Thank you, I ordered the mic and my heart dropped when I opened it and saw nothing would work. After watching so many videos this made sense. I just ordered everything else I needed through your links. Thanks for a clear video that helped a very non-techie health coach.
As I'm watching this video, I would like to point out a few things that I've noticed: 1.) the stand connector you mentioned is optional, as there are stands with 5/8s in connectors available 2.) you do not necessarily need a cloudlifter depending on what mixer you have. To my knowledge the Go XLR is the only one strong enough to power the SM7B, as it has 72db of gain, and the Sm7B needs at least 60 db of gain. A lot of people make these mistakes, mainly because they tend to not be as experienced in the field of professional audio as others
In a situation where you are able to do some degree of post production, setting your SM7b to 60dB of gain isn't necessarily the best choice, as it doesn't give you any headroom, meaning that if you decide to talk louder or scream it will clip. While the GoXLR is fine, there are better quality options that cost cheaper. The most important thing when you have a SM7b is to invest in a very good interface with quiet preamps, which makes the 2i2 a pretty poor choice actually.
@@MARUKU Well you also have to think about how many inputs the mixer has. So if you buy a 200 dollar mixer with 4 inputs, you're essentially buying a 50 dollar preamp. Thats why a lot of people tend to prefer the Go XLR for their SM7B.
Is the 2nd point basically suggesting that we can substitute (the following): 1 XLR cable 1 cloudlifter 1 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Interface in exchange for: 1 GO XLR?
Absolutely fantastic video. As someone who knows nothing about audio setups but is looking to start a TH-cam channel and have very clean audio I *very* much appreciate this
I will be making technical content on cybersecurity and the core concepts that lead up to cybersecurity. Currently I tutor online and I see a lot of need for videos that explain complex topics in an easy-to-understand way. That's my goal with my videos :)
I went with the Audient Evo4 for my XLR/USB interface and the Fethead instead of the Cloudlifter and got an amazingly nice sound setup for even less than the one you've displayed here. Might want to look into the Evo4 at least as it is pretty awesome. Also, the Fethead can plug directly into the interface OR the SM7B (which is how I have it), allowing for just ONE high-quality XLR cable to be necessary. I also went with the Samson MBA28 Mic Boom - half the price of the Rode and is amazingly strong and stable. This setup is radio-studio quality, and I use it to record my radio program which I then send into the station as COVID rules has had the on-site studio shut down.
So you just go from the shure mic to a XLR to USB adapter and just plug into computer and that's it? Is there any noise? What I mean...is I see a lot of adapters produce noise.
@@derekroberts5931The noise floor on this setup is almost completely silent. It's so good that I record talk radio program episodes that get broadcast on a local radio station here in Madison with it.
I don’t comment at all on TH-cam. But I have to give you your credit bro. Well broken down, simple, detailed, straight to the point, and quick. Thank you 😤🦁
Subscribed. This is exactly what I was looking for. Beautifully done and recorded; wonderful job Lane. Thank you! I look forward in seeing more from you
Your Video was quite straight forward and did show many things needed. However, it wasn’t without certain quirks, which I feel some additional advice might help other to make the right decisions. If one decides to buy that microphone AND an audio interface, there is not necessarily the need for an additional inline preamplifier, like the Cloud Microphone CL-1 (or „Cloudlifter“, as they dubbed their series of preamps). If you get an audio interface with a strong, low-noise preamp in it. And there are options across the price range. Behringer UMC202HD at the low end, MOTU M2 at the mid tier class are just two examples. Both will - even with the preamps cranked give you a self-noise low enough, to render additional preamplifiers useless. The ambient noise will most likely be above the self noise, especially in noisier, untreated rooms. To put it another way: Your setup is hardly the cheapest. The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 currently is sold for 149 EUR / 169 USD. The Cloud Microphones „Cloudlifter“ CL-1 is currently sold for 169 EUR / 149 USD. (Yes it’s more expensive in Europe) This combination of Interface and Preamp accumulates to 318 EUR / 318 USD. The MOTU M2 is sold for 195 EUR / 179 USD (yep, again more expensive in Europe) By no means, I would ever call your setup bad hardware. You will get very good results out of it. In fact, I’m not even sure your interface on it’s own would be too weak to begin with. The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 provides 47 dB of gain. And don’t be scared to run it with the gain cranked. It’s ultra low noise anyways. I’m not sure how much you’d actually need to get to a signal strength of -20dB talking normally. But with a low noise interface like that, you can probably even get away with a signal strength of-24dB, since you need some post processing to get the most out of your mic anyways. There was one thing you said about the Cloudlifter CL-1, while it was correct, should be completed: Yes, the Cloudlifter doesn’t clip the microphone, because it only adds up to 25dB of gain. (I wrote „up to“ because the exact amount of gain you get partly depends on the input impedance of the Interface among other factors.) The rest of the gain comes from the interface. But with the gain on the interface set too high, you obviously still clip the sound out of any microphone if you add an additional preamp. While I don’t know, what microphones you know, I at least can add something to the topic of comparing the RØDE NTG to the Shure SM7B. The RØDE NTG is a small diaphragm condenser microphone, designed to be used at a distance. The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone, designed to be used up close. But that doesn’t mean, they cannot be used the other way around. If you position the RØDE NTG up close and set the gain accordingly, you will be shocked, how little room noise and echoes it would pick up. But that comes at the price of requiring a very good micelles technique and probably a shock mount + a pop filter to work the best. Also the sound will be very boomy and muddy If unprocessed. On the other hand, the Shure SM7B used at a distance would do exceedingly worse than the RØDE NTG in terms of ambient noise. Also the Sound would be thins and hollow and it would need a LOT of gain. Why is that? The RØDE NTG has a super cardioid pickup pattern. This pickup pattern is slightly worse at noise rejection directly behind the microphone, but a lot better at rejecting sound from the side, forcing the sound source to be more centered. The Shure SM7B has a cardioid pickup pattern, which again is better at noise rejection from behind the microphone but picks up more from the sides, which usually covers a bigger area of usually sound reflective surfaces in a room. Also, about the topic of „No microphone like The Shure SM7B“: I’m s(h)ure I can find plenty of alternatives. Yes, the SM7B has a certain look to it and since everyone want to be like the big podcasters or streamers, this might be some factor. But in terms of functionality, It’s easy: The Shure SM58, the Shure A55M Shock mount, the Shure A58WS wind shield. These will result in a way less expensive, (141 EUR / 127 USD) smaller, light-weight (410g / 0.9 lbs) package, which still sounds similar to the SM7B, to the point where most listeners will struggle to tell any difference between the two. And if you want the super cardioid pickup pattern, get the Shure Beta 58A, with the same shock mount and wind shield for 191 EUR / 187 USD and a weight of 360g / 0.8 lbs. That being said: Whoever is willing to take this route, cannot use the RØDE PSA-1 Boom Arm, because that one is designed for use with microphones between 700 grams and 1100 grams of weight. But there are plenty of arms and stands available for microphones this lightweight.
