My Native Instruments Komplete Audio 1 with 44dB of gain can run it without any problems, it has really low self noise so even if I crank it to max, it works great
I think another huge benefit to this microphone and why it’s so popular is because it’s so simple. A lot of modern microphones made for streamers and podcasters keep throwing on lots of buttons and touch controls and dozens of features and companion software that might seem really cool at first, but become points of failure the longer you have the mic. Because the Shure SM7b has been around for decades, it has shown inherently that it’s going to last. And obviously that’s not unique to this microphone. I think you say the same about a lot of mics that have become “standards” so to speak. But I think it’s just another reason why it’s so popular, in addition to everything you said. Great video!
I think a key to the popularity of this mic is that it works well in rooms that are less sound proof or treated. Where as many large condenser mics pick up everything, like air conditioning, traffic, doors shutting you name it.
While the RE20 will always personally be my baby as far as broadcast style mics are concerned, the SM7b is an absolutely killer mic for your voice and it’s no surprise as to why you’ve continued to use it consistently for so many years. That dark and smooth tonality just fits like a glove for you. Speaking of which, the RE20 is another mic I wouldn’t mind seeing an updated review for. Especially since that mic seems to be gaining some traction in the past year or so with more and more streamers.
Why is Shure SM7B so popular among streamers? In addition to being a good mic, I think there is also a snowball effect going on: A Twitch streamer who is looking to buy a mic either checks out their favorite streamer or asks a streamer friend. And they see or get recommended Shure SM7B, so they buy the same mic as well. I don't think most people are geeky enough to spend hours/days to check reviews of alternative mics. Successful streamers can easily afford a nice Neumann mic for example, but no Twitch streamer buys them because nobody else is using them.
I think it has the warmest proximity effect of all the budget broadcast mics and that appeals to teenage gamers looking to Roganize their gaggly voices
@@Latzi no it does not I have one it’s a condenser mic I own a TLM 103 a 102 is miles ahead a shure sm7b and it’s like 600$ I own a tlm 103 so it’s more on the expensive side but it doesn’t pick up any sounds unless you have a gang of people talking in your room
There's a good chunk of streamers that buy the RE27N/D, but that was literally because one of them was an audio nerd and they all bought what he was using
Comprehensive and great video, as always :) Other reasons people buy this: 1. Michael Jackson 2. Joe Rogan 3. "I've got money, how do I get this dopamine rush again while upping my game?" 4. every time I look for "best microphone for podcasting / youtube" I end up finding this one, in every test, every list, every comparative 5. some youtubers are trying SO HARD to disprove this that it became an argument in favour of the SM7b. Why would they want to kill their god if it wasn't their god? 6. Looks solid/reliable. Everybody says it'll hold on for decades. 7. $360, not out of stock, it's cheap for quality. 8. last fad was such a disappointment ("blue yeti is the BEST!" - "blue yeti is the WORST!" - "blue yeti isn't bad but it's a condenser, you need to place audio panels on your walls and learn technique") that peeps were looking for something simple that gives you a good result out of the box and for a long time. And everybody says it: it's damn good. Even those who tell you "there's cheaper for the use you have in mind", or those who tell you "I've found better", or those who tell you "just buy a mic and learn post-processing"... agree that it's very good anyway, just overkill. Overkill is what people want when they've got money. 1TB RAM. RTX 3090 Ti SLI. That car that goes faster than any limitation on Earth and than you could possibly attain on a normal road anyway. There you go :) other reasons why people buy the SM7b :)
There are a number of reasons that the SM7b is so popular,. Streaming/podcasting is just another form of broadcast, and the SM7b has proven itself as a standard in that industry for decades. It's nothing special, but it's just a good decent "all-arounder" tool for that job. It's neutral, doesn't exaggerate any particular frequency range, and does well at rejecting room noise. Not to mention that we tend to like things we're familiar with. We've all heard thousands upon thousands of voice recordings made with the SM7b, so subconsciously when someone hears their voice through one, there's a good chance they'll like it because that's the sound signature they've heard countless times. The same thing could be said about the Neumann U87, a good all-arounder with a familiar sound signature.
I've noticed that your reviews, Bandrew, just keep getting better. The Shure SM7B continues to earn its reputation. It sounds like butta. Thanks for including the Earthworks ETHOS. Its my pick of the litter.
I thought so, but then he played the ElectroVoice and that one sounded better. I mean I bought a poop ton of mics 4 SM7B and 2 RE20s, I have others too, I think about 40 (mostly lavs) different brands.
As a former Radio Master Control Room Operator, I can vouch for this mic. It does everything and the most valuable aspect is that it is non-fatiguing. Another alternative is finding an old Sennheiser 421. Although I don't yet own a couple of these Shures in my recording studio, they are on my list as I prepare to launch my vlog. Thanks for the video, Bandrew, and all the best for 2022 to you and your viewers!!! (Damn the Plague!!!)
In case it hasn't been mentioned yet, the "presence boost" setting is a misnomer. The SM7B's capsule has a natural presence peak. With the "presence boost" switch engaged nothing is actually boosted, you are hearing the unmodified sound of the mic which closely resembles its predecessor, the much beloved SM5B, as well as the SM57. This is the setting that should produce the classic Shure sound for broadcasts and podcasts. The SM7B adds EQ using a capacitor and inductor in series to *cut* the upper mid frequencies in the "flat," or "neutral" setting. While a graph will show a flatter frequency response in this setting, that doesn't necessarily translate to a better sound in practice. Most other mics, especially condensers and Shure's own SM57 and SM5B mics, have a non-switchable natural rise in this frequency range that gives them their desirable air and clarity. The SM7B in "flat" or "neutral" mode can sound rather dead or veiled by comparison. The fact that Shure inaccurately calls it a "presence boost" should not deter users from using the mic in this mode, mistakenly believing that it adds EQ. The opposite is true - the un-EQed sound of the mic capsule is with both switches up - that is, presence on and high-pass off.
