Introduction
When it comes to professional-grade microphones for streaming, podcasting, and vocal recording, the Shure SM7B stands as an industry icon. Used by countless professionals from Joe Rogan to top Twitch streamers, this dynamic microphone has earned its reputation through decades of consistent performance.
But at nearly $400, is it worth the investment for your streaming setup? This comprehensive review will help you decide if the SM7B deserves a place in your content creation arsenal.
Build Quality and Design
The Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone is built like a tank. Its all-metal construction feels premium and durable, designed to last for decades rather than years. The microphone has a professional, understated appearance that looks great on camera without drawing unnecessary attention.
The integrated shock mount effectively reduces vibrations from desk bumps or keyboard typing, while the included windscreen does an excellent job minimizing plosives (those harsh “p” and “b” sounds) without needing an external pop filter.
Sound Quality
This is where the SM7B truly shines. The microphone delivers warm, rich vocals with a presence that’s hard to match. The frequency response is tailored specifically for speech, with a slight presence boost that makes voices sound natural yet polished.
As a dynamic microphone, the SM7B excels at rejecting background noise. It won’t pick up your mechanical keyboard, computer fans, or ambient room noise nearly as much as condenser alternatives. This focused pickup pattern means you can stream in less-than-ideal acoustic environments while still sounding professional.
Setup and Requirements
Here’s where potential buyers should pay close attention: the SM7B is a gain-hungry microphone. It requires significant amplification to reach optimal recording levels. You’ll need either:
- A powerful audio interface with high-gain preamps (like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or better)
- A dedicated preamp like the Cloudlifter CL-1
- A mixer with sufficient gain
This additional equipment requirement adds to the already premium cost of the microphone itself. You’ll also want a sturdy boom arm to position the relatively heavy microphone properly.
Performance for Streaming
For streamers, the SM7B offers several advantages:
- Consistent sound regardless of how you move in relation to the microphone
- Excellent rejection of keyboard, mouse, and controller sounds
- Professional broadcast quality that viewers will notice
- Durability to withstand long streaming sessions and regular use
The microphone’s cardioid polar pattern means it primarily captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This is ideal for streaming setups where you want to focus on your voice while minimizing background noise.