Woah, Michael! This is the most comprehensive comment I've ever received on one of my videos! I learned some things reading through your thoughts. I really appreciate your watching my video and offering your perspective. Your knowledge of audio and mics far exceeds mine! Thanks again for offering your thoughts.
I haven't even finished watching your video and I already know that you're gonna show me everything I've been looking for. Great video, and greetings from Brazil!
Thank you so much for making the entire process easy and straightforward. Bought everything exactly with the links and was able to setup my shure in less than an hour. Probably the best tutorial I've ever seen on TH-cam.
I have tons of video about Shure SM7B, and i never understood how it flows to your computer, thank you for breaking it down, very clear to understand, much appreciated. I am considering investing in it, but how would you hide it from the camera / webcam view (e.g when you are doing conference call, or recording yourself via webcam or camera) to that you still great audio without it blocking the view? Thank again, keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing! Glad it was helpful. For that you’d turn up the gain using the interface so you could have it 8-10 inches away from your mouth. I see some ppl do that snd it seems to work fine. Thanks again!!
Just buy a small diagraphm condenser microphone like Oktava MK012 and hang it above you like he does with the NTG3, I don´t recommend using shotgun mic at home, they are meant to be used outside, they pickup so much noise on background, everything would be heard. The small diagraphm condenser microphone is beign used by filmmakers to record narration
Thank you, I was able to set it up exactly like this, here is a first video I created with it, and I think the audio sounds good. th-cam.com/video/L0Gq-YmrCrE/w-d-xo.html
Awesome video! I personally don't use the extender as the elgato boomarm offers much better room for the cable. Also the cloudlifter i am not so sure about. I don't think you really need it with decent mic placement. It does work some but i don't feel like it justifies the price. Peace fam. ✌️
Great video. I'm really wanting a Shure SM7B, but I don't think I'm going to be able to budget everything in. So I may end up having to drop down to something like the At 2040 or the Rode Podmic. But I love how this video was no fluff. It was straight to the point with all the information that I needed IF I somehow get the money for the SM7B
It was a great tutorial, but the only thing I would recommend is that you don’t get right on the mic like this, maybe 4 finger widths away, and have it slightly to the side so you’re talking more past it than directly into it. That would help fight off Plosives, when you words with P or T and you get the rush of air hitting the mic. But everything else was good. But luckily with interfaces like the El Gato Wave XLR out now, a cloud lifter isn’t fully needed anymore, saving $200 Canadian
_"oh I finally saved up enough for the shure SM7B!!!!! Wait, what do you mean I have to spend another 400 dollars on the accessory's?"_ ~Timothy, probably
What does that even mean? You'll need a cloudlifter and focusrite or something similar, plus a boom arm and an xlr cable. You dont think thats extra for a mic? There arent any videos out there of relevance offering things that dont benefit your mic, just like the accessories offered here. Ive been through every single shure Sm7b on the first 2 pages on TH-cam in the last week so I know from recent memory. But anyway, you got your heart from the creator so I guess thats probably what you really wanted rather than to make any real constructive point about anything based in reality.
@@DrummerJacob I mean to be fair this is the first time I've needed to buy a cloudlifter (and an extra xlr cable) for a mic. I also didn't know I would need this extender accessory to attach it to the mic stand, so I see where he's coming from.
@@DrummerJacob Why is the fact his reality of watching videos and people not going over this stuff, as a likely non XLR user prior to this mic, so offensive to you? Stop trying to make people feel bad because they found help they were after, Jesus
So thankful you did this video.. i plan on buying one, to upgrade my home office as i work from home in insurance... I will be using this for work calls (skype/zoom/conference calls).. but also use it for streaming in my personal time. and making videos or podcasting.. So good to know what all i need and how to set it up...
Having had the exact same setup, I would just like to share some thoughts. This setup is very expensive for what it does. The cloudlifter is IMHO not worth buying, its 150-200 dollars (depending on region) for 25 dbs of "clean" gain. For the same price you could get the dbx 286s, which offers 45 dbs of clean gain, compression, gate/expander, a de-esser and high and low frequency enhancers. It is rack-size thoug, but I just have it lying on the floor. It's sturdily built. However, If I were to get a new SM7B audio chain today, I would try to get the Motu M2, which acts as an interface and will provide plenty of clean gain to power the sm7b. It can double as a very high quality soundcard/dac-amp and gives you the lowest lantecy possible. It comes in at about the same price or a bit more than just the cloudlifter, but you would be saving the costs of buying the scarlett. Words cannot describe how good the Motu M2 is, but perhaps the fact that it is out of stock all the time can haha. You save money and gain sound quality and lower latency, what is there to complain about.