I first used the SM7B in 2o14 but had it set up entirely wrong and ended up hating it. It wasn’t until last year when I used it with a proper setup that I literally L’d out L at how great it sounded.
As someone who has Both of these I prefer my voice on the Procaster (much deeper/calmer) but 1) is it heavy AF and 2) I lent it to my wife who does therapy over Skype so it's better for therapeutic sound (i.e.: calmer presence).
Hi Bandrew, to solve the issues with the Rode boom arm you can buy a 3 inch extender to fit on the boom nut. Works a treat. My MV7X arrived by courier this morning and can't wait to see how it stacks up. Love your shows. Keep it up.
Awesome video! I just got mine a few weeks ago, and big shoutout to the members of your Discord who helped me check my setup and make it sound like it should.
Thank you for including the part about PreAmps and the fact, that almost all modern, midrange+ audio-interfaces can already drive the SM7B to a totally adequate level without a cloudlifterhead. the amount of money wasted on those instead of buying a proper interface in the first place is insane.
An important caveat I believe is that if you are using the SM7B for live broadcast (most widely used function), then many users would be limited in their ability to use software-means to lower the hiss, and unable to easily "boost volume in post". In this instance, if someone is looking to drastically reduce their noise floor, then an in-line microphone activator like the Cloudlifter could be incredibly useful. I for one love that I don't listen to a constant hiss when monitoring my SM7B in my headphones on live broadcasts, and the noise floor is drastically reduced for my friends/ colleagues on Discord, off stream, on stream, pre and post processed.
I wonder whether it’s just the way you speak and that chatty personality of yours or whether the ShureSM7B is actually giving you some magical powers😁 I have listened to the whole thing and I really appreciate your sense of humour, the way you explain everything not leaving any detail out and how you are being both objective and subjective about the mic. I am studying creative music industry in the UK and your channel is making it so much easier for me, because I am understanding that what I have learnt can be applied practically and it really makes sense! Thank you, subscribed and left a thumbs up :-)
Let's face it, the reason why you're seeing the SM7B all over youtube is everyone is copying Joe Rogan. Everyone and their brother who decided to start their little podcast over the past few years is using the SM7B. Say what you will, the S7MB is one of the most attractive mics out there for anything that is on-camera. I'm not in love with the sound, I found it kind of limiting for my needs. I sold mine last year and picked up a Sennheiser MKH-416. When I worked in radio we used the RE20 and I loved that mic and I've thought about switching out to that. Still chewing on that idea. Anyway, great video!
I think Shure SM7b is one of the easiest mic to work with for majority of amateur, solo TH-camrs, and podcast. Fist, it's great at isolating thump noises, and it works great in an untreated room. The next one I like is Audio Technica AT2040.
I agree that looks are important to some, but I would certainly didn't make it on the top; otherwise Earthwork would be perpetually sold out ;) It certainly helped that the RE20 was only available in puke green beige for so so long. To me the good smooth spoken words are the main reason for its success, but right behind I would put something you didn't: it has stellar background noise rejection. One of the best in that area. And that's a critical area for streamers, and a lot of amateurs outside of studios. Also, it has serious pro credentials. From its multiple uses by Quincy Jones (including on Thriller) to its use in an insane large amount of radio stations, that gave confident to early amateurs to go for it. Then, it snowballed because of streamers. Still, I'm amazed how good the XM8500 sound for its price, everytime I hear it.
I'm so much into dark mics. One of the darkest condensers from Neumann is the U47 (the holy grail of the Microphones) I hope you can get one of those to compare with your best choices for spoken word. Preamps are also important. I would love to hear a good comparison between popular preamps like 1073, API and V76 using your best mics. You could do that even with the emulations from your UAD interface and still will be interesting. Thanks for your videos.
For people new to audio recording: Fairly treated/Untreated room: Shure SM7b > Neumann mic (or any condenser) Well treated room/studio: Shure SM7b < Neumann mic (or any condenser)
Agreed with the majority of your comments.. Another obvious reason why I think this mic has become popular has to do with how many famous artists or podcaster use it or have used it. Who doesn't want to be or sound more like a famous artist or Podcaster? In addition to that, sorta like what you already stated, it looks amazing and not only that, it's so easily recognizable. If this mic is on camera, there is no mistaking it and in a world of hundreds of mic options, to recognize something makes it's familiar and therefore more comfortable to choose and use.
There are so many things you can do with the mic, you can even put the big puffy windscreen on to completely annihilate plosives, but then to offset the "warmed" tone it adds to the mic...turn on the hi-pass on the back of the mic OR the hi-pass and presence boost OR just the presence boost, etc. The mic is so versatile, I love it, I also love the RE20.
Thanks for a great review again. Related to SM7B on acoustic, I also have a video on my channel comparing different mikes on acoustic guitar and the results with the SM7B we’re quite surprising (in a good way).
THIS mic sounds great, as always. I DO love the Neumann U87, but with the right mic preamp into an 1176, it sounds like my favorite records like Chili Peppers and Incubus.
Thanks so much for sharing that. It's a great mic, and I love it, and I will forever. It just works on many sound sources (my voice being one of them).
I must mention. Michael Jackson is always mentioned regarding the Shure SM7B on ‘Thriller’. Just as a comparison, Stevie Wonder sings through the EV RE20 on ‘Superstition’.
