Shure SM7B Vs AKG C214. These people have the budget to buy any microphone they want, but they choose the Shure SM7B. It’s also really small and allows for a minimal and stream-lined cable setup. Joe Rogan uses the SM7B to record his mega-hit podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. (Image credit: Sennheiser) Sennheiser e609 The e609’s flat-fronted grill means that this dynamic mic can be positioned extremely close to guitar cabs, just like the SM57. Here are some people that it wouldn’t suit: Shure’s SM7B is an XLR microphone, which means you’ll need a female to male XLR cable to connect the mic to a preamp or audio interface (more on those setup options later). Are you sure your settings are correct? That means SM7B needs minimum 60db of gain. The Shure SM7B is an industry standard dynamic microphone. Keep the Cloudlifter, get another phantom power supply so my AT2020 will work with it, and live happily ever after. Close. You can use the Shure SM7B without a preamp, but adding gain can be helpful if you’re going to be recording speech (i.e. Here are the full specifications for the SM7B: Don’t worry, we’re going to unpack all of these technical terms for you, and explain in simple english just what the Shure SM7B is capable of. Some … The Shure SM7B is an XLR microphone which I don't know much about, so I was wondering how much an XLR interface and cable would cost me. Similarities & Differences Similarities. This is not a handheld mic so there’s no need to remove the mounting attachment. In this review, we break down exactly what you’ll be getting if you buy a Shure SM7B microphone: how it works, who it’s right for, how it performs in different environments, whether you need preamps and, most importantly, how it sounds. Some even use them during live performances. You can see a direct comparison of the SM7B vs MV7 here. Shure themselves recommend adding +60 dB of gain through a preamp for optimum SM7B recordings. Shure sm7b or audio technica 2020 Follow. The Shure SM7B works well for close-up vocal recordings, including voice overs and spoken word. To be clear, the Shure SM7B is being tested on a Zoom H6 portable recorder. pros and cons. The Blue Yeti is a good all-rounder. Cardioid refers to the pickup pattern of a microphone. Miley Cyrus used a Shure SM7B microphone to record a cover of Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here for Saturday Night Live from home (the image is a bit grainy, but you can listen to the full performance here). Upvote +1 Downvote. Features include wide-range frequency response, bass roll off and mid-range control, and internal air suspension shock isolation. You can connect the Shure SM7B to your computer via USB by using a USB audio interface, like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. Even though they are completely different beasts, a lot of people seem to want to … You can buy replacement Shure windscreens if something happens to your originals: this is the standard RK345 windscreen, and this is the thicker A7WS close-talk windscreen. Dynamic Mic. It’s used by NPR and retails at over $3000. Here are all the differences you need to know about. To make it easier to get your head around, here’s a rundown of the main groups of people already using SM7B mics. You can use Shure’s SM7B with or without the optional windscreens attached. If you’re using a preamp with the Shure SM7B, watch out for the preamp’s own electronic noise adding hum to your recordings. It might be an all-star mic, but it’s not ideal for everyone. Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. Upvote +1 Downvote. I will also include the SM7A for clarity’s sake. What’s the difference between the Shure SM7B vs Rode NT1? For singing or recording loud instruments, you could manage without. If you want a longer list of artists to watch/listen to that record on the SM7B, skip to our list here. It’s cheaper than the Cloudlifter, and is designed to improve signal to noise ratio and provide +29dB gain. In microphones, output impedance is a measurement of AC resistance. They are using a Cloudlifter CL-2, which is a 2-channel version, but if you’re only using one microphone, the single channel Cloudlifter CL-1 would give the same results. Take the Neumann U87 microphone, for example. Our podcast is me and Rob and usually a guest. The SM58 is renowned for it’s on stage prowess, specifically for vocals. This is because the Cloudlifter adds its own gain. All dynamic microphones will pick up hum to some extent. Use the supplied A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications, such as voice overs or radio announcements, as it offers maximum protection from plosive breath noise and creates a warmer, more intimate sound. But enough with the history lesson, let’s get down to the numbers. This is one of the most popular microphones used for YouTube videos. Shure SM7B sensitivity is -59 dBV/Pa[1] (1.12 mV). AT2035s are great for the … The price exceed the benefit. You won’t find a self-noise score for the Shure SM7B because it is a dynamic (moving-coil) microphone and therefore self-noise is negligible. Have a listen