Thanks for the video! Though I'm late by 2 years lol. This is such a CLEAR video showing how the SM7b perform. I wonder why TH-cam only shows me this video after searching for things related to SM7b/SM57 for so long
hey, first of all: nice tutorial on how you could use the sm7b! You could buy an extra cheap tube preamp instead of the cloudlifter for better sound. for example the A.R.T. tube mp goes for around 30$ or even 20$ used. It provides a nicer, warmer sound and even offers 70db of gain wich is fairly enough for the shure sm7b. for the rest of the money you saved from not buying a cloudlifter, you could get a nice dbx compressor for example. In my opinion this would be a much better sounding setup. Greetings from Germany
Hey Latzi, ich wollte mir das sm7b holen und bin ein kompletter Anfänger. Ich möchte wie du erwähnt hast nicht unbedingt ein cloudlifter holen um einfach das Geld zu sparen. Daher wärst du so lieb mir zu erklären was ich alles für das sm7b bräuchte um es fürs Streamen zu benutzen? LG Onur
@@onurkeles686 Aber klar doch. Um das SM7b zu betreiben brauchst du eigentlich nur ein solides Interface. Beispiele dafür wären zum Beispiel das NI Komplete Audio 1/2. Wichtig ist nur, dass du es so besprichst, wie es auch gedacht ist. Also von Vorne aus nicht mehr als 5cm Entfernung. Dann brauchst du auch nicht so viel Gain (Lautstärke) um auf einen guten Pegel zu kommen. Bevor du dir aber zum streamen ein solch teures und in meinen Augen dumpf klingendes Mikrofon holst, solltest du definitiv mal einen Blick auf die Konkurrenz werfen. Das Rode Procaster, Shure sm57 oder aber ein Se V7 klingen wirklich hammer! Für die gilt auch: gutes Interface und von nahem besprechen. für genauere Infos und Hilfe kannst du gerne auf den Discord discord.gg/u9dZgmT3b2 joinen. Da sind einige Hobby Tontechniker und ich :) Wir helfen gerne.
@@AskAW I like to have really nice stuff it's just how I am. Maybe I'll start making youtube videos or doing some freelance work involving my voice. Or just to talk to people online. I bought the mic, I'll put it to good use.
@@LaneSebringlive I’m watching this for the parts segment I didn’t think the cloud lifter and arm would be as expensive as it is as the interface/mixer I got a goxlr though
Cool video and good explanation. I tested all the components in the video and I would go with an Audient id14 mk2 instead of the Focusrite 2i2. The Audient has much cleaner preamps which means you can turn the knob much further before getting ugly noise. The 2i2 tends to add quite some noise if you turn further than about 75-80%.
Can I just buy this and use the usb to connect with my mac? Is it all I need? Just a laptop and the mic itself? or do i need any other things like filter thing separately? i need to know because if it’s just the mic and ready to go i’m buying it thanks.
@@LaneSebringlive true that, we both have our points, and other people won’t always go for this microphone, either way, great video, this taught me a couple of things, thank you, and enjoy your day! ❤️
I work in radio and my prod studio has both the EV-RE-20 and SM-7B... I prefer the SM-7B. Both are hooked to Symetrix 528e processors. We have 4 SM-7B's hooked up to DBX processors in another studio. Crisp... clean... SM-7B's are worth it in my humble radio opinion. (of course how you set the processing is key).
I've been doing a lot of research. I know your video is a few years old, but helped me with my purchase. I did go a different route though. I bought the goXLR instead of the Scarlette and Cloud Lifter just because of the features. All arrive tomorrow. Thanks for the vid!!
Lane, you said that you NEED the Shure extender which isn't true. you can just connect the mic straight to any boom arm or mic stand. But I would still recommend the extender because it is helpful.
I ended up buying the Cloudlifter and Shure Mic Extender and I'm having my wife bring them back to the Philippines in her luggage. I hope you get affiliate credit. Thanks a lot.
Lane Thank you homie! I got th exact same setup. Do you have a video about how you connect that mic to a windows computer? It would be greatly appreciated! When i connect mine to my windows computer its like i cant hear anything and i cant figure out how to actually get it set up!
THANK YOU!!! This video is literally so helpful for beginners like myself. I was thinking of buying this mic along with the Shure SM57 to record instruments, if you could make a video about that as well that would be dope 🤘
Thanks for this! I ordered this whole setup and have been using it. I have a few questions: 1. I turned the gain to as high as it will go without turning red, and it’s still too quiet. Is there anything I can do about that? 2. Where do you recommend having the switches on the mic? 3. Why is the playback only coming through one ear?
I will definitely use your link, how do you connect to your camera (was there any wire that connect from interface to the camera? Could you explain please. Thank you!!
I record the audio separately from the video. Then I sync them in editing. It's super easy and allows me to record the audio straight into my computer.
Thank you for this great tutorial! I’m having a problem with major sibilance. I don’t hear any in your recording. Any pro-tips? I’ve been able to reduce is some in the recording software, but am I mistaken to think that your set up is automatically canceling it? 🙏✨💛
One of my favorite, most versatile mic out there! Great, not only for broadcasting, but its my choice for many applications including guitar cabs and drum kits. It’s awesome to catch the bottom snare due to its sturdy SPL. It’s also the mic used for the vocals on thriller. (Sm7A) Common practice from Swedien was to use mics not typically used for the purpose he was using it. Great choice!