I had never appreciated the point that you made about the SM7B reducing sibilance on a wide range of voices. That makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks for the review! Great mic for podcasts and broadcasting but for voiceover work I'd say a condenser like the Rode NT1 or similar is much clearer.
absolutely. keep in mind you gonna need a treated room/space for that otherwise you will have a real bad time with background noise, echo and all of that good stuff.
From this video I think I can conclude that it's the inner demon of Bandrew that has had some very bad experiences with stickers, which is why he seems to hate them so much, but in fact, it's the demon, not Bandrew himself, that hates the stickers.
The is one of my favorite mics. Yes, it is expensive if you don't do professional work. However, I'm not a huge fan of "mic in shot" video framing - so a shotgun mic will likely be a better solution for those that do mostly on-camera work. But, I have one because sometimes I need to do recording in my semi-treated basement or streaming were mic in frame is less of a concern. I'm looking at some nice condensers for my soundbooth since I know the SM7B isn't ideal in that environment.
RE20 i likes most cause it sounds fullest and most flattering - broadcast essence. the Eathworks sounds best overall for $$ IMHO for accuracy BUT the RE20 best for most pleasing - the U87AI is on next level $ wise so yea... for broadcast I like RE20 if I didnt mention that already always have...
Folks, the SM7b is expensive, and it's totally worth it. Definitely need to get a decent preamp or vocal processor; I suggest you use the dbx 286s vocal processor, which gives you more than enough gain as well as signal conditioning that makes it radio-ready in a snap. I bought one almost a decade ago, and this thing has MORE than capably performed for me. The only thing that comes close to value is the Electro-Voice RE320, though that has a hotter output and a more "contemporary" sound. You will NOT regret getting this mic.
Icon pro is one of my favorites but it can be a bit of a plosive monster. *edit* right now I’ve been using a Lauten Audio LS-208 I saw from a video of yours back in the day. It’s been amazing at noise rejection and has that richness without being too muddy ( for my taste any way).
The decision to get a new SM7b was initially because I wanted to ensure that the SM7b that I use in the review wasn’t broken or damaged ultimately skewing the performance. Also I had a heavy curiosity about the change in sound of a mic that’s brand new and one that’s been heavily used for 6+ years.
Thanks mate, are you planning to do a mic tier list or something? Not because everyone else is doing it but to help people out in different categories like podcasts, singing, best value for money etc.
I want to buy a XM8500 but it's a bit difficult to find it available at a good price (I live in Chile) I have a MXL770 and I'm happy with it, but I want a dynamic mic to have more variety and have less background noise in calls this isn't related to the video, but the point is that I made that choice out of your channel great content! (Sorry if I wrote something wrong) love from chile
I've been listening with different earphones (CIEM, ER4SR, and a cheap Sony pair with clearly boosted bass). With the Sony, which is probably more representative of what a lot of people are using than my two other earphones, the U87 sounds best, followed by ... the XM8500. And the SM7b sounds better with the bass roll-off. With the CIEM, an "old" four-BA reference monitor designed by Noble Audio's John Moulton, the Ethos sounds best. The XM8500 may not sound second best, but I'm surprised at how good it sounds even using a high-end IEM. With the ER4SR, which is diffuse-field neutral (a clear sound many people will find bass light), the M201 TG and RE20 sounds best. The M201 TG, being smoother, would win for narration; the RE20, being more articulate, would win for interviews and most podcasts. So which microphones works best on spoken word depends on the type of spoken word, on the voice, on the recoding environment, on the speakers/headphones, and on the preferences of the listener. So many variables!
For why it's so popular, or why it blew up for streaming at least, like with many other things, some popular person used it at some point. Even if it was a bad microphone, it might have happened, but it might not have stayed popular for so long if it was a bad one.
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Hi Bandrew! I was curious after watching this video...so I googled and investigate, why are new shure mics manufactured in China...Here is copied bit of information from Quora for example: Updated Jul 11, 2021 If it's a Shure SM58 and it says made in China then it's a counterfeit microphone. Shure does have a manufacturing facility in China but the Chinese manufacturing facility manufacturers a different line-up of microphones than the Mexican manufacturing facility. The Shure 545SD, 565SD, SM57, SM58 and SM7B are made in Mexico, while the PGA57, PGA58 and the current qeneration Beta 57A and Beta 58A are made in China.
I keep thinking I’m the only one that thinks this, but I see comments like yours regularly on his videos, so I’m clearly not alone, phew. The RE20 makes it feel like he is having a direct conversation with me, it’s just so natural.
These were on sale for 10% off a couple weeks ago (which is hell freezing over). Picked one up before Christmas. Amazon was like "Pay over 5 months no interest if you want." Yes. Yes, I think I'll do that. Grabbed a Klark Teknik CM1 (cloudlifter clone) for $35. My stream loves it.
Nah...it's you man. Seven years can do a lot to a 👨 Didn't know you could shred the 🎸 too 😎 BIG 👍🏽 UP for this overview. What's the setting you'd recommend for someone who has a fairly deep voice and wants that to come through in my podcast? It's why I just bought it. I need that "Darker" tone. I've waited a few years to finally pull the trigger (I have the usual suspects of mics ex: Blue Yeti etc) Did I say brilliant review by the way and the sound through this YT video on a phone is 🎯
What I would still be interested in now would be the new, new SM7B, since this is now made in China instead of Mexico and comes with new packaging. A few days ago I bought the SM7B again because I gave away my old one and had to realize that it now comes from China and no longer from Mexico. I would be interested to know if there is a difference in sound. Nice video.