to the demo reel of Pamela Gregory, a voice over artist, to get an idea of sound quality. Many modern microphone preamps, which are designed for the “hot” output level of condenser microphones, provide only 40 to 50 dB of gain. According to Shure, the Cloudlifter does not provide enough gain on its own to enhance speech recording on the SM7B. This means that, as a dynamic mic, the Shure SM7B is more durable and can handle high sound levels without distortion, whereas, as a condenser mic, the Rode NT1 gives lower noise levels, needs less gain, but requires phantom power. For many podcasters, Shure's SM7B just may be the holy grail of microphones. If you buy the standard Shure SM7B, you’ll get: You get not one but two detachable windscreens bundled with the SM7B – one is flat and the other thicker and domed (this is better suited to talking closer to the mic). Both mics put forward a pretty good case and are well deserving of your hard-earned dollar, and both Audio-Technica and Shure are big names in pro-audio that you know you can trust. Also my co host gets loud and you can see it through my mic across the table. Listen to any episode from these popular podcasts recorded using SM7Bs: Listen to these voice recording examples, all recorded on the SM7B: Listen to (and watch) these musical performances, with vocals recorded on an SM7B: Listen (and watch) Twitch and YouTube streamers using SM7Bs to broadcast: There are a few accessories and companion products that pair particularly nicely with the Shure SM7B. That’s why many of us turn to a Shure SM7B alternative. What’s the difference between radio and podcasts these days, anyway? By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. So Audio-Technica AT2050 tends to get more favorable ⭐ reviews than Shure MV5, as seen on the chart below. The SM7B is an update on Shure’s famous SM7 microphone, which was first introduced in 1976 and became famous as the microphone used to record Michael Jackson’s Thriller album. I like this clean, minimal setup. Watch this video to hear difference between the Shure SM7B with and without a Cloudlifter and see which you prefer (listen with headphones for best results). If you want to record onto your computer via a Shure SM7B, you’re probably going to need a USB audio interface. 6th June 2011 #6. evangelista. kkushalbeatzz The original, diabolical, kkushalbeatzz . The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone, whereas the Rode NT1 is a condenser microphone. The terminology here is confusing, because audio interfaces will usually also be preamps, so you only need to get one. The included switch cover plate is simply a little disc that prevents accidental switching while you’re recording. Plug it straight into your computer without additional preamps or interfaces. This is late but might be helpful to anyone who has the same problem. In simple terms, if you speak normally into an SM7B mic with your lips on the foam (which is around 1 Pascal), you’ll get output of 1.12 mV, which equates to a signal level of about -59dBV (decibels). You can plug headphones into your computer, audio recorder or audio interface to monitor sounds. AT2020 vs. SM7B . The Shure SM7B is a cardioid dynamic microphone. According to Shure, the SM7B requires around a preamp with at least 60 dB of gain for speech recording. It has been the flagship of Shure’s dynamic mic product line for years, and has a reputation for being a go-to studio mic for numerous sources, including vocals. Popular comparisons. The Shure SM7B is also popular with radio stations. The Rode NT1 has no settings to configure. Shure SM7B Review. Generally the AT2020 will probably be preferred. You won’t need additional kit like preamps or USB interfaces, and you can also use the Zoom H5’s built-in microphone for additional recording, and plug in up to 2 XLR mics. Sort: Clear All. Shure SM7B is a very old product, it was launched back in 2004. It has a frequency response of 50Hz to 20KHz and a price tag of $399 . The Rode NT1 is cheaper than the Shure SM7B. Close. Exactly the correct answer. The Zoom H6 has its own built-in preamp and is set to a gain of 4 with Cloudlifter attached, and 7.5 without a Cloudlifter. Audio-Technica AT2020 vs Shure SM58! Blue Bluebird - Flat, wide-range frequency response - Improved rejection of electromagnetic hum - Now shipping with the A7WS detachable … However, that assumes you are speaking 3 inches away. The SHURE SM7B dynamic microphone. Technically, yes the Cloudlifter is a mini preamp, although it is generally used with an additional preamp or audio interface. That’s up to 84dB gain in total. There’s also internal “air suspension” shock isolation that virtually eliminates mechanical noise transmission. Which is right for you though? It has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20KHz and a price tag of $99. Condenser Mics . A cardioid microphone, also know as unidirectional, will pick up sound from a single direction. In this corner, the popular Audio-Technica AT2020 medium diaphragm condenser microphone. We’ve linked to plenty of Shure SM7B demos and sound tests throughout this