Okay, I absolutely LOVE the sound on this but perhaps you can tell me one thing - while trying to stream live using OBS on three separate occasions the mic dropped out. The only way I could solve it was to reboot completely. Do you have any ideas on what this might be? I'm sure it relates to the Scarlett (and I'll see if tech support there can help me) but I was wondering if you'd ever either heard or experienced such a thing. (Note: kind of ruined my live streaming but, heck, no big loss).
Thank you for this!! I’m planning on investing in a new mic since my current one was specific for a budget (literally $40 cad). So this was helpful. :)
thanks for this informative video!now i can pull the trigger to grab this set up!im upgrading my sound set up for my gaming streaming,coz right niw im just using a usb mic hyperXquadcastS,i been checking this SM7B since lst year!now is the time!👍
Thanks so much for watching! Grab your FREE Super Simple Guide to Your First $500 Online: www.lanesebring.com/supersimple
So is it good for gaming like streaming and recording
@@TheQuestExpresslol
jesus finally someone who breaks it down that it's easier to understand for beginners. THANK YOU.
@Li Huang I'm a beginner and I'm about to buy a shure sm7b + goxlr😅
@Li Huang such as?
God just not exist. You just stupid, author just not said something extra knoledge
@@AlejandroFedorov wrong
Ain't it the truth! The multi-lingual getting started brochures seem to miss one step after another! EVERY LITTLE STEP matters! Thanks!
Thank you, I ordered the mic and my heart dropped when I opened it and saw nothing would work. After watching so many videos this made sense. I just ordered everything else I needed through your links. Thanks for a clear video that helped a very non-techie health coach.
That’s so great! Thank you for sharing and using my links! Very glad the video helped make sense of this mic. 🙌
Immensely helpful. Most other videos take 6 mins just to unbox the mic and you do it quick and straight to the point!
As I'm watching this video, I would like to point out a few things that I've noticed:
1.) the stand connector you mentioned is optional, as there are stands with 5/8s in connectors available
2.) you do not necessarily need a cloudlifter depending on what mixer you have. To my knowledge the Go XLR is the only one strong enough to power the SM7B, as it has 72db of gain, and the Sm7B needs at least 60 db of gain.
A lot of people make these mistakes, mainly because they tend to not be as experienced in the field of professional audio as others
good thoughts! Thanks for sharing.
In a situation where you are able to do some degree of post production, setting your SM7b to 60dB of gain isn't necessarily the best choice, as it doesn't give you any headroom, meaning that if you decide to talk louder or scream it will clip. While the GoXLR is fine, there are better quality options that cost cheaper.
The most important thing when you have a SM7b is to invest in a very good interface with quiet preamps, which makes the 2i2 a pretty poor choice actually.
@@MARUKU Well you also have to think about how many inputs the mixer has. So if you buy a 200 dollar mixer with 4 inputs, you're essentially buying a 50 dollar preamp. Thats why a lot of people tend to prefer the Go XLR for their SM7B.
My UAD Apollo Twin is also running the mic just fine.
Is the 2nd point basically suggesting that we can substitute (the following):
1 XLR cable
1 cloudlifter
1 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Interface
in exchange for:
1 GO XLR?
Thank you, this massively helped buying the right equipment
Are you still using all the equipment after surpassing 1 million subs?
Absolutely fantastic video. As someone who knows nothing about audio setups but is looking to start a TH-cam channel and have very clean audio I *very* much appreciate this
Thanks Jacob! What will your channel be about?
I will be making technical content on cybersecurity and the core concepts that lead up to cybersecurity. Currently I tutor online and I see a lot of need for videos that explain complex topics in an easy-to-understand way. That's my goal with my videos :)
@@jacobbrown1445 Nice! Good luck!
Literally the only video about this mic that made sense to me. Thank you so much!
So great to hear! Thanks for watching.
Same here. I know next to nothing about audio setups but this video actually explained it in plain English. Appreciate it so much
@@jacobbrown1445 so glad to hear that, Jacob! Thank you.
There are like hundreds of these videos on TH-cam showing how to use SM7B and Cloudlifter lol
@@luk7n and yet, this is the one that made sense to him. The number of other videos is immaterial.
I went with the Audient Evo4 for my XLR/USB interface and the Fethead instead of the Cloudlifter and got an amazingly nice sound setup for even less than the one you've displayed here. Might want to look into the Evo4 at least as it is pretty awesome. Also, the Fethead can plug directly into the interface OR the SM7B (which is how I have it), allowing for just ONE high-quality XLR cable to be necessary. I also went with the Samson MBA28 Mic Boom - half the price of the Rode and is amazingly strong and stable. This setup is radio-studio quality, and I use it to record my radio program which I then send into the station as COVID rules has had the on-site studio shut down.
So you just go from the shure mic to a XLR to USB adapter and just plug into computer and that's it? Is there any noise? What I mean...is I see a lot of adapters produce noise.
@@derekroberts5931The noise floor on this setup is almost completely silent. It's so good that I record talk radio program episodes that get broadcast on a local radio station here in Madison with it.
I don’t comment at all on TH-cam. But I have to give you your credit bro. Well broken down, simple, detailed, straight to the point, and quick. Thank you 😤🦁
So glad you liked it! Thanks for letting me know.
Subscribed. This is exactly what I was looking for. Beautifully done and recorded; wonderful job Lane. Thank you! I look forward in seeing more from you
Really appreciate that!! Thank you!!
Great explanation for dummies like me who want to get a good mic but don't understand anything about anything. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! It can be confusing for sure!
Your Video was quite straight forward and did show many things needed. However, it wasn’t without certain quirks, which I feel some additional advice might help other to make the right decisions.