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I hate the fact that the new SM7B are now made in China...I will check if music stores in my country still have mexican one's left.
The original to me sounds like the mid range emphasis might be slightly higher, whereas the new one sounds like it’s emphasized slightly lower. Could just be quality control. Edit: and then as the video progressed the new one sounded like the old one vice versa so it’s probably just your mic technique.
I really liked the Ethos, but gotta respect that nearly doubled price tag! I wanted to like the RE20 but both it and the Icon, both, seem to have that nasal enhancement function or something that is a little distracting. Not so sure about lead guitar, but wow, perfect on rhythm and bass cabs for that smooth sound. Kind of wondering if it may be a good fit for some close-mic'ed percussion or stuff like a didgeridoo?
@@PaulMDiaz Yep, the RE20 made my voice more thin and much more nasal-sounding than anything else I've used, I'd even prefer using a condenser. It's like the RE20 was designed for boomy voices, i.e., those who need less bass (Variable D), more high end due to a dark boomy voice, and more articulation/ mid range with the increased nasality. The Procaster, RE320 and SM7B all work great for my voice, with the SM7B being the best, narrowly beating out the Procaster.
Hey Bandrew, been watching your videos a lot while looking for a mic and I was wondering if you knew any mics for wind instruments like oboe/clarinet? Especially ones on a budget if possible. Thanks for the awesome videos!
I bought this mic because everyone said it was so iconic and good. Personally, I don't like it for vocals. That switch on it is ridiculous to adjust too.
Could you possibly get your hands on a "Movo VSM-7", I'm considering picking one up, seen a couple of reviews, but I like how in-depth your reviews are and would really like to see yours
I would like to suggest a video where you test if the SM7B has enough power when recording on a phone/tablet(Android if possible)? For context, I am a blind musician. I find that mobile recording software are enough for my use case. It also helps that they're a lot more simplified, and are Text to Speech friendly. I was gifted a Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and found out that it can run the SM7B on it's own(no CL/fetthead) when I watched a Julian Krause review on it. I'm interested in getting the SM7B because other mics can't handle the sound pressure of my loud vocals. I am also not able to sound treat my room. Stay healthy and cheers from Philippines.
No CloudFetLifterHead???? What Kind of Sorcery Is This?🙃
I prefer the DynFetLifterCloudHead
the minifuse is another audio interface that can drive that mic without a Fethead or a cloud lifter.
Absolutely!
I just got a cloudlifter ad immediately after this video 😂
My Native Instruments Komplete Audio 1 with 44dB of gain can run it without any problems, it has really low self noise so even if I crank it to max, it works great
I think another huge benefit to this microphone and why it’s so popular is because it’s so simple. A lot of modern microphones made for streamers and podcasters keep throwing on lots of buttons and touch controls and dozens of features and companion software that might seem really cool at first, but become points of failure the longer you have the mic. Because the Shure SM7b has been around for decades, it has shown inherently that it’s going to last. And obviously that’s not unique to this microphone. I think you say the same about a lot of mics that have become “standards” so to speak. But I think it’s just another reason why it’s so popular, in addition to everything you said. Great video!
I think a key to the popularity of this mic is that it works well in rooms that are less sound proof or treated. Where as many large condenser mics pick up everything, like air conditioning, traffic, doors shutting you name it.
While the RE20 will always personally be my baby as far as broadcast style mics are concerned, the SM7b is an absolutely killer mic for your voice and it’s no surprise as to why you’ve continued to use it consistently for so many years. That dark and smooth tonality just fits like a glove for you. Speaking of which, the RE20 is another mic I wouldn’t mind seeing an updated review for. Especially since that mic seems to be gaining some traction in the past year or so with more and more streamers.
Great video my man but that box throw was one of the worst, 8.5/10
😂
Why is Shure SM7B so popular among streamers? In addition to being a good mic, I think there is also a snowball effect going on: A Twitch streamer who is looking to buy a mic either checks out their favorite streamer or asks a streamer friend. And they see or get recommended Shure SM7B, so they buy the same mic as well. I don't think most people are geeky enough to spend hours/days to check reviews of alternative mics. Successful streamers can easily afford a nice Neumann mic for example, but no Twitch streamer buys them because nobody else is using them.
I think it has the warmest proximity effect of all the budget broadcast mics and that appeals to teenage gamers looking to Roganize their gaggly voices
buying a neumann would make no sence. They pick up way to much roomnoise for a home studio.
@@Latzi no it does not I have one it’s a condenser mic I own a TLM 103 a 102 is miles ahead a shure sm7b and it’s like 600$ I own a tlm 103 so it’s more on the expensive side but it doesn’t pick up any sounds unless you have a gang of people talking in your room
@@Latzi that extra 200$ is going to get you way more then an overrated but awesome looking mic
There's a good chunk of streamers that buy the RE27N/D, but that was literally because one of them was an audio nerd and they all bought what he was using
I've wanted this for years. Really close to actually getting it for my birthday. Without any justification, just because I want it.
Comprehensive and great video, as always :)
Other reasons people buy this:
1. Michael Jackson
2. Joe Rogan
3. "I've got money, how do I get this dopamine rush again while upping my game?"
4. every time I look for "best microphone for podcasting / youtube" I end up finding this one, in every test, every list, every comparative
5. some youtubers are trying SO HARD to disprove this that it became an argument in favour of the SM7b. Why would they want to kill their god if it wasn't their god?
6. Looks solid/reliable. Everybody says it'll hold on for decades.
7. $360, not out of stock, it's cheap for quality.
