Why Is the Shure SM7B So Popular?

Sometimes called “an SM57 on steroids,” the Shure SM7B is a highly regarded dynamic microphone for vocals, having captured endless melodies and soliloquies by musicians, broadcasters, podcasters, livestreamers and content creators over the course of decades. Likewise, a praised instrument microphone, the SM7B touts sonic versatility and rugged reliability among its many admirable features. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the SM7B, examine its place in famous recordings, demystify pieces of its construction and compare it to similar offerings in the Shure lineup.

Pictured: Shure SM7dB Logo

Table of Contents

The History of the Shure SM7B
   A Quick Timeline of the Shure SM7 Microphone Family's Development
Famous Uses of the Shure SM7B
   Famous Recordings That Use the Shure SM7B
   Famous Podcasts That Use the Shure SM7B
Constructing the Shure SM7B
   Key Features and Specifications of the Shure SM7B
       Unidyne III Cartridge Variant
       Dual-band EQ
       Internal Air Suspension Shockmount
       Built-in Pop Filter
       Rugged Durability
Common Uses of the Shure SM7B
   Recording Vocals
   High-SPL Sound Sources
   Podcasting and Broadcasting
   Instrument and Amplifier Miking
Comparing the SM7B to Other Shure Microphones
   Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
   Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
   Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone
   Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone
   Shure MV7 USB and XLR Dynamic Microphone
   Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
   Shure MV7i Smart Mic & Interface
Why the Shure SM7B Remains Undefeated
People Also Ask ...

The History of the Shure SM7B

There are several key milestones in the SM7B dynamic microphone’s development, beginning with Shure’s introduction of the Unidyne III cartridge in 1960—the eventual basis for the brand’s ever-popular Studio Microphone (SM) family.

The Shure Model 545 dynamic microphone was their first to utilize the Unidyne III element. It transformed Shure’s previously side-address microphones (like the “Elvis mic” Model 55) into end-address devices, which tightened the cardioid pickup pattern for more focused sound with greater off-axis rejection. This enhancement meant live sound engineers could begin to crank up the gain higher than before without feedback—as a result, concerts could be louder and take place in larger venues. What’s more, the Unidyne III engine introduced an internal pneumatic shockmount and reduced handling noise to all-time lows for the period.

The Unidyne III cartridge was an important innovation for the brand and variations of it found their way into subsequent Shure microphones.

Pictured: Shure SM7B Dynamic Microphone

In 1963, Shure engineer Bob Carr presented a new lineup of microphones specially purposed for television, film and radio studios. Part of the SM7’s lineage, the SM5 broadcast microphone came out the following year in 1964: a massive 10"-long dynamic boom mic weighing a notably heavy two pounds. The SM5 also contained new studio-centric features, such as an all-black, nonreflective finish to avoid being picked up by cameras; a three-pin XLR connector and dual-impedance input; and the elimination of an on/off switch, so boom ops wouldn’t accidentally mute the microphone during a recording or broadcast.

With the Studio Microphone line established, Shure followed up with the release of the seminal SM57 dynamic instrument microphone in 1965—the direct predecessor to the SM7. The SM57 made use of the Unidyne III element and immediately found a place on stages all around the world, touted for its excellent sound reproduction, near-indestructible ruggedness and outstanding gain-before-feedback handling. It remains an industry standard for live sound reinforcement as well as studio recording.

At the time, Shure noticed an opportunity to develop a new microphone based on the already wildly successful SM57. According to Shure Product Manager John Born, “A group of Shure acoustical engineers were given the SM57 cartridge element (Unidyne III) and asked, without restrictions on size or cost, to make it better. And they went nuts.”

Born continues, “The SM7 was designed as an extended, full-range microphone and intended to be universal in its applications. It has a flatter and wider response than its SM57 and SM58 siblings, but its frequency-shaping switches in the back (selectable low cut and presence peak filtering) allow it to more than adequately fulfill (and enhance) applications where the SM57 or SM58 excel.”