If one decides to buy that microphone AND an audio interface, there is not necessarily the need for an additional inline preamplifier, like the Cloud Microphone CL-1 (or „Cloudlifter“, as they dubbed their series of preamps). If you get an audio interface with a strong, low-noise preamp in it. And there are options across the price range. Behringer UMC202HD at the low end, MOTU M2 at the mid tier class are just two examples. Both will - even with the preamps cranked give you a self-noise low enough, to render additional preamplifiers useless. The ambient noise will most likely be above the self noise, especially in noisier, untreated rooms.
To put it another way: Your setup is hardly the cheapest. The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 currently is sold for 149 EUR / 169 USD. The Cloud Microphones „Cloudlifter“ CL-1 is currently sold for 169 EUR / 149 USD. (Yes it’s more expensive in Europe) This combination of Interface and Preamp accumulates to 318 EUR / 318 USD. The MOTU M2 is sold for 195 EUR / 179 USD (yep, again more expensive in Europe)
By no means, I would ever call your setup bad hardware. You will get very good results out of it. In fact, I’m not even sure your interface on it’s own would be too weak to begin with. The Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 provides 47 dB of gain. And don’t be scared to run it with the gain cranked. It’s ultra low noise anyways. I’m not sure how much you’d actually need to get to a signal strength of -20dB talking normally. But with a low noise interface like that, you can probably even get away with a signal strength of-24dB, since you need some post processing to get the most out of your mic anyways.
There was one thing you said about the Cloudlifter CL-1, while it was correct, should be completed: Yes, the Cloudlifter doesn’t clip the microphone, because it only adds up to 25dB of gain. (I wrote „up to“ because the exact amount of gain you get partly depends on the input impedance of the Interface among other factors.) The rest of the gain comes from the interface. But with the gain on the interface set too high, you obviously still clip the sound out of any microphone if you add an additional preamp.
While I don’t know, what microphones you know, I at least can add something to the topic of comparing the RØDE NTG to the Shure SM7B. The RØDE NTG is a small diaphragm condenser microphone, designed to be used at a distance. The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone, designed to be used up close. But that doesn’t mean, they cannot be used the other way around.
If you position the RØDE NTG up close and set the gain accordingly, you will be shocked, how little room noise and echoes it would pick up. But that comes at the price of requiring a very good micelles technique and probably a shock mount + a pop filter to work the best. Also the sound will be very boomy and muddy If unprocessed. On the other hand, the Shure SM7B used at a distance would do exceedingly worse than the RØDE NTG in terms of ambient noise. Also the Sound would be thins and hollow and it would need a LOT of gain. Why is that? The RØDE NTG has a super cardioid pickup pattern. This pickup pattern is slightly worse at noise rejection directly behind the microphone, but a lot better at rejecting sound from the side, forcing the sound source to be more centered. The Shure SM7B has a cardioid pickup pattern, which again is better at noise rejection from behind the microphone but picks up more from the sides, which usually covers a bigger area of usually sound reflective surfaces in a room.
Also, about the topic of „No microphone like The Shure SM7B“: I’m s(h)ure I can find plenty of alternatives. Yes, the SM7B has a certain look to it and since everyone want to be like the big podcasters or streamers, this might be some factor. But in terms of functionality, It’s easy: The Shure SM58, the Shure A55M Shock mount, the Shure A58WS wind shield. These will result in a way less expensive, (141 EUR / 127 USD) smaller, light-weight (410g / 0.9 lbs) package, which still sounds similar to the SM7B, to the point where most listeners will struggle to tell any difference between the two. And if you want the super cardioid pickup pattern, get the Shure Beta 58A, with the same shock mount and wind shield for 191 EUR / 187 USD and a weight of 360g / 0.8 lbs.
That being said: Whoever is willing to take this route, cannot use the RØDE PSA-1 Boom Arm, because that one is designed for use with microphones between 700 grams and 1100 grams of weight. But there are plenty of arms and stands available for microphones this lightweight.
Woah, Michael! This is the most comprehensive comment I've ever received on one of my videos! I learned some things reading through your thoughts. I really appreciate your watching my video and offering your perspective.
Your knowledge of audio and mics far exceeds mine! Thanks again for offering your thoughts.
Finally someone who gives the people what they want.
Glad you like it!
Great video thanks would've guesse that your channel is so much bigger! Keep going
Thank you! Means a lot!
I haven't even finished watching your video and I already know that you're gonna show me everything I've been looking for. Great video, and greetings from Brazil!
Awesome! Thank you!
sm7b is legendary for a reason.
thank you so much i did not even know what i was getting into
Glad it was helpful!
Same there’s so much that goes into it, I thought I would just be able to plug in my adapter
Thank you so much for making the entire process easy and straightforward. Bought everything exactly with the links and was able to setup my shure in less than an hour.
Probably the best tutorial I've ever seen on TH-cam.
You're very welcome!
I have tons of video about Shure SM7B, and i never understood how it flows to your computer, thank you for breaking it down, very clear to understand, much appreciated. I am considering investing in it, but how would you hide it from the camera / webcam view (e.g when you are doing conference call, or recording yourself via webcam or camera) to that you still great audio without it blocking the view?
Thank again, keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing! Glad it was helpful. For that you’d turn up the gain using the interface so you could have it 8-10 inches away from your mouth. I see some ppl do that snd it seems to work fine. Thanks again!!
Just buy a small diagraphm condenser microphone like Oktava MK012 and hang it above you like he does with the NTG3, I don´t recommend using shotgun mic at home, they are meant to be used outside, they pickup so much noise on background, everything would be heard. The small diagraphm condenser microphone is beign used by filmmakers to record narration
@@LaneSebringlive Yes and by putting more gain you are putting more noise to it
Thank you, I was able to set it up exactly like this, here is a first video I created with it, and I think the audio sounds good.
th-cam.com/video/L0Gq-YmrCrE/w-d-xo.html
finally somebody who isn't super objective and gets straight to the point. tired of all of these reviewers with extremely bias opinions.
