Thanks to a dual XLR and USB output, the MV7 will slot seamlessly into your current tech configuration. The supported USB-C/USB-A output for PC and Mac is extremely useful, while a pro XLR output can be used to connect to mixers, interfaces and any other audio gear you might have to hand. Android: Oreo 8.0 and higher, USB Host Power Requirement of ≥ 100 mA, USB Audio Class 1.1 support and higher This is where a microphone like the Shure MV7 comes in. It’s not quite a match for the SM7B when it comes to sound quality, despite the similar appearance; however its USB connectivity makes it far easier to get started with and its sound quality is extremely good. Limiter and Compressor settings Fine tune your audio with limiter and compressor controls. See "Advanced Mic Settings" for more information. The MV7 is also much smaller, lighter and convenient than the SM7B. Anyone seriously considering an SM7B will know that you’ll need a fairly beefy mic preamp offering at least 60 decibels of clean gain to get the sound the pros so love. The MV7 is therefore a more affordable solution for those looking to upgrade their setup without breaking the bank. The fact that the mic will “grow” with you when you’re ready to buy a quality interface is just the icing on the cake!

The SM7B, on the other hand, has significantly more low-end, which is where that signature broadcast sound comes from. It also has very wide and flat response, which is incredibly difficult to achieve in a dynamic microphone.There’s a good reason the SM7B has been called an SM57 on steroids… The MV7 can be mounted to any standard mic stand or arm, and the included adapter lets you also mount it to smaller thread stands. The mount included in the podcast bundle is good enough for desk recordings, but you’ll want to invest in something better if you’re streaming or need to move the mic out of the way when talking. Performance

Notice: The FCC regulations provide that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Shure Incorporated could void your authority to operate this equipment. In truth both microphones cover similar ground, but they've been developed for slightly different markets.

Unfortunately, most consumer grade audio interfaces and mixers only provide about 40dB of gain, which means you'll have to invest in a Cloudlifter or preamp to provide you with enough additional boost. Individual adjustments via the ShurePlus motif desktop app possible (e.g., amplification, compression and EQ presets) Whether you’re a podcaster that likes to get up close and personal with the microphone, or a streamer that likes a bit more breathing space, you can select from ‘ near’ or ‘ far’ depending on your preference. Meanwhile, the MV7 has a distinct bump between 2k and 10k, which will enhance the clarity of vocals but may introduce sibilance issues (accentuating undesirable s and sh sounds). As previously mentioned, the SM7B is a very straightforward microphone, but to get the best results from it you'll need to master two vital settings - gain and mic placement. While the SM7B rightly has a reputation as an awesome dynamic mic it's also infamous for being a gain-hungry monster. Its low sensitivity rating of just -59dBV/Pa means it needs plenty of clean gain - Shure recommends at least +60dB - to bring it up to 0dB line level or your recordings will be quiet and potentially noisy.

What pickup pattern does the Shure MV7 have?

Works with the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop App, providing simple audio processing (save custom user presets; tweak audio tone using switchable EQ filters; automatically alter compression and gain with Auto-Level mode).

These credentials are enhanced further by the MV7’s complementary mobile/computer app, MOTIV, which provides real-time tone correction and tools to elevate your sound further. Whether you’re aiming for BBC-style depth and tonality or something with a touch more high-end sparkle, the app takes care of everything. In practice, this greatly reduces the extent of any post production which is required, meaning you get ‘pro grade’ results without needing to be an audio engineer. You can see why this would appeal.

Frequently asked questions about the Shure MV7

So even if you do decide to eventually upgrade your setup with an SM7B and proper interface, there’s no real downside to fear: You’ll already have a terrific second mic handy for podcast guests, streaming fun or expanded recording sessions. Making connections with XLR. Mic placement isn't nearly as critical either. Provided the MV7 is pointed accurately at the sound source, it performs best within one to six inches, but you can get away with three times that distance. This, and the fact that the MV7 is smaller, will appeal to YouTubers who don't want their faces obstructed by a large, close mic.