8. last fad was such a disappointment ("blue yeti is the BEST!" - "blue yeti is the WORST!" - "blue yeti isn't bad but it's a condenser, you need to place audio panels on your walls and learn technique") that peeps were looking for something simple that gives you a good result out of the box and for a long time. And everybody says it: it's damn good. Even those who tell you "there's cheaper for the use you have in mind", or those who tell you "I've found better", or those who tell you "just buy a mic and learn post-processing"... agree that it's very good anyway, just overkill.
Overkill is what people want when they've got money. 1TB RAM. RTX 3090 Ti SLI. That car that goes faster than any limitation on Earth and than you could possibly attain on a normal road anyway.
There you go :) other reasons why people buy the SM7b :)
People see what works and copy that. I think Joe Rogan is the main reason today.
I'm shamelessly admitting of being a mix of 3,4,6 and that overkill part 🤣
I liked the XM8500 pretty well, I'd be curious to see an updated review.
For $20 it’s one of the best values in the audio realm.
@@Podcastage Agree!
Great review. The SM58 sounded surprisingly good against all of the more expensive mics 😃
As far as I know, it’s basically a handheld SM7B, only difference is price, maybe the tone a bit, and the size
Dude, you have the most comprehensive reviews EVER!
That really means a lot. I try to give all the information that someone might need in order to make an informed purchasing decision.
Replaced my sm7b with an ethos and I'm incredibly glad that I did.
There are a number of reasons that the SM7b is so popular,. Streaming/podcasting is just another form of broadcast, and the SM7b has proven itself as a standard in that industry for decades. It's nothing special, but it's just a good decent "all-arounder" tool for that job. It's neutral, doesn't exaggerate any particular frequency range, and does well at rejecting room noise. Not to mention that we tend to like things we're familiar with. We've all heard thousands upon thousands of voice recordings made with the SM7b, so subconsciously when someone hears their voice through one, there's a good chance they'll like it because that's the sound signature they've heard countless times. The same thing could be said about the Neumann U87, a good all-arounder with a familiar sound signature.
I've noticed that your reviews, Bandrew, just keep getting better. The Shure SM7B continues to earn its reputation. It sounds like butta. Thanks for including the Earthworks ETHOS. Its my pick of the litter.
I thought so, but then he played the ElectroVoice and that one sounded better. I mean I bought a poop ton of mics 4 SM7B and 2 RE20s, I have others too, I think about 40 (mostly lavs) different brands.
As a former Radio Master Control Room Operator, I can vouch for this mic. It does everything and the most valuable aspect is that it is non-fatiguing. Another alternative is finding an old Sennheiser 421. Although I don't yet own a couple of these Shures in my recording studio, they are on my list as I prepare to launch my vlog. Thanks for the video, Bandrew, and all the best for 2022 to you and your viewers!!! (Damn the Plague!!!)
The capsule is so well isolated from the body that you can taptap the body without the capsule picking it .. THAT GOOD.
In case it hasn't been mentioned yet, the "presence boost" setting is a misnomer. The SM7B's capsule has a natural presence peak. With the "presence boost" switch engaged nothing is actually boosted, you are hearing the unmodified sound of the mic which closely resembles its predecessor, the much beloved SM5B, as well as the SM57. This is the setting that should produce the classic Shure sound for broadcasts and podcasts.
The SM7B adds EQ using a capacitor and inductor in series to *cut* the upper mid frequencies in the "flat," or "neutral" setting. While a graph will show a flatter frequency response in this setting, that doesn't necessarily translate to a better sound in practice. Most other mics, especially condensers and Shure's own SM57 and SM5B mics, have a non-switchable natural rise in this frequency range that gives them their desirable air and clarity. The SM7B in "flat" or "neutral" mode can sound rather dead or veiled by comparison.
The fact that Shure inaccurately calls it a "presence boost" should not deter users from using the mic in this mode, mistakenly believing that it adds EQ. The opposite is true - the un-EQed sound of the mic capsule is with both switches up - that is, presence on and high-pass off.
The xm8500 has got to be the best deal I've ever seen at $20. So glad I listened to you first, rather spend hundreds of dollars.
Im still impressed with the Behringer XM 8500 quality for its price
One of the best values in audio.
I first used the SM7B in 2o14 but had it set up entirely wrong and ended up hating it. It wasn’t until last year when I used it with a proper setup that I literally L’d out L at how great it sounded.
2oI4
2oi4
What's your setup?
with volt 276 works great without a cloud lifter, use that mic for 2 years and i am happy with my choice, thank you for ur reviews!!!
Rode Procaster seems to be such a good mic for the money. Much softer syllibants than the others. Quality sound.
As someone who has Both of these I prefer my voice on the Procaster (much deeper/calmer) but 1) is it heavy AF and 2) I lent it to my wife who does therapy over Skype so it's better for therapeutic sound (i.e.: calmer presence).
Hi Bandrew, to solve the issues with the Rode boom arm you can buy a 3 inch extender to fit on the boom nut. Works a treat. My MV7X arrived by courier this morning and can't wait to see how it stacks up. Love your shows. Keep it up.
Awesome video! I just got mine a few weeks ago, and big shoutout to the members of your Discord who helped me check my setup and make it sound like it should.
Thank you for including the part about PreAmps and the fact, that almost all modern, midrange+ audio-interfaces can already drive the SM7B to a totally adequate level without a cloudlifterhead. the amount of money wasted on those instead of buying a proper interface in the first place is insane.
I made a video about it months ago: th-cam.com/video/yYQOqpPa1tI/w-d-xo.html
Dang...I bought one at the sane time I got this mic (today).
I have the Focusrite and it seems I don't need the additional preamp I got for $90!
