Shure SM7B
The broadcast standard that built a generation of podcasters
Best for: Podcasters and streamers who want broadcast-quality vocal presence in less-than-perfect rooms
Check price on AmazonThe SM7B is a cardioid dynamic XLR microphone with internal air-suspension shock mounting and switchable bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis. It delivers a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response that's equally at home on a voice or a vocal. This is the mic that launched a thousand podcasts - and for good reason.
Key features
- Dynamic cardioid, XLR only
- 50 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response
- Internal air-suspension shock mount
- Switchable bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis
- Detachable windscreen and close-talk windscreen included
- 150 ohm output impedance
Our take
There's a reason every serious podcasting setup photo has an SM7B in it - the off-axis rejection is excellent and the cardioid pattern forgives a lot of bad room acoustics. The built-in switchable EQ settings (bass rolloff, mid-range boost) let you dial in a sound without touching software. The one real caveat: it needs serious gain - if you're going straight into a budget interface, you'll be reaching for a Cloudlifter or an SM7dB. Plan accordingly.
Pros
- Outstanding off-axis rejection in untreated rooms
- Switchable EQ on the mic body itself
- Built like a tank - lasts decades
- Consistent, flattering vocal sound
Cons
- Needs a lot of gain - budget interfaces will introduce noise
- XLR only, no USB option
- Heavy for some lightweight boom arms