Pictured: Shure SM7B Unidyne III Cartridge

The SM7 debuted in 1973, driven by the Unidyne III engine but with a thinner, more flexible diaphragm for enhanced low-end response. Shure Microphone Development Engineer Gerry Plice is credited for designing the SM7’s instantly recognizable exterior enclosure—a job typically handled by a design engineer but most certainly well executed by Plice.

There have since been three revisions of the iconic SM7: the SM7A, SM7B and SM7dB. The SM7A was released in 1999 with an improvement to the mic’s electromagnetic interference rejection, in addition to a refined yoke mount design. In 2001, Shure released the SM7B, which included a larger foam windscreen. The SM7dB debuted in 2023 as the first major revision to the model, introducing its own built-in preamp to quench the mic’s thirst for gain.

According to Shure, the series’ Unidyne III-type element has remained unchanged since 1973, suggesting no major sonic differences between the SM7, SM7A, SM7B and SM7dB.

A Quick Timeline of the Shure SM7 Microphone Family's Development

• 1960: Shure releases the Unidyne III Model 545, setting the stage for later innovations.
• 1964: Shure introduces the SM5 boom microphone for TV and film studios.
• 1965: Shure debuts the iconic SM57 dynamic instrument microphone, where it initially finds a home in live sound reinforcement.
• 1966: Shure releases the SM58 as a stage-ready handheld vocal mic.
• 1973: The Shure SM7 officially debuts as a universally applicable “SM57 on steroids”—users discover its low-end response is fabulous for broadcast and voice overs.
• 1999: Shure releases the SM7A with improved electromagnetic interference rejection.
• 2001: Shure introduces the SM7B, featuring a bigger, improved windscreen.
• 2023: Shure comes out with the SM7dB, including its own onboard preamplifier.

Famous Uses of the Shure SM7B

Upon release, the Shure SM7 was typecast as a radio and voice over microphone, and it took some time for it to catch on for musical applications. Today, the SM7B is a revered vocal and instrument mic, and it continues to be a go-to choice for livestreaming and podcasting. The following are some of the most well-known instances of an SM7 being used in the recording studio.

Famous Recordings That Use the Shure SM7B

• Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1982): Legendary engineer Bruce Swedien famously used an SM7, among other mics, to capture Jackson’s vocals across the album. It was an early instance of the “humble” SM7 being used on a high-profile project.

• Iron Maiden’s The Number of the Beast (1982): Producer and engineer Martin Birch recorded Bruce Dickinson’s vocals with an SM7, namely because of its ability to handle the power and dynamic range of hard rock and metal vocalists.

• The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Blood Sugar Sex Magik (1991): Engineer Brendan O’Brien recorded a majority of Anthony Kiedis’ vocals with an SM7.

• Sheryl Crow’s The Globe Sessions (1998): Engineers Trina Shoemaker and S. Husky Höskulds miked Crow with an SM7 throughout the album.

• Metallica’s St. Anger (2003): Producer and engineer Bob Rock captured James Hetfield’s vocals using an SM7.

• Childish Gambino’s Camp (2011): Donald Glover’s debut album under his musical alter ego Childish Gambino features SM7-recorded vocals throughout.

Famous Podcasts That Use the Shure SM7B

• WTF With Marc Maron: Since September 2009, comedian/actor Marc Maron has hosted a weekly podcast from the “garage,” where he chats with fellow comedians and actors, writers, directors, musicians and creatives of all backgrounds, recorded using the SM7B.
• The Joe Rogan Experience: Comedian, actor and UFC commentator Joe Rogan trusts the SM7B to capture his longform conversations with comics, actors, MMA fighters, authors and more.
• Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend: Longtime Late Night host Conan O’Brien’s weekly podcast—alongside cohosts Sona Movsesian and Matt Gourley—features entertainment industry guests engaging in playful conversation on SM7B microphones.
• My Favorite Murder: Hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark rely on the SM7B to record their tales of unnerving cold cases, notorious serial killers and important criminal events in history during their gritty—and sometimes goofy—true crime podcast.
• 99% Invisible: Born of a four-minute radio spot on KALW in San Francisco, Roman Mars’ enormously popular podcast on the careful consideration behind everyday design most take for granted is recorded on the SM7B.