@@coach.b true. my sympathies
An important caveat I believe is that if you are using the SM7B for live broadcast (most widely used function), then many users would be limited in their ability to use software-means to lower the hiss, and unable to easily "boost volume in post". In this instance, if someone is looking to drastically reduce their noise floor, then an in-line microphone activator like the Cloudlifter could be incredibly useful.
I for one love that I don't listen to a constant hiss when monitoring my SM7B in my headphones on live broadcasts, and the noise floor is drastically reduced for my friends/ colleagues on Discord, off stream, on stream, pre and post processed.
the earthworks icon sounds absolutely wonderful even compared to the sm7b
I wonder whether it’s just the way you speak and that chatty personality of yours or whether the ShureSM7B is actually giving you some magical powers😁
I have listened to the whole thing and I really appreciate your sense of humour, the way you explain everything not leaving any detail out and how you are being both objective and subjective about the mic.
I am studying creative music industry in the UK and your channel is making it so much easier for me, because I am understanding that what I have learnt can be applied practically and it really makes sense!
Thank you, subscribed and left a thumbs up :-)
You forgot to say that the SM7B is one of the most attractive mics ever created.
I finally decided to get a dynamite (se dm1) for my v7 and I fell in love with it all over again. Thanks for the review
You deserve way more subs man. One of the best channels out there.
Let's face it, the reason why you're seeing the SM7B all over youtube is everyone is copying Joe Rogan. Everyone and their brother who decided to start their little podcast over the past few years is using the SM7B. Say what you will, the S7MB is one of the most attractive mics out there for anything that is on-camera. I'm not in love with the sound, I found it kind of limiting for my needs. I sold mine last year and picked up a Sennheiser MKH-416. When I worked in radio we used the RE20 and I loved that mic and I've thought about switching out to that. Still chewing on that idea. Anyway, great video!
Still at the top of your game!! Bravo!
With mics like the Ethos and SM7b to make me sound less bad, I’m better off. Ha.
this video is so good, quality testing and review as well as a really good personality.
Just got the SM7B and this was a huge help @Podcastage!
Congratulations on the mic. I hope you're really enjoying it.
I really like the "palette cleanser" thing you do in between changes, that was really smart!
I think Shure SM7b is one of the easiest mic to work with for majority of amateur, solo TH-camrs, and podcast. Fist, it's great at isolating thump noises, and it works great in an untreated room. The next one I like is Audio Technica AT2040.
As usual, terrific mic review Bandrew! Have yourself a very Happy New Year! Be well and stay safe out there! 👍👍🎤🎤🎤🎤👍👍
That reaction he has when the box hit the other mics on his shelf.
Ethos is superb on your voice!
I agree that looks are important to some, but I would certainly didn't make it on the top; otherwise Earthwork would be perpetually sold out ;) It certainly helped that the RE20 was only available in puke green beige for so so long.
To me the good smooth spoken words are the main reason for its success, but right behind I would put something you didn't: it has stellar background noise rejection. One of the best in that area. And that's a critical area for streamers, and a lot of amateurs outside of studios.
Also, it has serious pro credentials. From its multiple uses by Quincy Jones (including on Thriller) to its use in an insane large amount of radio stations, that gave confident to early amateurs to go for it. Then, it snowballed because of streamers.
Still, I'm amazed how good the XM8500 sound for its price, everytime I hear it.
I use the Shure sm7b with my Rodecaster Pro for my podcast (My Stuttering Life) and I have the RE20 for my voice overs. I love both of these mics!!!!
Between the 3 which one do you prefer when doing simple Teams/Skype calls?
@@jplanglais ._.
@@jplanglais I use the Shure, it gives my voice that deep base....
I'm so much into dark mics. One of the darkest condensers from Neumann is the U47 (the holy grail of the Microphones) I hope you can get one of those to compare with your best choices for spoken word. Preamps are also important. I would love to hear a good comparison between popular preamps like 1073, API and V76 using your best mics. You could do that even with the emulations from your UAD interface and still will be interesting. Thanks for your videos.
Check out booth junky’s video on the cad e100SX. It’s super duper nice if you you like dark mics.
For people new to audio recording:
Fairly treated/Untreated room: Shure SM7b > Neumann mic (or any condenser)
Well treated room/studio: Shure SM7b < Neumann mic (or any condenser)
Agreed with the majority of your comments.. Another obvious reason why I think this mic has become popular has to do with how many famous artists or podcaster use it or have used it. Who doesn't want to be or sound more like a famous artist or Podcaster? In addition to that, sorta like what you already stated, it looks amazing and not only that, it's so easily recognizable. If this mic is on camera, there is no mistaking it and in a world of hundreds of mic options, to recognize something makes it's familiar and therefore more comfortable to choose and use.
Well this review is gonna be interesting for being an industry standard for microphones.
Holy shit this video is released perfectly timed for me cause I'm looking forward to buy the mic thank you for your hard work!
There are so many things you can do with the mic, you can even put the big puffy windscreen on to completely annihilate plosives, but then to offset the "warmed" tone it adds to the mic...turn on the hi-pass on the back of the mic OR the hi-pass and presence boost OR just the presence boost, etc. The mic is so versatile, I love it, I also love the RE20.
Thanks for a great review again. Related to SM7B on acoustic, I also have a video on my channel comparing different mikes on acoustic guitar and the results with the SM7B we’re quite surprising (in a good way).
I own one and bought for Alt/Rock vocals. Soon I will put it too work and see how it does before I purchase a Neuman TLM102. Thanks for the info.
Hope you have a great new year Bandrew! Such a useful review as always.