article, but here’s a cheatsheet if you’re just looking to hear the mic in action. I have two AT2035 that I got on sale a while back. Print Email. So let’s do that. The sm7b is a smooth sounding mic, you could get the sm7b mic and a small Fethead booster that will bump the sm7b's gain by 20db, the Fethead runs off your phantom power and sells for $99 shipped at ZenPro audio and then keep your audio interface for now until you have money for a decent preamp Share Quote. Upvote +1 Downvote. But you will find one, if not many, in any given studio. There are 3 frequency settings you can choose from when recording: You switch between frequency response settings by using a pen or something similar to push the switches on the back of the mic. Some more info on the history of the SM7 & SM7B: THE HISTORY AND THE FACTS. Interestingly enough, it makes a lot more sense to compare the SM7B to a condenser mic like AKG C214, than the dynamic SM58. Shure's SM7 was introduced in 1976 and is available today as the SM7B. Just get it done and stop worrying about phantom power and never being able to use a condenser mic. Lots of people seem to recommend using a Shure SM7B alongside a Cloudlifter. It is a medium diaphragm condenser microphone and therefore requires phantom power. Microphone noise can be removed or reduced with post-production, depending on the editing software you use. A mic activator is a term used to describe the Cloudlifter, which adds gain to dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7B. If you need a handheld microphone, a USB connection or cheap mic (sub $100), then you’d be better with a different microphone. You can also listen to music producer, YouTuber and singer Joel Berghult (aka RoomieOfficial) recording vocals on a Shure SM7B. The SM7B is a dynamic mic more suited for in studio as a vocal and broadcasting microphone primarily. For the development of the SM7, Shure engineers were given the SM57 cartridge elements (Unidyne III) and asked, without restrictions on size or cost to essentially make it better. For podcasters, voice-over artists, radio stations and recording studios, the Shure SM7B microphone is definitely worth buying. Currently I just record with the input gain knob most of the way up and then (dare I say) normalize in my DAW after the fact... Is there another setting you've messed with? If you look for a deal on a used Shure SM7B microphone, you could be lucky enough to shave around 20% off the price of a new one. … I've tried some of the preamps on the unit to get some more volume but find they start distorting easily, maybe I'll have to mess with them more though. Condenser Mic vs. SM7 – Introduced in 1973 or 1976 (some discrepancy), with a U.S. retail price of $256.80. There’s not much point to it, since it’s hard to adjust the frequency response switches without a screwdriver or pick anyway. If you’re looking for a condenser microphone alternative to the Shure SM7B, you’ll probably like the Rode NT1, AKG Pro Audio C214 or Audio-Technica AT2035. It’s currently ranked number 4 in Amazon’s Best Selling Vocal Dynamic Microphones. They’ve made it tricky to use the switches so you don’t accidentally knock them during recording. There are instructions in the manual to help you change the setup for a vertical microphone stand. Thread: SM57/58 vs. AT-2035 vs. Shure SM7B vs. ? You’ll also need 2 female to male XLR cables for this setup, and a boom arm or mic stand of your choice. (Image credit: Shure) Shure SM7B The SM7B has found its place both in broadcast speech and studio vocals. And I’m not surprised. You can listen to Twitch streamer and poker player Jaime Staples use a SM7B when interviewing other poker players for his partypoker show Weekly Poker Showdown. However, you may prefer the Shure MV7, which has dual XLR and USB connectivity while providing a similar sound quality to the SM7B. Combining the Shure SM7B with a FetHead and Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB audio interface, gives you USB connectivity, audio monitoring while recording, and up to 59dB gain from the Focusrite, and an additional 29dB gain from the FetHead. For this reason, the SM7b is … A boom arm will clamp onto your desk, and can be positioned according to your setup and preferred recording distance. A dynamic microphone uses electromagnetism to convert sound waves into an electrical signal. Any headphones will work, but if you want to actually hear any noise or recording issues you may run into, it’s worth using high quality professional studio headphones. If you’re using Shure’s SM7B to record vocals or music when you’re away from a desk or standing up, you’re going to want a microphone stand. Firstly, the SM7B has a very wide, and fairly flat, frequency response. Regards, Patrick. That’s up to 88dB gain in total. You’d be better with off with a standard preamp, like the ART Tube MP Studio V3 which provides up to +70dB gain. Cardioid studio microphone delivers warm and smooth audio reproduction in close-proximity studio and vocal applications. In short, the Shure SM7B is perfect for podcasting thanks to its: We’ll go through all these