Constructing the Shure SM7B

Like many musical tools, the Shure SM7B is often regarded as more than the sum of its parts, but it’s definitely worth analyzing its makeup to better understand why it sounds and performs so well.

Pictured: Shure SM7B Model Logo

Key Features and Specifications of the Shure SM7B

Unidyne III Cartridge Variant

The same element behind the popular SM57 and SM58, the SM7B makes use of Shure’s Unidyne III cartridge—with a few key alterations. The SM7B optimizes its low-end response via a thinner, more flexible diaphragm, and the microphone’s physical enclosure allows greater airflow behind the cartridge to further enhance its silky-smooth sonic signature.

The SM7B’s voice coil also uses smaller wire than what’s found inside a 57 or 58 but with three times as many turns—ultimately, for lower output that contributes to its distinctively “radio DJ” sound.

Dual-band EQ

For additional tonal versatility, the Shure SM7B includes a bass roll-off switch as well as a peak presence boost. Engaging the high-pass filter helps eliminate unwanted background rumble and hum, such as that picked up from air conditioning or outside traffic. The presence boost shores up midrange frequencies for enhanced vocal clarity.

Pictured: Shure SM7B Dual-Band EQ Controls

Internal Air Suspension Shockmount

Shure’s internal air suspension shock isolation minimizes handling and mechanical noise to ensure crystal-clear capture of a given sound source. This is part of what makes the SM7B so great for podcasting and streaming, because entertainers can noiselessly adjust the microphone as needed.

Built-in Pop Filter

The Shure SM7B’s integrated A7WS windscreen helps fight breathiness and plosives for broadcast, ADR, voice over and sung vocals, all in the name of cleaner, clearer sound. Occasionally, engineers will remove the foam filter to record instruments—it’s also replaceable if it’s gotten grimy from years of use.

Rugged Durability

It’s a Shure—of course it’s built for the long haul. Like it’s virtually indestructible siblings, the SM7B inherits legendary Shure toughness and longevity to become a studio staple for producers, engineers, musicians, streamers and content creators.

Common Uses of the Shure SM7B

Considering the fact it was conceived as a bigger, better SM57, the Shure SM7B is a certified workhorse. Best known as a vocal mic, one thing’s for sure—it can handle just about anything you can throw at it.

Pictured: Shure SM7B and SM7dB Microphone Capsules

Recording Vocals

With its flat, wide-range frequency response, integrated pop filter and optional midrange presence boost, the SM7B has all the fixings of a stellar dynamic vocal microphone. Its uniform cardioid polar pattern and mild-mannered tonality make it the perfect all-around mic for capturing vocals in any genre, as evidenced by its track record of hit recordings in pop, rock, metal, hip-hop and more.

For the same reasons, it’s widely used on ADR, audio book and voice over recordings.  

High-SPL Sound Sources

As a robust moving-coil microphone, the SM7B can handle extremely loud sound sources without distortion—to the tune of up to 180dB. You’ll routinely see it on kick and snare, for instance, and engineers will often record metal singers and rappers on an SM7B to ensure their powerful, dynamic performances are cleanly captured. The SM7B is classified as a nonsensitive microphone, so it actually excels on louder sources and demands significant preamp gain on quieter ones.

Podcasting and Broadcasting

The Shure SM7B was popularized as a broadcast microphone for its ability to imbue voices with a polished richness. The built-in windscreen and internal shockmount further lend themselves to reliable sound reproduction out of the box—you don’t have to be an audio wizard to make an SM7B sound good. For podcasters, broadcasters and streamers, the Shure SM7B’s plug-and-play functionality make it a popular choice.

The SM7B’s USB variants—including the MV7, MV7+ and MV7i—are even easier for first-time and veteran creators alike to jump straight into the recording game.

Instrument and Amplifier Miking

Whether it’s a guitar or bass amp, trumpet or conga, the SM7B performs with the same consistency that’s made it a studio workhorse for decades. There really isn’t anything it can’t record, so long as you’re willing to try it. Quieter sound sources without a high-power preamp may occasionally prove challenging, but the SM7B performs incredibly well on most instruments, acoustic and electric alike.

