Last updated: September 21, 2024In this thorough and exhaustive Shure SM7B review, we take an in-depth look at the legendary dynamic microphone that has captivated professionals in broadcasting, podcasting, and music recording for decades. We’ve tested the microphone extensively, delving into its features, capabilities, and performance across various applications. By examining the SM7B’s specifications, build quality, and real-world results, we’ll provide you with a complete understanding of this renowned microphone, helping you decide whether it’s the right choice for your needs.
The Shure SM7B’s reputation is built on a storied history that dates back to 1973 when it was first introduced as the SM7. Over the years, the microphone has undergone multiple revisions, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and design elements to refine and enhance its performance. From iconic recordings like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to countless podcasts and broadcasts, the SM7B has become synonymous with outstanding audio quality.
Through extensive hands-on testing, we’ve thoroughly explored the Shure SM7B’s key features and specifications. We’ll share our insights and observations to give you an in-depth understanding of what sets this microphone apart from its competitors.
The SM7B’s wide frequency response, ranging from 50 Hz to 20 kHz, is immediately apparent when testing it across various sound sources. From capturing crystal-clear vocals to picking up the nuances of different instruments, the microphone’s flat frequency response ensures minimal coloration, delivering an authentic representation of the original sound. This characteristic makes the SM7B a highly versatile microphone suitable for diverse recording applications.
During our testing, the SM7B’s built-in pop filter effectively eliminated plosive sounds, ensuring clean and artifact-free recordings. This integrated solution simplifies the recording process by eliminating the need for additional pop filters.
Additionally, the microphone’s internal shock mount significantly minimized handling noise and vibrations, resulting in consistently clean audio. This advanced design reduces the need for external shock mounts and further streamlines the setup.
While testing the SM7B in various environments, we found its cardioid polar pattern to be highly effective at isolating the sound source from background noise. This directional characteristic is ideal for capturing clean audio in noisy settings, making it a popular choice among podcasters and broadcasters who require reliable noise isolation.
The Shure SM7B’s robust, all-metal construction instills confidence in its durability and longevity. During our testing, the microphone proved to be reliable, even under rigorous usage. Its ability to withstand the rigors of daily use makes it a trusted tool in professional settings where equipment failure is not an option.
In our hands-on testing, we found the SM7B’s switchable presence boost to be highly useful for enhancing the microphone’s response in the upper midrange. This feature adds clarity and presence to vocals, ensuring they stand out in a mix.
Furthermore, when activated, the high-pass filter effectively removed low-frequency rumble and noise. This feature is especially beneficial for podcasting and broadcasting applications, where maintaining clean audio is crucial.
Through extensive hands-on testing, we’ve observed several areas where the Shure SM7B truly excels. These strengths contribute to its enduring popularity and widespread adoption among audio professionals. Let’s explore these areas in detail.
The Shure SM7B is renowned for its ability to capture vocals with exceptional clarity and depth. Its flat frequency response, presence boost, and effective noise isolation make it a top choice for recording vocalists across various genres. The microphone’s performance in capturing the nuances of the human voice, from subtle inflections to powerful dynamics, is unmatched by many competing models.
During our testing, we found that the SM7B delivered outstanding results when recording spoken word, making it an ideal option for podcasting and voice-over work. Its ability to reduce plosives and sibilance, coupled with its directional polar pattern, results in clean, professional-quality audio that requires minimal post-processing.
The SM7B’s remarkable noise isolation properties make it a preferred choice among broadcasters and podcasters. Its cardioid polar pattern and advanced shielding against electromagnetic interference ensure that audio remains clear and consistent, even in environments with significant background noise.
Our hands-on testing found that the SM7B consistently delivered broadcast-quality audio across various settings, further solidifying its reputation as a go-to choice for radio stations, streaming setups, and podcast studios.
While the SM7B is widely recognized for its vocal recording prowess, it also excels at capturing the intricacies of different instruments. From acoustic guitars’ warmth and depth to drum kits’ punch and attack, the SM7B’s wide frequency response and dynamic range allow it to handle diverse musical applications.
Our testing revealed that the SM7B is particularly adept at capturing the nuances of electric guitar amplifiers and brass instruments. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels and deliver a balanced frequency response is invaluable.
The Shure SM7B’s outstanding performance across a variety of recording scenarios underlines its versatility and dependability as a go-to choice for audio professionals. Key applications of the SM7B include:
By considering the SM7B’s real-world performance and best applications, it becomes clear why this iconic microphone remains a popular choice among professionals in various audio fields.
To provide an even more comprehensive perspective on the SM7B’s capabilities, we’ll expand on our previous comparisons and add additional popular microphones to the mix. By analyzing their features and performance, you’ll better understand what makes the SM7B stand out.
The Sennheiser MD 421 II is a highly-regarded dynamic microphone that is often compared to the Shure SM7B. While both microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern and excel in capturing vocals and instruments, the two have some key differences.
The SM7B’s flat frequency response and presence boost make it particularly well-suited for capturing vocals with clarity and depth. In contrast, the MD 421 II has a more pronounced midrange, which can lead to a more colored sound in specific applications. However, the MD 421 II is known for its excellent performance when recording drums, particularly the toms, and snare.