features and more in serious detail below. Definitely worth checking out (read my Shure MV7 review for more info). The Shure SM7B has a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up most sound from the front of the microphone (see diagram below). The Shure SM7B picks up far less background noise than the Rode NT1. Click to check best price . A preamp, short for pre-amplifier, is designed to amplify weak signals and give them gain. So I (foolishly) just got a Cloudlifter, thinking it would solve the issues of the low tracking volume of my AT2020, not realizing it wouldn't work with phantom powered condensers. SM7B is shit. The reason for this is that they are extremely affordable while sounding great. The benefit of the Zoom H5 is that you can use the built-in preamp to add up to 52dB gain, record directly to SD card and monitor recordings via headphones live. Let’s go through the main ones so you can see what’s out there. The mic began life as a broadcast microphone and was essentially a development on the earlier SM5 model. That said, some people prefer having a bit of an extra filter between them and the mic, and since pop filters are the cheapest part of your microphone setup, there’s really no downside to using one like the Dragon studio pop filter. There are only a few marked differences between the Shure SM7 & SM7B. Have a listen to a recording of the SM7B without any post-processing (compression, limiting, EQ) out-of-the box with the flat response setting. The Shure SM7B microphone has an adjustable frequency response, with a range of 50 to 20,000 Hertz. AT2035 vs Shure SM7B. I will also include the SM7A for clarity’s sake. But does it really make a difference? However, the Shure SM7B will require more gain (via preamp) than the Rode NT1 to achieve the same signal levels. View Profile View Forum Posts View Articles New Member Join Date Apr 2016 Posts 1 Thanks 0 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post Rep Power 0. It has a unique sound for voice recordings. Acoustically, both mics perform almost identically. Thread Tools. Clearly, you’ve done the hard yards already, and you’ve arrived at the final showdown: AT2035 vs. SM7B. If you intend to speak further than a few inches from the mic, you can use the audio interface and an additional preamp like the Cloudlifter for maximum gain. Most podcasters and voice over artists typically get much closer than 3 inches, particularly if they are using the close-talk windscreen, so you will do fine with less than 60dB gain. However, you may find vocal recordings to be too quiet and a preamp can help amplify the signal of your recordings. A popular single-channel audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo will provide +56 dB of gain, which should be enough for most. About $75 for a Steinberg UR12. Luckily, there are a fair few good ones about… What makes the SM7B so good? We’ve packed this review with sound clips and technical information so you can see (and hear) exactly what you need to before buying. In this corner is the legendary Audio-Technica AT2020. Typically, dynamic mics like the SM7B are used for recording loud instruments and singing, but Shure’s top-seller has also become popular with podcasters and voice over artists thanks to its unique sound… if you add some gain (keep reading to find out how). While most people use the SM7B as a vocal mic, it’s also great at picking up instruments: watch this odd recording session to hear how it performs on a series of brass and wind instruments. The adjustable frequency response lets you customize your sound. Gain refers to the amplification in voltage of the electrical signals a microphone picks up. AT2035 vs Shure SM7B. The SM7B has become very popular with podcasters, voice-over artists and musicians. You can see the output level on its documentation saying that it only have -59 output level. SM7B + Apogee Duet are all you need. Its first iteration, the SM7, was a beloved radio workhorse that Quincy … My interface is currently my Line 6 HD Pro, which has only 38 dB mic gain. The main function of a USB audio interface is to: Check the amount of gain you’ll be able to get from your preamp or audio interface. Posted by 1 year ago. From YouTubers to Twitch streamers, the Shure SM7B is a popular choice for professional commentators, as it only picks up close speech and leaves out any background or computer noise. Keep the Cloudlifter, and use my ignorance as a convenient excuse to get the SM7B I've been wanting for a long time. The short answer is that the Shure SM7B is a far superior microphone to the Rode NT1. If you to record directly to an audio recorder with XLR input, pair the Shure SM7B with a  Zoom H5. How can I connect the Shure SM7B via usb to my computer? Shure SM7B and Rode Procaster Features The last part we want to mention is the additional features in these Shure SM7B and Rode Procaster but only Shure packs some tweak in the microphone. Yes, that’s right, it offers more gain for less cash. Maaaaan, I … suggested Rode NT1-A Shure SM7B Rode NT1 Shure SM58 HyperX QuadCast Rode NT-USB Shure SM57 Razer Seiren X Samson