construction that is designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. In conclusion, the Shure SM7B is a high-quality microphone that is well-worth considering for anyone in need of a microphone for vocal recording.

Shure SM7B FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Shure SM7B microphone:

1. What type of microphone is the Shure SM7B?The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone.
2. What is the frequency response of the Shure SM7B? The frequency response of the Shure SM7B is tailored for vocal recording, with a frequency range of 50Hz to 20kHz.
3. What polar pattern does the Shure SM7B have? The Shure SM7B has a switchable cardioid polar pattern.
4. Is the Shure SM7B a condenser or dynamic microphone? The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone.
5. How does the Shure SM7B compare to the Shure SM58? The Shure SM7B is a larger and more professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, while the Shure SM58 is a smaller and more rugged microphone that is ideal for live performance applications.
6. What type of connectivity does the Shure SM7B have? The Shure SM7B has XLR connectivity and requires an external preamp for use.
7. Does the Shure SM7B come with a shock mount? No, the Shure SM7B does not come with a shock mount, but it is compatible with a range of third-party shock mounts.
8. Is the Shure SM7B a good microphone for podcasting? The Shure SM7B is a professional-grade microphone that is well-suited for vocal recording, but it is not designed specifically for podcasting. For podcasting, the Shure MV7 or a similar USB microphone may be a more suitable option.
9. How does the Shure SM7B compare to the Rode NT-1? The Shure SM7B and the Rode NT-1 are both professional-grade microphones that are well-suited for vocal recording. However, the Shure SM7B has a more tailored frequency response and a switchable polar pattern, while the Rode NT-1 has a more neutral and transparent sound. The choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific recording needs of the user.