The SM7B has a slight edge regarding noise isolation due to its advanced shielding against electromagnetic interference. This feature makes it ideal for podcasting and broadcasting in noisy environments.
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a popular condenser microphone that is often pitted against the Shure SM7B. While both microphones deliver excellent sound quality, their different designs result in distinct strengths and weaknesses.
As a dynamic microphone, the SM7B is better suited for handling high sound pressure levels. It is a more versatile option for recording loud instruments such as drums or guitar amplifiers. In contrast, the AT2020’s condenser design makes it more sensitive to transient details, which can be advantageous for recording delicate acoustic instruments or vocals with a lot of high-frequency content.
However, the AT2020’s sensitivity also makes it more susceptible to picking up background noise. The SM7B’s cardioid polar pattern and noise isolation capabilities give it the upper hand in situations where noise isolation is crucial, such as podcasting and broadcasting.
The Rode NT1-A is another condenser microphone often compared to the Shure SM7B. While both microphones are praised for their vocal recording capabilities, their differing designs cater to specific recording situations.
The Rode NT1-A boasts a low self-noise and a wide frequency response, which can deliver a more detailed and open sound when recording vocals or acoustic instruments. However, its condenser design makes it less suitable for capturing loud sources, whereas the dynamic SM7B would be better suited.
Furthermore, the SM7B’s superior noise isolation and robust construction make it a more reliable choice for podcasting, broadcasting, and live applications. In comparison, the Rode NT1-A’s condenser design and greater sensitivity to background noise may be less ideal for these situations.
To round out our exhaustive Shure SM7B review, we’ll address users’ common questions about this iconic dynamic microphone.
The ideal distance and angle for positioning the SM7B will vary depending on the sound source and the desired tonal characteristics. A distance of 2 to 6 inches is generally recommended for vocal recordings, as it allows the microphone to capture the full range of frequencies while maintaining a good proximity effect. For instruments, the distance may vary depending on the desired sound. As for the angle, positioning the microphone slightly off-axis (15-45 degrees) can help minimize plosives and sibilance while still capturing a balanced frequency response.
Although the Shure SM7B is primarily designed for studio recording, its rugged construction, noise isolation capabilities, and ability to handle high sound pressure levels make it suitable for live performance applications as well. The SM7B can be used for live vocals or as an instrument microphone, depending on the specific performance requirements.
The Shure SM7B has a relatively low output level, requiring a preamp with sufficient gain to deliver an optimal signal-to-noise ratio. While most audio interfaces and mixers have built-in preamps, you may need an external preamp or a device like the Cloudlifter CL-1 to provide the necessary gain for the SM7B, especially if you’re working with quiet sound sources or require a cleaner signal.
The Shure SM7B features a built-in pop filter designed to effectively minimize plosive sounds and reduce the need for an external pop filter. However, if you find that you require additional plosive protection, you can use a standard mesh or foam pop filter that fits over the microphone’s grille.
A: To maintain the performance and longevity of your Shure SM7B, it is vital to handle it with care and store it in a protective case when not in use. To clean the microphone, gently wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. If the foam windscreen becomes dirty or damaged, it can be removed and replaced with a new one.
To optimize the performance of your Shure SM7B and enhance your recording experience, there are several accessories and add-ons that you might consider investing in. These additional tools can help you achieve higher audio quality and make your recording sessions more efficient and enjoyable.
While the SM7B includes an integrated shock mount, some users may prefer to upgrade to an external shock mount or isolation system for even more excellent protection against handling noise and vibrations. Several options are available, such as the Rycote InVision Universal Shock Mount or the IsoAcoustics ISO-PUCK isolation feet, which can help minimize unwanted noise and improve the overall clarity of your recordings.
As mentioned earlier, the Shure SM7B has a relatively low output level, necessitating a preamp with sufficient gain. Investing in a high-quality preamp, such as the Grace Design m101 or the Universal Audio LA-610 MkII, can provide a cleaner and more transparent signal, ultimately resulting in superior audio quality.
One of the keys to achieving professional-quality recordings with the Shure SM7B is to control the acoustics of your recording environment. Investing in a portable vocal booth or acoustic treatment panels can help minimize room reflections, reduce standing waves, and create a more controlled and accurate soundstage.
Your microphone is only as good as the signal chain it’s connected to. To ensure the best possible audio quality, investing in high-quality cables is essential. Using premium cables like those from Mogami or Canare can reduce noise, minimize signal degradation, and help you maintain a clean, professional sound.
In this comprehensive review, we have explored the Shure SM7B’s exceptional performance across various applications, its strengths in capturing vocals and instruments, and its suitability for podcasting and broadcasting. We have also compared the SM7B to other popular microphones in the market and addressed frequently asked questions to provide a complete understanding of this iconic microphone.
The Shure SM7B’s enduring appeal and continued popularity among audio professionals can be attributed to its versatile performance, robust construction, and reliable noise isolation capabilities. With the right accessories and proper care, the SM7B can be invaluable for podcasters, broadcasters, musicians, and recording engineers.
By understanding the nuances of the SM7B and incorporating it into your audio setup, you can elevate the quality of your recordings and achieve professional results that stand out in today’s competitive audio landscape.
