The Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone, often hailed as the go-to choice for professional broadcasters, podcasters, and increasingly, YouTubers. Its reputation for delivering rich, smooth audio makes it a tempting option for content creators looking to elevate their audio quality. In this detailed review, we'll explore various aspects of the Shure SM7B, including sound quality, durability, price, compatibility, and portability, to determine if it's truly the best microphone for YouTubers.
Sound Quality
The Shure SM7B excels in delivering professional-grade audio clarity and richness. It features a flat, wide-range frequency response which preserves the natural beauty of the spoken voice. It's also equipped with a bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis (presence boost) controls, allowing users to adapt the mic to both their voice and recording conditions. This makes it incredibly versatile whether you're recording in a studio or a less controlled environment.
One of the standout features of the SM7B is its excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum. This is particularly useful for YouTubers who have setups with computer monitors, neon lights, or other electronic devices that can introduce noise. It ensures that your recordings are free from annoying interference, maintaining a clean and professional sound.
However, it's important to note that the SM7B has a relatively low output level, which means it requires a good preamp to boost the signal. Users often pair it with a Cloudlifter or a FetHead to achieve the best results. This is an additional investment but is generally considered worthwhile for the audio quality improvement it offers.
Durability
Shure is known for building robust microphones, and the SM7B is no exception. It features a solid construction with a thick metal body and a strong, detachable windscreen that can withstand the rigors of regular use. This durability makes it an excellent investment for YouTubers who need reliable equipment that can handle frequent setups and adjustments.
The microphone's design also includes internal "air suspension" shock isolation that virtually eliminates mechanical noise transmission. This is crucial when recording video, as it minimizes the sounds from typing, mouse clicks, or other desk-related noises.
Price
The Shure SM7B is not the cheapest option on the market, typically retailing around $400. While this may be a significant investment for some, the microphone's performance and durability justify the cost for serious content creators. It's a professional-level piece of equipment that, when used correctly, can significantly enhance the audio quality of your YouTube videos.
For those on a tighter budget, it's worth considering whether the SM7B's features will directly benefit your specific recording needs or if a less expensive microphone could meet your requirements. However, for those willing to invest, the SM7B rarely disappoints.
Compatibility
The SM7B is a dynamic microphone with an XLR connection, which means it requires an audio interface or mixer with a decent preamp to function correctly. This is an essential consideration for potential buyers. The microphone performs best with interfaces that can provide clean gain without noise, such as the GoXLR or Yamaha AG06, although these may require additional settings adjustments or external devices like a Cloudlifter for optimal performance.
It's also compatible with most standard microphone stands, but due to its weight, a sturdy boom arm or stand is recommended. Cheaper, less durable stands may struggle to hold the microphone securely, especially in a boom arm setup.
Portability
While primarily designed for studio settings, the SM7B's robust build also makes it surprisingly portable. However, its need for a good preamp and an audio interface means that it's not the most 'plug-and-play' friendly for on-the-go recordings compared to USB microphones or more mobile-centric solutions.
Conclusion
The Shure SM7B is a top-tier microphone that offers unmatched sound quality and versatility, making it a popular choice among professional YouTubers and audio enthusiasts. While its price and the additional requirement for a good preamp and interface may be a barrier for some, the investment can significantly elevate the production value of your content. If you're serious about your YouTube audio quality and looking for a microphone that can deliver professional, broadcast-quality sound, the Shure SM7B should be at the top of your list.