G-Track Pro Audio-Technica AT2035 Popular comparisons This is considered to be low sensitivity. I believe so, mic plugged in with phantom power on and the input set to the mic input. There are 3 main ways you can connect a Shure SM7B to make recordings: If you need a very minimalist microphone setup, you’ll be better off with a USB microphone, like the Rode NT-USB, Audio-Technica AT2020USB, or Blue Yeti. In … Podcaster and comedian Bert Kreischer uses a couple of Rode PSA1 swivel mounts to keep his Shure SM7B mics suspended while recording episodes of his celebrity interview podcast, Bertcast. Shure’s SM7B is a passive microphone with low sensitivity, which means the signal it picks up can be weak unless gain is added. However, it can be time-consuming, and may not be possible if you’re live-streaming audio. The SM7B comes with a boom mount attachment and is shipped in this configuration. If you’re looking for a large diaphragm dynamic vocal mic, the SM7b will deliver smooth warmth in spades. Q: I think the Shure SM7B is a great dynamic microphone for vocals and instruments, but I always wondered, what is the difference between the original and the current model? The SM7B sure sounds great but it … Suggestions very much welcome. A: The Shure SM7 dynamic mic was introduced in 1973; according to Shure, seven years of field research went into designing what was intended to be the finest unidirectional dynamic microphone ever. For many podcasters, Shure's SM7B just may be the holy grail of microphones. This is great if you’re using the mic near your computer or other electronic devices. The body of the Shure SM7B microphone is shielded against broadband interference from computer monitors and other electrical devices, providing excellent rejection of electromagnetic hum. This mic weighs 2.03 pounds and has a product dimension of 7.47 x 3.78 x 5.81 inches. Cookies help us deliver our Services. Or, more importantly, what should you be looking for in a suitable alternative? There's no way you could get 60db of gain without Cloudlifter unless you buy Apogee Duet (which I have) or expensive preamp (which is more expensive than Apogee Duet). The two 2035 pick up everything and create a echo that is hard to get a noise gate to filter. If you don't have the budget ($500+) to buy good audio interface and Cloudlifter CL-1 combined to give 60db gain to SM7B, don't do that. Both are dynamic microphones. The most popular type of floor microphone stand is a boom stand, or tripod stand, like the Samson MK-10 floor boom stand, which allows you to position the mic overhanging the base. Yes, the Shure SM7B is designed for vocal recording, both spoken word and singing. If you’re going to use a USB audio interface, like the single-channel Focusrite Scarlett Solo or Rode AI-1, to connect the Shure SM7B XLR microphone to your computer, don’t forget that these devices usually also have a gain feature that you can use, and this may be effective enough without an additional Cloudlifter. Technically, no, you can use the SM7B without a preamp. You’ll need a female to male XLR cable: the female end is connected to the microphone, and the male end will attach to your preamp, audio interface, digital recorder or USB adapter. The Rode NT1 requires less gain than the Shure SM7B and costs less too. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast, More posts from the WeAreTheMusicMakers community, Continue browsing in r/WeAreTheMusicMakers, Press J to jump to the feed. You can check the latest SM7B price on Amazon here. You can see the setup in action in his videos, for example his popular singing impression video One Guy 14 Voices. The Heil PR40 is very similar to the SM7B, but the Heil requires less gain but doesn’t have frequency response options – listen to a detailed comparison of both mics here. Jeez just get an audio interface with phantom power. The Shure SM7B has 3 built-in frequency response settings that allow you to customize how it sounds. You can bang the desk and move the mic around and you won’t pickup any unwanted sounds. Both the Sure SM58 and the Audio-Technica At2020 are some of the most famous microphones out there. There are two types of dynamic microphone: moving coil and ribbon. A Shure SM7B mic was even used by UK radio station Virgin Radio to create an impromptu radio station on a boat during the Coronavirus outbreak. You might notice that a lot of podcasters in the screenshots above are wearing Sony MDR 7506 headphones – you can read more about them in our guide to the best podcast headphones. Shure’s SM7B is not a handheld microphone, so you’re going to need to mount it to something before you start recording. If it’s good enough for them…, Seriously, Shure SM7B microphones are really cheap compared to other professional, broadcast-quality microphones. The Foo Fighters use Shure SM7B microphones in their Los Angeles studio (you can listen to a performance of Best of You with vocals recorded on the Shure SM7B here). Low impedance is less than 600 Ω (ohms); medium impedance is 600 Ω to 10,000 Ω; high impedance is greater than 10,000 Ω. Shure’s SM7B output impedance