Shure SM7B Microphone Review

Shure has been in the microphone game a long time— since 1932, in fact. Over the years, they’ve built a reputation as one of the best microphone manufacturers on the market, with stalwarts like the Shure SM56 and Shure SM58 cementing their spots performance history.

With a product line up that’s known to be the best among the best, you can expect that expectations for the Shure SM7 are high, and this mic meets every last one of them. The SM7B mic is famous for being the mic Michael Jackson used when he recorded his hit “Thriller”. With the SM7 mic’s dynamic range and natural sound it’s no surprise that this ranks among the best dynamic vocal microphones in the world. Read on to find out why.

About the SM7B Microphone

The Shure SM7B microphone is one of the top vocal microphones in the world, and has been used in radio stations, in studios for voiceover and vocal recording, and in home gaming set ups as well. While many might labor under the idea that the best sound comes from the most expensive microphones, the SM7B microphone proves that wrong. It’s comparable with even the best condensers from the famously high-end brand Neumann, while being three times cheaper than the TLM 103 and eight times cheaper than the U37!

The Shure SM7B vocal dynamic microphone is well-known for its rich yet neutral low-end, which has a completely natural sound that makes every recording sound true-to-life— sometimes even better. Unlike typical consumer grade mics, the SM7B has no distortion, just a clean, balanced bass. These, and the lack of boominess, make it a favorite for users with deep voices. Even those without will enjoy the smooth and transparent high ranges, and unlike other expensive condensers the SM7B has a sound that’s completely smooth.

This microphone is perfect for bringing out the best in a deep baritone, taming and smoothing out a high soprano, and can record something as soft as a whisper or as loud as a gunshot perfectly. With its 180dB SPL, it’s also a top choice for bass drums and full-tilt guitar solos, making it one of the best all-around mics on the market today.

Shure SM7B Microphone Pros

The Shure SM7B is one of the most dynamic dynamic vocal microphones out there. Unlike other condensers, the SM7B is able to filter out non-essential sounds, which makes it especially ideal for applications beyond simply studio recording, and is exactly why it’s a favorite for radiostations.

It’s also far easier to use, which means you’ll have more consistent sound production and you and your guests don’t have to worry too much about messing up. With a frequency response that goes up to 20kHz, much bigger than other microphones at comparable prices, you can be sure that the SM7B is going to capture your voice to the most flattering degree.

No ‘Bad’ Air

While microphone sensitivity is important in order to capture all the nuances of a human voice, it can also have its downsides. Many a sound engineer has despaired over having to edit out breathiness or unnecessary mechanical noise. Luckily, the Shure SM7B is designed to deal with that. Thanks to its air suspension shock isolation and pop filter, the SM7B is able to eliminate ‘unwanted’ noise, allowing for words to get through cleanly without interference.

Clean Capture

Thanks to its classic cardioid pattern, the SM7B is able to reject off-axis audio while focusing recordings in one area. You can speak, sing, or play music at a comfortable angle and be confident that the microphone can capture your sound perfectly, with little to no outside noise.

How to Connect Shure SM7B to Computer?

If this is your first time dealing with the Shure SM7B microphone, you might be wondering how to connect it to your computer. The first thing you’ll need is a mic preamp that can amplify your low-output dynamic mic, as well as an audio interface and at least two XLR cables. You will then plug your audio interface into the wall and into your computer via USB. Run one XLR cable from your interface to your preamp, and another XLR cable from your preamp to your microphone. Once it’s all set up, you’re ready to record!

What Mic Boom do I Use with the Shure SM7B?

Your Shure SM7B will need a sturdy, stable mic boom in order to be used comfortably. You can use most boom arms as long as they’re listed to hold the weight of the SM7B (around 765.4 g or 1 lb, 11 oz.). Luckily, the item is already shipped in a boom-mounting configuration, making set up easier than ever. The Shure SM7B also has an internal shock mount with more than enough absorption, which is integrated into the design for a smooth, portable look.

Shure SM7B Static When Recording?

The SM7B is designed with advanced electromagnetic shielding to avoid capturing hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment. If you find that your recordings are still registering static hum, make sure to check your connections to your preamp and computer, as well as avoid using cell phones too close to your set up.

How to Increase Sensitivity of Shure SM7B?

Like many dynamic microphones, the Shure SM7B needs a little boost to reach its full potential. All you’ll need to do is purchase a good preamp like the Cloudlifter and you’ll be good to go. If you’re working from a computer set up, you’re probably already thinking of getting one, so it’s a little like hitting two birds with one stone.

How to Tell is Shure SM7B Damaged?

The SM7B mic comes with a detachable windscreen and switch cover plate, which, when attached, reduces damage to the microphone in case of accident. If your unit is purchased from Shure or a Shure-authorized reseller, it comes with a two-year limited warranty from the date of purchase on the purchase receipt.

A Sure Buy for Online Streaming

Picking the right mic for Youtube or online streaming can pose a bit of a difficulty. Cheaper mics might not capture your voice the way you want them to, while more expensive mics might be too out of budget. The Shure SM7B fits comfortably in the middle, while promising incredible quality that’s sure to up the standards of your content.

Thanks to a clean and balanced low-end sound, a fantastic mid-range, and an incredible tenor, anyone can sound great on it. With the right pre-amp, you can start producing recordings that are incredible and dynamic. For Youtubers and streamers who are looking for the right mid-range mic, there’s absolutely nothing better.

What People Are Saying

The Shure SM7B vocal dynamic microphone is perfect for both home and studio environments, and can be used for a variety of activities. Thanks to its cardioid pattern pick up, it can easily reject unwanted sounds. Its dynamic frequency range and response also allows for a natural sound, making the mixing process easier than ever. 

Where to Buy the Shure SM7B Microphone

Whether you’re a podcaster, vocalist, or radio announcer, the Shure SM7B is one of the best tools on the market for amplifying and capturing your voice. Cheaper than condenser mics but offering the same, and sometimes better, caliber of sound, this is a must-have for any studio set up. Find the best deals for the Shure SM7B Microphone here.