Great video bro. Thanks a lot.
Glad you liked it!
el padre Dani! Aquí ando también mirando settings xD Que vaya todo bien y mucha salud!
Focusrite 2i2 is truly a beast, I been using mine forever over 6 years now no issues
Awesome to hear!!
Yes but nowdays you can buy better ones
Hey thanks that was incredibly helpful! My recordings finally sound professional thanks to the Cloudlifter and your instructions.
Glad I could help!
so thankful for this video specially the extender part.
Awesome video!
I personally don't use the extender as the elgato boomarm offers much better room for the cable.
Also the cloudlifter i am not so sure about. I don't think you really need it with decent mic placement. It does work some but i don't feel like it justifies the price.
Peace fam. ✌️
Hi I already know a lot about the sm7b just came here to make sure I didn't miss anything thank you
This is an amazing video. Very informative and straight to the point. Bravo
Thank you! Means a lot. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
Best Shure SM7B Mic video I’ve seen on TH-cam! I finally understand what I need to buy and why! Thank you 🙏
I love hearing that!! Thank you! Glad it helped!
Great video. I'm really wanting a Shure SM7B, but I don't think I'm going to be able to budget everything in. So I may end up having to drop down to something like the At 2040 or the Rode Podmic. But I love how this video was no fluff. It was straight to the point with all the information that I needed IF I somehow get the money for the SM7B
THanks for watching and for your kind words!
You have completely sold me. Thank you for making this so straight forward.
Awesome! You'll love it.
Very good video btw thanks for this, definitely underrated I was surprised when I saw your subs 😅
Thank you! Means a lot!
It was a great tutorial, but the only thing I would recommend is that you don’t get right on the mic like this, maybe 4 finger widths away, and have it slightly to the side so you’re talking more past it than directly into it. That would help fight off Plosives, when you words with P or T and you get the rush of air hitting the mic.
But everything else was good. But luckily with interfaces like the El Gato Wave XLR out now, a cloud lifter isn’t fully needed anymore, saving $200 Canadian
Finally no one tells you what you need extra for the mic
Yep! That's why I wanted to share! Thanks for commenting!
_"oh I finally saved up enough for the shure SM7B!!!!! Wait, what do you mean I have to spend another 400 dollars on the accessory's?"_ ~Timothy, probably
What does that even mean? You'll need a cloudlifter and focusrite or something similar, plus a boom arm and an xlr cable. You dont think thats extra for a mic?
There arent any videos out there of relevance offering things that dont benefit your mic, just like the accessories offered here.
Ive been through every single shure Sm7b on the first 2 pages on TH-cam in the last week so I know from recent memory. But anyway, you got your heart from the creator so I guess thats probably what you really wanted rather than to make any real constructive point about anything based in reality.
@@DrummerJacob I mean to be fair this is the first time I've needed to buy a cloudlifter (and an extra xlr cable) for a mic. I also didn't know I would need this extender accessory to attach it to the mic stand, so I see where he's coming from.
@@DrummerJacob Why is the fact his reality of watching videos and people not going over this stuff, as a likely non XLR user prior to this mic, so offensive to you? Stop trying to make people feel bad because they found help they were after, Jesus
So thankful you did this video.. i plan on buying one, to upgrade my home office as i work from home in insurance... I will be using this for work calls (skype/zoom/conference calls).. but also use it for streaming in my personal time. and making videos or podcasting.. So good to know what all i need and how to set it up...
Awesome! You'll love it!
Having had the exact same setup, I would just like to share some thoughts. This setup is very expensive for what it does. The cloudlifter is IMHO not worth buying, its 150-200 dollars (depending on region) for 25 dbs of "clean" gain. For the same price you could get the dbx 286s, which offers 45 dbs of clean gain, compression, gate/expander, a de-esser and high and low frequency enhancers. It is rack-size thoug, but I just have it lying on the floor. It's sturdily built.
However, If I were to get a new SM7B audio chain today, I would try to get the Motu M2, which acts as an interface and will provide plenty of clean gain to power the sm7b. It can double as a very high quality soundcard/dac-amp and gives you the lowest lantecy possible. It comes in at about the same price or a bit more than just the cloudlifter, but you would be saving the costs of buying the scarlett. Words cannot describe how good the Motu M2 is, but perhaps the fact that it is out of stock all the time can haha. You save money and gain sound quality and lower latency, what is there to complain about.
Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! I'll definitely check out the Motu M2 and review it. Thanks again!
DBX has 60dB of gain
@@luk7n ye but it has weird tonal qualities on the sm7b at full gain and >-15 db output in my experience. Realistically gives 45db, but you are right.
The best video on this mic that helped me get my set up right! The extender is a must for the shure sm7b for sure. Thank you!
Glad it helped! Thanks for sharing!
Great vid, thank you! Is there any reason I shouldn't get the "Solo" Focusrite? I have no plans to ever add a 2nd mic.
yep! Totally works. You only need the 2i2 if you're planning to use a second mic. otherwise, the solo works great!
@@LaneSebringlive Thank you!
Thanks for the video! Though I'm late by 2 years lol. This is such a CLEAR video showing how the SM7b perform. I wonder why TH-cam only shows me this video after searching for things related to SM7b/SM57 for so long
hey, first of all: nice tutorial on how you could use the sm7b! You could buy an extra cheap tube preamp instead of the cloudlifter for better sound. for example the A.R.T. tube mp goes for around 30$ or even 20$ used. It provides a nicer, warmer sound and even offers 70db of gain wich is fairly enough for the shure sm7b. for the rest of the money you saved from not buying a cloudlifter, you could get a nice dbx compressor for example. In my opinion this would be a much better sounding setup. Greetings from Germany
Thanks for sharing!
