Shure
SM7B Vocal Microphone
Best dynamic microphone for professional podcasters and broadcast vocalists.
The Shure SM7B is a legendary dynamic microphone, celebrated for its smooth, warm vocal reproduction ideal for broadcasting, professional podcasts, and critical studio recordings. It captures voice details with a flat, wide-range frequency response while effectively minimizing unwanted noise. Key design elements include superior electromagnetic hum shielding, internal shock isolation to reduce mechanical noise, and an integrated pop filter. It comes with an A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications, ensuring professional sound quality in any demanding audio environment.
$395.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
55
/ 1735
#55 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-22%
Below average
Microphone Type
Dynamic
/ Dynamic
Who it's for
- Podcasters and vocalists seeking a polished, professional studio sound
- Creators recording in noisy or untreated home environments
- Engineers needing durable gear with built-in sound shaping tools
Who should skip it
- Users without a high-quality preamp or external signal booster
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an all-in-one affordable solution
- Desktop users lacking a sturdy, heavy-duty boom arm
Performance breakdown
Vocal Warmth
Delivers a rich, broadcast-ready tone that flatters almost any voice type.
Noise Rejection
Advanced shielding effectively eliminates electromagnetic hum and unwanted background mechanical noise.
Build Durability
Rugged construction ensures this mic survives years of heavy studio use.
Plosive Control
Integrated pop filtering handles aggressive consonants with impressive, natural-sounding ease.
Frequency Versatility
Onboard presence boost and bass rolloff switches offer essential tonal shaping.
Setup Complexity
Requires a high-gain preamp to reach its full, quiet potential.
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Dynamic
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
Flat, wide-range
Intended Use
Broadcasting, podcasting, studio recording
Build Material
Rugged construction
Included Accessory
A7WS detachable windscreen
Replacement Cartridge
RPM106
Noise Reduction System
None
Features
- Smooth, warm vocal reproduction
- Excellent hum shielding
- Internal shock isolation
- Integrated pop filter
- Bass rolloff and presence boost controls
- Classic cardioid polar pattern
- Rugged construction for reliability
- Includes A7WS windscreen
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the Shure SM7B for its exceptional sound quality, describing recordings as warm, smooth, and natural, ideal for broadcast and podcasting. A key benefit is its excellent rejection of ambient room noise, enabling professional results even in imperfect acoustic spaces. Reviewers also value the microphone's robust, durable construction, viewing it as a reliable long-term investment. The primary consideration noted is the microphone's low output, which requires a high gain preamplifier or an inline booster for optimal performance. Despite this necessary setup consideration, the consensus is that the superior audio fidelity and reliability make the SM7B an industry standard well worth the effort.
Know before you buy
Yes, the SM7B is a dynamic microphone that requires an XLR connection to an audio interface or a dedicated preamp. Because it has a relatively low output level, you may also need a cloudlifter or a high-gain preamp to achieve a clean signal without excessive background noise.
Yes, its cardioid polar pattern is excellent at rejecting sound from the sides and rear, making it a popular choice for home studios. While it won't eliminate all room echo, it is much more forgiving than sensitive condenser microphones in less-than-ideal acoustic environments.
The two switches allow you to customize the frequency response: one provides a bass rolloff to reduce low-end rumble, and the other offers a presence boost to add clarity to the high-mid frequencies. These adjustments help you tailor the sound to your specific voice or recording application.
No, the SM7B is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate. However, if you are using an inline preamp or signal booster to increase the gain, those specific devices will require phantom power from your interface.
The A7WS is designed for close-talk applications and helps significantly reduce plosives and breath noise. It provides a warmer, more intimate sound profile, which is ideal for professional broadcasting and podcasting.
Yes, the SM7B is built with a rugged, professional-grade construction designed to withstand the rigors of daily studio use and transport. It is widely considered one of the most reliable workhorse microphones in the industry.
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