THIS mic sounds great, as always. I DO love the Neumann U87, but with the right mic preamp into an 1176, it sounds like my favorite records like Chili Peppers and Incubus.
Thanks so much for sharing that. It's a great mic, and I love it, and I will forever. It just works on many sound sources (my voice being one of them).
Currently have the Shure MV7. Hoping to upgrade to the SM7B sometime down the road. Nonetheless, another top notch review!! 💯
Great review. I keep seesawing on t SM7B. Yes, it’s the darkness of it. Your review does help me think I my need one eventually, though. Thanks
The mic 🎤 is a legend, and although I don't really need it now, I am definitely going to have one in the future. I love the sound of voice over.
I’m a simple man, I see a podcastage video I click
Just what I was looking for! Thank you !!! 🔥🙏
I must mention. Michael Jackson is always mentioned regarding the Shure SM7B on ‘Thriller’. Just as a comparison, Stevie Wonder sings through the EV RE20 on ‘Superstition’.
MJ sang on an SM7, which sounds a tad different.
I had never appreciated the point that you made about the SM7B reducing sibilance on a wide range of voices. That makes a lot of sense. Thanks for the great video!
Thanks for the review! Great mic for podcasts and broadcasting but for voiceover work I'd say a condenser like the Rode NT1 or similar is much clearer.
absolutely. keep in mind you gonna need a treated room/space for that otherwise you will have a real bad time with background noise, echo and all of that good stuff.
You can use EQ to fix that.
Happy New Year Bandrew!
From this video I think I can conclude that it's the inner demon of Bandrew that has had some very bad experiences with stickers, which is why he seems to hate them so much, but in fact, it's the demon, not Bandrew himself, that hates the stickers.
Elgato Wave XLR is amazing for this mic. It has double the gain of most interfaces so powering this mic is nothing and there's no noise.
The is one of my favorite mics. Yes, it is expensive if you don't do professional work. However, I'm not a huge fan of "mic in shot" video framing - so a shotgun mic will likely be a better solution for those that do mostly on-camera work. But, I have one because sometimes I need to do recording in my semi-treated basement or streaming were mic in frame is less of a concern. I'm looking at some nice condensers for my soundbooth since I know the SM7B isn't ideal in that environment.
I can't wait for your take on the SE Dynacaster , it looks like a comparable alternative to the SM7B .
RE20 i likes most cause it sounds fullest and most flattering - broadcast essence. the Eathworks sounds best overall for $$ IMHO for accuracy BUT the RE20 best for most pleasing - the U87AI is on next level $ wise so yea... for broadcast I like RE20 if I didnt mention that already always have...
Agree
SM7b is a bit dark for my taste, not terrible by any means, but the RE20 blows it away for natural sounding voice
Folks, the SM7b is expensive, and it's totally worth it. Definitely need to get a decent preamp or vocal processor; I suggest you use the dbx 286s vocal processor, which gives you more than enough gain as well as signal conditioning that makes it radio-ready in a snap.
I bought one almost a decade ago, and this thing has MORE than capably performed for me. The only thing that comes close to value is the Electro-Voice RE320, though that has a hotter output and a more "contemporary" sound.
You will NOT regret getting this mic.
Icon pro is one of my favorites but it can be a bit of a plosive monster.
*edit* right now I’ve been using a Lauten Audio LS-208 I saw from a video of yours back in the day. It’s been amazing at noise rejection and has that richness without being too muddy ( for my taste any way).
Amazing performance 👏 at the end of this year, thanks a lot, Bandrew!
Why did you buy a new SM7B?
The decision to get a new SM7b was initially because I wanted to ensure that the SM7b that I use in the review wasn’t broken or damaged ultimately skewing the performance. Also I had a heavy curiosity about the change in sound of a mic that’s brand new and one that’s been heavily used for 6+ years.
@@Podcastage Very good idea💡. Thank you for providing us with this information.
Thanks mate, are you planning to do a mic tier list or something? Not because everyone else is doing it but to help people out in different categories like podcasts, singing, best value for money etc.
I want to buy a XM8500 but it's a bit difficult to find it available at a good price (I live in Chile)
I have a MXL770 and I'm happy with it, but I want a dynamic mic to have more variety and have less background noise in calls
this isn't related to the video, but the point is that I made that choice out of your channel
great content! (Sorry if I wrote something wrong) love from chile
Since you are redoing reviews of microphones I think Sennheiser E 835 might deserve e new one
I've been listening with different earphones (CIEM, ER4SR, and a cheap Sony pair with clearly boosted bass).
With the Sony, which is probably more representative of what a lot of people are using than my two other earphones, the U87 sounds best, followed by ... the XM8500. And the SM7b sounds better with the bass roll-off.
With the CIEM, an "old" four-BA reference monitor designed by Noble Audio's John Moulton, the Ethos sounds best. The XM8500 may not sound second best, but I'm surprised at how good it sounds even using a high-end IEM.
With the ER4SR, which is diffuse-field neutral (a clear sound many people will find bass light), the M201 TG and RE20 sounds best. The M201 TG, being smoother, would win for narration; the RE20, being more articulate, would win for interviews and most podcasts.
So which microphones works best on spoken word depends on the type of spoken word, on the voice, on the recoding environment, on the speakers/headphones, and on the preferences of the listener. So many variables!
I'll be buying one of these soon
For why it's so popular, or why it blew up for streaming at least, like with many other things, some popular person used it at some point. Even if it was a bad microphone, it might have happened, but it might not have stayed popular for so long if it was a bad one.