Hey Latzi, ich wollte mir das sm7b holen und bin ein kompletter Anfänger.
Ich möchte wie du erwähnt hast nicht unbedingt ein cloudlifter holen um einfach das Geld zu sparen.
Daher wärst du so lieb mir zu erklären was ich alles für das sm7b bräuchte um es fürs Streamen zu benutzen?
LG Onur
@@onurkeles686 Aber klar doch. Um das SM7b zu betreiben brauchst du eigentlich nur ein solides Interface. Beispiele dafür wären zum Beispiel das NI Komplete Audio 1/2. Wichtig ist nur, dass du es so besprichst, wie es auch gedacht ist. Also von Vorne aus nicht mehr als 5cm Entfernung. Dann brauchst du auch nicht so viel Gain (Lautstärke) um auf einen guten Pegel zu kommen. Bevor du dir aber zum streamen ein solch teures und in meinen Augen dumpf klingendes Mikrofon holst, solltest du definitiv mal einen Blick auf die Konkurrenz werfen. Das Rode Procaster, Shure sm57 oder aber ein Se V7 klingen wirklich hammer! Für die gilt auch: gutes Interface und von nahem besprechen. für genauere Infos und Hilfe kannst du gerne auf den Discord discord.gg/u9dZgmT3b2 joinen. Da sind einige Hobby Tontechniker und ich :) Wir helfen gerne.
FINALLY!!! I been trying to find a video for everything I needed ! God bless you 😂❤
glad it was helpful!
How about for singing and singing heavy metal ?
SM7B is awesome for singing. Used in a lot of studios.
Michael Jackson used this Mic...or a very similar version. So yes, I think if it’s good enough for him...it’s good enough for anyone
Dude, most metal bands use SM7B, so what do you think?
A great no-nonsense tutorial, straight to the point - thanks a lot!
Very happy to deliver that! Thank you.
Why did you choose the 2i2 and not the solo 3rd gen? Just curious was all, is the 2i2 better?
I like having the option of a second mic for when I do in person interviews.
@@LaneSebringlive Got it! Thanks for the reply!
So if I just need to plug in one mic the solo 3rd gen is fine?
@@M4CHINE Yes
You finally get another subscriber from me...am a beginner and this is good work indeed I loved it .... can't wait for more from you 😘
Thank you 🙌
Around $900 to set this up including the arm. Gets expensive. I want one, not sure if I want to drop almost a grand on the setup
It’s definitely not cheap.
What are you planning on creating? If you're not concerned about quality audio, stick with your current setup.
@@AskAW I like to have really nice stuff it's just how I am. Maybe I'll start making youtube videos or doing some freelance work involving my voice. Or just to talk to people online. I bought the mic, I'll put it to good use.
@@LaneSebringlive I’m watching this for the parts segment I didn’t think the cloud lifter and arm would be as expensive as it is as the interface/mixer I got a goxlr though
Cool video and good explanation. I tested all the components in the video and I would go with an Audient id14 mk2 instead of the Focusrite 2i2. The Audient has much cleaner preamps which means you can turn the knob much further before getting ugly noise. The 2i2 tends to add quite some noise if you turn further than about 75-80%.
In other words, "I'm never going to be able to get this microphone."
simple as see your video and understand everything in a short minute
awesome brother you win a new subscriber
Total amount for everything in this video: $745
You must have found some good deals! It's typically just under $900
@@LaneSebringlive Sorry I didn't count the boom arm as I already have one. So its $745 for everything not counting the boom arm.
@@Ryzse Gotcha! still not cheap. ;)
Can I just buy this and use the usb to connect with my mac? Is it all I need? Just a laptop and the mic itself? or do i need any other things like filter thing separately? i need to know because if it’s just the mic and ready to go i’m buying it thanks.
you need an audio interface with it, this mic is quite dB hungry
you dont need a cloudlifter
What do we use then?
the fuck is a voice gate @CalebPlays13
Perfect vid for what I needed, thanks dude. Clear, concise, no bs. Rare nowadays!
"wont break the bank" $700?
$700 is a great deal for all this. It’s usually around $900 for this setup.
But yes, more to your point, it’s not for everyone.
@@LaneSebringlive true that, we both have our points, and other people won’t always go for this microphone, either way, great video, this taught me a couple of things, thank you, and enjoy your day! ❤️
I work in radio and my prod studio has both the EV-RE-20 and SM-7B... I prefer the SM-7B. Both are hooked to Symetrix 528e processors. We have 4 SM-7B's hooked up to DBX processors in another studio. Crisp... clean... SM-7B's are worth it in my humble radio opinion. (of course how you set the processing is key).
I've been doing a lot of research. I know your video is a few years old, but helped me with my purchase. I did go a different route though. I bought the goXLR instead of the Scarlette and Cloud Lifter just because of the features. All arrive tomorrow. Thanks for the vid!!
Glad I could help!
Hi was the cloud lifter worth buying?
Lane, you said that you NEED the Shure extender which isn't true. you can just connect the mic straight to any boom arm or mic stand. But I would still recommend the extender because it is helpful.
I personally own a K&M 23860 with my Shure sm7b and i don't have to use the extender because i can move the microphone around with free movement.
Thanks for making this man! I wasn't quite sure if I was buying the right equipment. But now I am.
Awesome!! So glad to know it was helpful!
I love how straightforward and easy-to-follow this video was. Thank you! 😊
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and commenting!
I've been looking for a video this clear for a couple years. Thank you so much!
