When it comes to high quality audio recording, one microphone has stood the test of time across multiple creative industries: the Shure SM7B. Known for its rich, warm sound and exceptional versatility, this dynamic microphone is a favourite among voice over artists, musicians, podcasters, and broadcasters alike.
What Makes the Shure SM7B Stand Out?
- Broadcast-Quality Sound – The SM7B delivers a smooth, natural sound with excellent clarity. Its wide frequency response (50 Hz to 20 kHz) captures deep lows and crisp highs, making it perfect for both spoken word and singing. Unlike some condenser microphones that can introduce unwanted harshness, the SM7B offers a balanced tone with minimal sibilance.
- Superior Noise Rejection – Thanks to its cardioid polar pattern, this mic isolates the voice while rejecting background noise. This makes it an excellent choice for untreated spaces, home studios, or even noisy environments. Whether you’re recording a voice over, podcast, or vocals, you can expect clean audio with minimal interference.
- Built-in Air Suspension Shock Isolation – Handling noise and vibrations are a common problem in recording, but the SM7B tackles this with its internal air suspension system. This eliminates unwanted mechanical noise, ensuring that only your voice is captured without extra rumbles or desk vibrations.
- Adjustable Tone Controls – The SM7B features built-in bass roll-off and presence boost switches. These allow artists to fine-tune their recordings, emphasizing clarity or reducing low-end muddiness depending on the voice or instrument being recorded.
- Durability and Longevity – Designed to last, the SM7B has a rugged construction that can withstand years of use. Many legendary voice artists and musicians—including Michael Jackson, who famously recorded parts of Thriller using this mic—have relied on it for decades.
Who Is It For?
- Musicians & Vocalists – The SM7B’s smooth frequency response works exceptionally well for singing and even instrument recording.
- Voice over Artists – Its clear and natural sound makes it a top choice for narration, commercial VO, and audiobook recordings.
- Podcasters & Broadcasters – With built-in noise rejection and rich sound, it’s widely used in professional broadcasting studios.
Considerations
- Requires a Strong Preamp – The SM7B has a low output level, so you’ll need a powerful audio interface or a gain booster like the Cloudlifter CL-1 to get optimal volume.
- XLR Connection Only – Unlike USB mics, it requires an audio interface or mixer to connect to your setup.
Final Verdict
The Shure SM7B remains one of the most reliable and widely used microphones across industries. Whether you’re a voice over artist, musician, or content creator, its combination of broadcast-quality sound, excellent noise rejection, and durability makes it a worthwhile investment. While it may require additional gear to get the best results, the quality of audio it delivers is unmatched, making it a go-to choice for professionals worldwide.
Would you invest in the Shure SM7B for your setup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!