Comparing the SM7B to Other Shure Microphones

Shure currently produces several vocal-centric microphones inspired by the SM7B design, some containing a host of advanced features to meet the evolving needs of content creators and musicians. We’ll take a peek at those entries now to see how they all compare.

Pictured: Shure SM7dB Dynamic Microphone

Microphone	Capsule	Price	Polar Pattern	Weight	Sensitivity	Frequency Range	Features
Shure SM7B	Dynamic	$399	Cardioid	1.87 lb.	1.1mV/Pa (–59dBV)	50Hz–20kHz	Low-cut filter, presence boost
Shure SM57	Dynamic	$99	Cardioid	.63 lb.	1.6mV/Pa (–56dBV)	40Hz–15kHz	None
Shure SM7dB	Dynamic	$499	Cardioid	1.87 lb.	28.2mV/Pa (–31dBV) with max preamp gain	50Hz–20kHz	+28dB built-in active preamp, low-cut filter, presence boost
Shure MV7+	Dynamic	$279	Cardioid	1.26 lb.	1.78mV/Pa (–55dBV)	50Hz–16kHz	Onboard DSP effects, USB-C connectivity, headphone output, customizable LED touch panel
Shure MV7	Dynamic	$249	Cardioid	1.21 lb.	1.78mV/Pa (–55dBV)	50Hz–16kHz	Onboard DSP effects, USB connectivity, headphone output, touch panel
Shure MV7X	Dynamic	$179	Cardioid	1.21 lb.	1.78mV/Pa (–55dBV)	50Hz–16kHz	None
Shure MV7i	Dynamic	$349	Cardioid	1.25 lb.	22mV/Pa (–33dBV)	50Hz–16kHz	Onboard DSP effects, USB-C connectivity, built-in audio interface with combo jack, headphone output, customizable LED touch panel

Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

Why It’s Cool: Our star of the show reliably captures smooth, warm vocal and instrument recordings with outstanding precision and clarity.  

Things to Consider:

• Passive dual-band EQ to hone your sound
• Heavily shielded against electromagnetic interference
• Requires a powerful preamp with at least 60dB of gain (or an in-line boost, such as the Cloudlifter CL-1, to get there)

Shop Now: Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Shure SM7B and its balanced, full-range frequency response have made it the not-so-secret weapon discerning audio engineers continue to rely on. Whether it’s studio vocal and instrument recordings, podcasting, radio broadcast, livestreaming or on-location audio capture, the SM7B’s rugged build quality and reliable sonic performance are why it’s still a go-to dynamic microphone to this day.

A favorite among Guitar Center customers, the SM7B scores 4.9/5 stars on 50+ reviews.

Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

Why It’s Cool: One of the most popular, omnipresent dynamic microphones ever made, the Shure SM57 has been found in humble home studios, concert halls, prestigious recording facilities and even on presidential podiums.

Things to Consider:

• Cardioid polar pattern isolates sound sources for precise close miking
• Pneumatic shockmount system minimizes handling noise
• Renowned for its durability, even after years and years of heavy use

Shop Now: Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

The Shure SM57 formed the foundation on which the SM7B was eventually built. Employed primarily as an instrument microphone, the SM57 is widely prevalent on snare drum and guitar amps, though it’s also great for percussion, acoustic guitar, piano, saxophone and vocals. Sonically, compared to the SM7B, the SM57 has a pronounced presence boost to give sound sources an airier edge.

The SM57 is a best-selling, top-reviewed dynamic mic at Guitar Center, averaging 4.9/5 stars on 260+ reviews. Shure also offers the equally popular and recognizable SM58—a dynamic handheld microphone with performance like the 57’s and an integrated metal pop filter.

Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Why It’s Cool: The Shure SM7B’s known to be gain hungry, which the SM7dB remedies with a built-in active preamplifier.

Things to Consider:

• Bypass, +18 and +28dB gain boost
• +48V phantom power required
• Transparent onboard gain won’t color the sound

Shop Now: Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone with Active Preamp

For users craving legendary SM7B sound but doubting their preamp’s ability to sufficiently drive it, the Shure SM7dB solves the potential problem with a built-in preamp. Sonically and functionally identical to the SM7B, you’ll still get the characteristically rich, flattering response as the OG—just with onboard gain to capture quieter sources more easily.