You're very welcome!
i had bought it for my music , this mic is a banger
That's awesome! yeah, the mic is incredible
I ended up buying the Cloudlifter and Shure Mic Extender and I'm having my wife bring them back to the Philippines in her luggage. I hope you get affiliate credit. Thanks a lot.
Awesome, thank you! You’ll love them!
Great video, Lane. Exactly what I was looking for. I went and purchased everything on the list. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you!
Thank you for such a thorough walkthrough!!! BTW unrelated. I love how big your desk looks. Do you have a link to the desk?
Thanks! Unfortunately it's custom made by a carpenter friend of mine. He's made me four of them and they're all amazing.
TH-cam recommended this to me and I'm happy it did!
Great video and simple to understand for those who don't know much about audio and acoustics!
Thank you!
Lane Thank you homie! I got th exact same setup. Do you have a video about how you connect that mic to a windows computer? It would be greatly appreciated!
When i connect mine to my windows computer its like i cant hear anything and i cant figure out how to actually get it set up!
Thanks! Unfortunately no I don't. Only use macs. Sorry I'm not more help here.
thanks i was thinking about geting this and now i will because of how you helped me set it up
So glad I could help! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Hey just to let you know the mic can sound 100x better you just have to have the right settings for it and it sounds really good
This video was awesome! You have a clear, concise way of explaining the information! Had to subscribe!! All the best!
Thank you! I really appreciate that!
bro this is a god tier video
Glad you like it!
amazing, straight to the point and clean tutorial, thank you for doing this!
This was so helpful. Thanks for taking the time to post this!
So glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching and for your kind words!
entrepreneur and tech savvy channel?
Love to see more content from you!
Yes, and thanks!!
I use the Shure without the cludlifer on the Behringer Xenyx 802 USB and it works for me.
Awesome!
Thanks sooo much! Every other vid never shows you how to put it up and stuff! Subbed :D
So glad I could help! Thank you so much for subbing and commenting!
Yes, brilliant break down & simple to follow … my next question - what is your recommended software for VO?
I use Screenflow for just about everything, and thank you!
The rhode sounds awesome as well without it being close to your mouth.
THANK YOU!!! This video is literally so helpful for beginners like myself. I was thinking of buying this mic along with the Shure SM57 to record instruments, if you could make a video about that as well that would be dope 🤘
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video. Has anyone set this up without the cloudlifter? If so, how was it? cheers
Dude - thank you for the simple breakdown!
Thank you! I just subscribed because how you made this so much easier to understand.
Awesome, thank you!
Thanks for this! I ordered this whole setup and have been using it. I have a few questions:
1. I turned the gain to as high as it will go without turning red, and it’s still too quiet. Is there anything I can do about that?
2. Where do you recommend having the switches on the mic?
3. Why is the playback only coming through one ear?
So helpful! There is little documentation online (even on Shure's site) on the exact needs for getting this Mic hooked up...they should hire you :)
Thank you, Ryan!
Good I got the scarlet 2i2 now for the mic to micro center.
Thanks so much for the help! I'm in the process of creating a streaming setup for twitch and this helped greatly.
Awesome! So glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching! Good luck to you.
Will probably spending some more money with all the extra accessories needed. something to consider before getting the mic immediately
I had to subscribe! Thank you for uploading a clean and simple video on this mic. Straight to the point and very helpful👏🏻
Thanks for watching and subscribing!!
I will definitely use your link, how do you connect to your camera (was there any wire that connect from interface to the camera? Could you explain please. Thank you!!
I record the audio separately from the video. Then I sync them in editing. It's super easy and allows me to record the audio straight into my computer.
Great video! Currently in love with the SM7B 🙌🏼
Thanks for watching! And yes, it is a great mic!!
Hi there, how different would a cloudlifter be vs the sE DM1? They are both inline pre-amp. Thank in advance. wonderful video
I’m getting all of them except for the cloud. Is the cloud important? And does it make your mic work?
You can always start without it and only get it if you need more clean gain.
Thank you for this great tutorial! I’m having a problem with major sibilance. I don’t hear any in your recording. Any pro-tips? I’ve been able to reduce is some in the recording software, but am I mistaken to think that your set up is automatically canceling it? 🙏✨💛
One of my favorite, most versatile mic out there! Great, not only for broadcasting, but its my choice for many applications including guitar cabs and drum kits. It’s awesome to catch the bottom snare due to its sturdy SPL. It’s also the mic used for the vocals on thriller. (Sm7A) Common practice from Swedien was to use mics not typically used for the purpose he was using it. Great choice!
Great to hear!
You sir are awesome 😎 thank you… best video by far explaining how it all works and a link for everything item which made it so simple 👏 thanks
You're welcome!
Good job man! you answered all questions i had about this! I have the mic and cloud activator but dont have the audio interface. Got more work to do!
So great to hear! Thanks for watching!
Okay, I absolutely LOVE the sound on this but perhaps you can tell me one thing - while trying to stream live using OBS on three separate occasions the mic dropped out. The only way I could solve it was to reboot completely. Do you have any ideas on what this might be? I'm sure it relates to the Scarlett (and I'll see if tech support there can help me) but I was wondering if you'd ever either heard or experienced such a thing. (Note: kind of ruined my live streaming but, heck, no big loss).
Thank you for this!! I’m planning on investing in a new mic since my current one was specific for a budget (literally $40 cad). So this was helpful. :)
So great! Thanks for sharing!
thanks for this informative video!now i can pull the trigger to grab this set up!im upgrading my sound set up for my gaming streaming,coz right niw im just using a usb mic hyperXquadcastS,i been checking this SM7B since lst year!now is the time!👍
You’ll love it!
Yo!!!!!!! Thank u so much for this video! It’s really helpful to setup 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽I’m definitely subscribing🙌🏽🙌🏽