is 150 ohms. Frequency response measures (in hertz) the range of frequencies, from low to high, that a microphone can pick up. AT2020 vs. SM7B. The Shure SM7B is a dynamic cardioid XLR microphone. In other words, you don’t need to buy a shock mount for the SM7B as it’s pretty immune to physical vibrations as it is. Try his video called One Guy, 7 Cover Songs for a range of singing styles. Many users opt for a boom arm, also known as a swivel mount. MemeBoy123. The SM7B is a cardioid dynamic microphone, which means it picks up sound only from the front and is durable and easy to use but requires a lot of gain. podcasts and voice-overs), because the signals you’ll record will need amplifying. Rode NT1A - Large 1 inch capsule with gold plated diaphragm - Cardioid polar pattern - Self Noise of only 5 dB (A) - Ultra low noise, transformerless surface mount circuitry - Wide dynamic range. If you're a podcaster, SM7B will give you a podcast sound you need. Sign in to disable this ad I think this video really adds to the debate. I have both of them, the AT2020 and SM7B. The Shure SM7B has become one of the most popular popdcast microphones out there. The AT2020 is a great entry level mic. With the AKG we have a slightly wider spectrum, going from 20 Hz up to 20 kHz. 164. It’s also a cardioid mic, but it has a -20 dB pad and a bass cut-off filter below 160 Hz. Rode NT1A Vs Shure SM7B . Both microphones are XLR mics and have a cardioid pickup pattern, which means they only record sound from the front of the mic. The Shure SM7B is a pretty unique microphone – nothing else out there is going to give you the same sound, but a few come close. The SM7B is for sure a pro-level mic, but the problem is, it ain’t cheap. Most people choose to use them, but musician Ben Howard can be seen recording vocals on Shure SM7B mics with the built-in pop shield exposed. Gain can be added through use of a preamp. Our favorite places to look are eBay auctions, and Amazon warehouse deals. Archived. You don’t really need an additional pop filter with the Shure SM7B, as it has a built-in mesh filter and additional sponges (including close-talk sponge) that come as standard. From my experience, unless you're a podcaster, forget the shit. Here are all the differences you need to know about. So I (foolishly) just got a Cloudlifter, thinking it would solve the issues of the low tracking volume of my AT2020, not realizing it wouldn't work with phantom powered condensers. Joel Berghult (aka RoomieOfficial) uses a Rode PSA1 swivel mount boom arm to hold his Shure SM7B when talking and singing. From Joe Rogan to Dave Grohl, Shure SM7B is the microphone of choice for so many famous names that we’d be here all day if we tried to list them (keep reading the article for a few more names if you’re curious). From podcasters to radio stations, musicians to voice over artists, Shure’s SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone is one popular performer. Shure SM7B is sold at $399.00 on Amazon. You don’t need an additional shock mount for the Shure SM7B as it already has one buit right in. I consider both of these microphones, the Heil PR40 and the Shure SM7B, to be one of the best dynamic microphones available today. The SM7B may not be the most affordable dynamic mic available. Its first iteration, the SM7, was a beloved radio workhorse that Quincy Jones used to record Michael Jackson's Thriller. The AT2020 has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20Khz and has a price tag of $99. The Shure SM7B is a microphone with a reputation for a warm and intimate sound that podcasters and vocalists love even though it has a few peculiarities. I make gaming videos. There are two reasons why the Shure SM7B needs additional hardware to function: There are a variety of setups you can choose, but here’s a couple of popular setups that work out-of-the-box: By combining the Shure SM7B with a Cloudlifter and Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB audio interface, you can plug your setup straight into your computer, monitor audio while recording, and benefit from up to 59dB gain from the Focusrite, and an additional 25dB gain from the Cloudlifter. What compatible accessories can I use with the Shure SM7B? The Audio-Technica AT2020 condenser vs. the Shure SM7B dynamic microphone. If you must use SM7B, buy Apogee Duet and it will work without Cloudlifter. No items to compare. Mid is in the middle. Choose from 3 pickup patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional and figure 8) to record in different scenarios. Last Updated on February 27, 2020 by Facundo. Boom arms, microphone stands and desk mounts. As we discussed in the earlier section on hum and noise, you need to select a preamp to pair with the Shure SM7B that does not introduce noise to your recordings. You can also use the Shure SM7B mounted on a desk stand, like the popular On Stage desktop mic stand. That works for us! Read More » Back to Product List. The AT2020 and Podcaster are both USB microphones, so I was just curious to as which one would be better. The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone, whereas