Hi Bandrew! I was curious after watching this video...so I googled and investigate, why are new shure mics manufactured in China...Here is copied bit of information from Quora for example: Updated Jul 11, 2021
If it's a Shure SM58 and it says made in China
then it's a counterfeit microphone.
Shure does have a manufacturing facility in China
but the Chinese manufacturing facility
manufacturers a different line-up of microphones
than the Mexican manufacturing facility.
The Shure 545SD, 565SD, SM57, SM58 and
SM7B are made in Mexico, while the PGA57,
PGA58 and the current qeneration Beta 57A and
Beta 58A are made in China.
I prefer the sound of the RE20, even on your voice.
I keep thinking I’m the only one that thinks this, but I see comments like yours regularly on his videos, so I’m clearly not alone, phew.
The RE20 makes it feel like he is having a direct conversation with me, it’s just so natural.
These were on sale for 10% off a couple weeks ago (which is hell freezing over). Picked one up before Christmas. Amazon was like "Pay over 5 months no interest if you want." Yes. Yes, I think I'll do that. Grabbed a Klark Teknik CM1 (cloudlifter clone) for $35. My stream loves it.
I don't know if it's been said before but the Neumann is very nice
Ethos is my pick, but also I am one of those high-pitched people barking the RE20 is more my jam.
Nah...it's you man. Seven years can do a lot to a 👨
Didn't know you could shred the 🎸 too 😎
BIG 👍🏽 UP for this overview.
What's the setting you'd recommend for someone who has a fairly deep voice and wants that to come through in my podcast?
It's why I just bought it. I need that "Darker" tone. I've waited a few years to finally pull the trigger (I have the usual suspects of mics ex: Blue Yeti etc)
Did I say brilliant review by the way and the sound through this YT video on a phone is 🎯
what do you think about shure mv51 in 2022? do you still recomend this mic? thanks
What I would still be interested in now would be the new, new SM7B, since this is now made in China instead of Mexico and comes with new packaging.
A few days ago I bought the SM7B again because I gave away my old one and had to realize that it now comes from China and no longer from Mexico.
I would be interested to know if there is a difference in sound. Nice video.
I hate the fact that the new SM7B are now made in China...I will check if music stores in my country still have mexican one's left.
@ the China is actually just as good as the Mexico. I compared them. The China even seemed a bit more voluminous to me.
@@BenniOderSoo I will definitely try...in the end of the day, quality control is the most important thing.
@ that's true!
Its a litlle bit expensive but the mic is incredible, i have a Razer Seiren Elite and it sounds similar but its not the same, nice video dude
The original to me sounds like the mid range emphasis might be slightly higher, whereas the new one sounds like it’s emphasized slightly lower. Could just be quality control.
Edit: and then as the video progressed the new one sounded like the old one vice versa so it’s probably just your mic technique.
I just love mine, and I tried A LOT of options. ;)
When you used the U87ai it sounded as if you suddenly lifted that blanket the was thrown on all the mics used before.
Man, you really love the sm7b, right? tons of content about it lately. I love it too...
My whole life savings for sm7b has started but just to realized I still need a cloudlifter
Have you considered comparing the Shure SM57 EQ'd to sound like the SM7b? And if you have, what did you think of the results?
RE20 seems very nice.
I really liked the Ethos, but gotta respect that nearly doubled price tag! I wanted to like the RE20 but both it and the Icon, both, seem to have that nasal enhancement function or something that is a little distracting. Not so sure about lead guitar, but wow, perfect on rhythm and bass cabs for that smooth sound. Kind of wondering if it may be a good fit for some close-mic'ed percussion or stuff like a didgeridoo?
100 % on the nasal tone of the RE20. I stop saying this to people who like that mic cause they usually get offended.
@@PaulMDiaz Yep, the RE20 made my voice more thin and much more nasal-sounding than anything else I've used, I'd even prefer using a condenser. It's like the RE20 was designed for boomy voices, i.e., those who need less bass (Variable D), more high end due to a dark boomy voice, and more articulation/ mid range with the increased nasality. The Procaster, RE320 and SM7B all work great for my voice, with the SM7B being the best, narrowly beating out the Procaster.
Please re-review the shure sm58
Hey Bandrew, been watching your videos a lot while looking for a mic and I was wondering if you knew any mics for wind instruments like oboe/clarinet? Especially ones on a budget if possible. Thanks for the awesome videos!
great review, do you think it exists something better at same (or lower) price than the Shure MV7X?
is it just me, or is it really muddy like someone threw a blanket over the mic?
I wouldn't call it muddy, at all, but it's darker than the more modern sound of most big condensers for sure.
Agree. Sounds too muffled to me. Not a fan.
Hello! is there a difference in sound between shure sm7b made in Mexico and made in China, if both are original? did you do the test?
I bought this mic because everyone said it was so iconic and good. Personally, I don't like it for vocals. That switch on it is ridiculous to adjust too.
Awesome video ! Which is the best microphone for max 3 feet away and still good and loud ?
Could you possibly get your hands on a
"Movo VSM-7", I'm considering picking one up, seen a couple of reviews, but I like how in-depth your reviews are and would really like to see yours
I would like to suggest a video where you test if the SM7B has enough power when recording on a phone/tablet(Android if possible)?
For context, I am a blind musician. I find that mobile recording software are enough for my use case. It also helps that they're a lot more simplified, and are Text to Speech friendly. I was gifted a Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen and found out that it can run the SM7B on it's own(no CL/fetthead) when I watched a Julian Krause review on it. I'm interested in getting the SM7B because other mics can't handle the sound pressure of my loud vocals. I am also not able to sound treat my room.
Stay healthy and cheers from Philippines.