the Rode NT1 is a condenser microphone. If you need an omnidirectional microphone alternative to the Shure SM7B, you’ll probably like the Blue Yeti USB microphone as it has multiple pickup patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo), or a dedicated omnidirectional microphone like the RODE Reporter. Output will be much higher if you’re shouting, singing or micing drums or amplified instruments. Shure recommends +60 dB for the SM7B to get optimum audio quality on speech recordings. My interface is currently my Line 6 HD Pro, which has only 38 dB mic gain. Ideal if you’re on the move or want to keep your setup minimal. As it has been mentioned above, this model has a profile or more of a tweak located at the bottom of the unit which requires a small and thin object to flick as it is not protruding. Marc Maron uses a boom arm like this Samson mounting arm to mount his Shure SM7B mics. The Shure SM7B can be used without additional shock mounts or pop filters, whereas the Rode NT1 requires a separate shock mount and pop filter to improve sound quality. It holds a rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 487 customer reviews. You’ll also need 1 female to male XLR cable for this setup. So what would y'all do in my situation? But if you’re curious now, here are just a handful of top podcasters that record their shows on the SM7B: Try and have a listen to some podcast episodes recorded on the Shure SM7B. jaybird x2 vs x3 canon eos rebel t6 vs nikon d340 canon t7i vs nikon d5600 logitech z623 vs z625 pg278qr vs pg279q nikon d3200 vs d3300 razer deathadder vs razer mamba d5500 vs d7200 g603 vs g703 g533 vs … This means that, as a dynamic mic, the Shure SM7B is more durable and can handle high sound levels … Joined Jan 24, 2013 Messages 15,788 Reaction … They work great both for recording podcasts and also music. Joel Berghult (RoomieOfficial) – One Guy, 7 Cover Songs, The White Stripes – Slowly Turning Into You, SM7B recording brass and wind instruments, Gamer Chance Morris (sodapoppin) on Twitch, Sony MDR7506 professional large diaphragm headphones, beyerdynamic DT770 PRO 80 Ohm studio headphones, Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB Audio Interface, really good sound comparison between the Shure SM7B and Rode NT1 here, listen to a detailed comparison of both mics here, cardioid pickup pattern that only records sound from the front, built-in pop filter and 2 windscreen options, variable frequency response settings to get a unique “DJ voice” sound, Industry standard as far as versatile mics go, XLR, Anyone that needs omnidirectional sound pickup, Anyone looking for an LDC (large diaphagm condenser) microphone, You can plug the XLR mic cable directly into a, 50 to 20,000 Hz frequency response (with 3 settings), very durable, can be knocked around without damage, able to handle high sound levels without distortion, ideal for stage and studio as background sounds are minimized, great for recording vocals and close-up sounds, suited to loud instruments like drums and guitar amps, lower background noise than omnidirectional mics, won’t pick up multiple instruments at once compared to omnidirectional mics, can’t record vocals or speech from more than one person at a time, Provide a headphone output channel (so you can monitor recordings as you make them), 1 x Shure SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone, 1 x close-talk A7WS detachable windscreen, To add gain to speech recordings to improve strength of recordings and overall quality, ✅ Ideal for vocal recording (podcasting, voice-overs, musician), ❌ Cannot be used as a handheld microphone, ❌ Requires additional preamp/USB adapter for computer use. Launched in late 2020, the Shure MV7 is not too far off the sound quality of an SM7B, but with a lower MSRP of $249 and the benefits of USB and XLR connectivity. Listen to a really good sound comparison between the Shure SM7B and Rode NT1 here. The AUDIO-TECHNICA AT2020 condenser microphone vs. You’ll also need 1 female to male XLR cable for this setup, and a boom arm or mic stand of your choice. And in this corner, the legendary Shure SM7B dynamic microphone. I’m SHURE (haha) you’re here because you’re considering buying a Shure SM7B microphone. Low frequency is usually referred to as bass, and high frequency as treble. By pairing the Shure SM7B with just the Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB audio interface, you’ll get up to 59dB gain, USB connectivity and headphone output. However, if you use the Cloudlifter with a USB audio interface which also has a preamp, you can crank up the gain even further. It’s the Swiss army knife of USB microphones, and a lot more affordable than the Shure SM7B. However, it will not do as good a job at keeping background noise away or giving your voice that unique SM7B tone. Joe Rogan uses Shure SM7B microphones to record his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. The SM7B is an XLR microphone with no USB connection. Compare Shure SM7B vs Rode NT1-A vs Rode NT1 vs Audio-Technica AT2050. Audio-Technica AT2020 vs Shure SM58! According to Shure, the SM7B is best-suited for: That’s a pretty large collection of use cases. Here’s Shure’s advice on when to use each windscreen: Use the standard windscreen for general voice and instrumental applications. For speech recording, you’re best off pairing the Shure SM7B with a preamp (see the section on gain and preamps below). Shure’s SM7B hum pickup is only 11 dB thanks to its internal hum bucking coil that reduces hum. 7. suggested Rode NT1-A Shure SM7B Rode NT1 HyperX QuadCast Rode NT-USB Shure SM57 Razer Seiren X Samson G-Track Pro Audio-Technica AT2035 Blue Microphones Yeti. The short answer is that the Shure SM7B is a far superior microphone to the Rode NT1. However, it's fairly safe to say that Shure MV5 is a more popular microphone, based on its 100+ reviews. November 17th, 2015 MariusID. Let’s see what that means for your recordings. My AT2020 gets used mainly for vocals, anywhere from softer acoustic to (predominantly) metal, as well as the occasional acoustic guitar and drum micing. For typical speech applications, three inches from the grille, the SM7B requires at least +60 dB of gain at the microphone preamp. Before you spend more cash on an XLR cable, check that you don’t get one bundled with your preamp or other accessories. 570. Suddenly, Shure’s SM7B is starting to look like a real bargain…. Hum is the word used to describe the annoying 60 Hz magnetic and electrostatic tone that’s picked up by recording equipment. Focusrite Scarlett Solo USB audio interface manual, Quick Answer: 3 Reasons to Buy a Shure SM7B Microphone, Connecting a Shure SM7B to a computer or digital recorder, Shure SM7B specifications (and what they actually mean), Shure SM7B hum pickup and noise reduction features. The Shure SM7B will output 1.12 millivolts (mV) when detecting acoustic air pressure of 1 Pascal. The mic’s moving-coil cartridge is similar to the Unidyne III design found in the SM57/SM58. Do you need a Cloudlifter for Shure SM7B? Desk stands are generally cheaper than boom arms and floor stands and work well if you’ve got desk space in front of you when recording. Shure SM7B. This is a low … Streaming platform Twitch also recommends the SM7B for streamers on their guide to getting started: High End Cardioid: Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone ~ $399USD. EDIT 2: I've considered the Shure SM7B + ProFire 610 combo, but given that the SM7B is about 4 times the price of these low end mics and that I have zero prior mixing knowledge, I figured it'd be a good start to get a cheaper mic with a decent audio interface. You’ll probably want to monitor sound levels by wearing headphones when recording on a Shure SM7B. The Cloudlifter CL-1 mic activator is an in-line preamp that will give the SM7B +25dB gain. Lives for gear . We recommend the FetHead in-line preamp from Triton Audio. Cut my losses, return the Cloudlifter, and record myself crying tears of disappointment through my current setup (still at too low a volume, but maybe I can work with it and make a remix of my suffering, maybe it'll even go viral). On its own, the Cloudlifter only provides up to 25 dB gain. Add at least two items to compare. Shure’s SM7B is a moving coil dynamic microphone, which means it is more durable and easier to use than a ribbon dynamic mic. You can read more about the famous podcasters who use SM7Bs in this section of my review of the best podcast microphones. I have both an at2020 and a line 6 hd500x and every time I’ve ran a mic through the line 6 I’ve never had problems with gain. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. What’s the difference between the Shure SM7B vs Rode NT1? Low impedance allows for very long cable runs without sound degradation. Note: you can buy dedicated preamps, like the ART Tube MP Studio V3, but most USB audio interfaces, like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, have built-in preamp features. It has been designed to capture voice – especially spoken word. Both go for about the same price, with the Shure SM7B being about $50 dollars … Heil PR40 vs. Shure SM7B Comparison! Shure retails its SM7B microphone directly for $399, which includes free 1-day shipping. Studio setups and post-production will vary, but, as you will hear, the audio quality is superb in all cases. The SM7B was introduced in 2001, and features a larger windscreen than the SM7. Shure SM7 vs. SM7B. An audio interface also has additional features, namely the option to add gain to recordings. Show Printable Version; Email this Page… 04-05-2016 #11. cancerstik. 1. As we discussed in the above section, you’ll need something to attach your Shure SM7B to a computer in order to make recordings. At the same time, many have found it to be a great vocal mic and use it that way (I think it works great as a vocal mic). The Shure SM7B is an XLR microphone (no USB connection), and it doesn’t ship with an XLR cable. Posted by 3 years ago. As always, the answer to this question is “it depends”. The SM7B is a mic that's used a lot in the genres I like and it would be a nice professional piece of gear to have, I'm just debating its necessity to me I suppose. Archived.