Guitar Center customers appreciate the Shure SM7dB’s simple solution to making the microphone more sensitive, rating it 4.7/5 stars on 40+ reviews.

Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone

Why It’s Cool: The Shure MV7+ offers podcasters and streamers an easy solution to pro-grade sound through included MOTIV software for desktop and mobile.

Things to Consider:

• MOTIV effects include automatic gain, denoising, plosive reduction, EQ, compression and reverb
• Digital and analog connectivity (USB-C and XLR)
• Also, directly compatible with the PlayStation 5

Shop Now: Shure MV7+ Podcast Microphone

The powerful flexibility of the Shure MV7+ USB microphone makes it an outstanding choice for content creators who want to improve their audio intuitively. Connect to your computer or mobile device via USB-C and open the MOTIV app to access advanced settings and effects to shape your sound, as well as record directly. Compared to the SM7B, the MV7+’s unaltered frequency response features a slight presence boost in the upper midrange and highs before dropping off at 16kHz, and MOTIV software unlocks a ton more tonal possibilities without the need for a DAW.

Shure MV7 USB and XLR Dynamic Microphone

Why It’s Cool: The Shure MV7 is the predecessor to the MV7+, utilizing a micro USB digital output.

Things to Consider:

• Included MOTIV app for recording and effects
• Digital and analog connectivity (micro USB and XLR)
• LED touch panel is not customizable

Shop Now: Shure MV7 USB and XLR Dynamic Microphone

If you’re seeking a slightly more affordable version of the MV7+, you might opt for the previous-generation Shure MV7 USB microphone. You’ll find most features and software functionality remain the same, though the MV7 utilizes a different-format USB output than its successor.

Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone

Why It’s Cool: If you’re on a budget but only a Shure will do, the MV7X brings legendary, SM7B-style sound quality to users in a streamlined package.

Things to Consider:

• Simple analog XLR output connects to interfaces and mixers
• Shure’s dynamic cartridge and off-axis rejection focuses sound on the source
• Designed as an affordable alternative to the SM7B

Shop Now: Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone

The Shure MV7X podcast and vocal microphone boasts similar sonics as its big brother and does it at less than half the price. This no-nonsense dynamic mic is similarly easy to use, and it ditches the passive dual-band EQ to keep cost low. Frequency-wise, the MV7X’s upper midrange is a little more hyped than the SM7B’s, helping vocals cut through with even greater clarity. Admiring its value, Mike from Minneapolis, MN, shared in a Guitar Center review, “The quality for the price is right on. Wouldn't expect anything more or less.”

Shure MV7i Smart Mic & Interface

Why It’s Cool: The Shure MV7i incorporates a built-in, two-channel audio interface and MOTIV Mix software for comprehensive, single-device control over sound for podcasting and streaming.  

Things to Consider:

• Microphone connects to a computer or mobile device over USB-C
• Features a combo XLR/1/4" input for an external mic or instrument
• MV7i provides +60dB of gain and +48V phantom power to external connections

Shop Now: Shure MV7i Smart Mic and Interface

Creators hoping to hit the ground running can do it using the first-of-its-kind Shure MV7i smart microphone with an onboard audio interface. It shares the same DSP-driven effects suite and direct recording capabilities as the MV7+—accessed through MOTIV software—and ups the ante with a dedicated input for an additional microphone or an instrument. Obvious differentiating features aside, the MV7i’s frequency response is similar to the SM7B’s, with a gentle midrange to high-end lift for extra brightness and presence.

Why the Shure SM7B Remains Undefeated

Shure’s groundbreaking development of the Unidyne III helped usher in an era of rugged, end-address dynamic microphones ideal for close miking sources on stage and in the studio. The pivotal SM57 became a revolutionarily versatile microphone, and Shure engineers took that platform to the max with the SM7B.

With its uncanny ability to focus a voice, reject background noise and lend a smooth, rich tone to anybody, there’s no wonder the SM7B’s ubiquity in podcasting, broadcasting and vocal recording continues. Its proclivity to then capture snare drum, guitar amps, bass cabinets and more with the same consistency and reliability explains why it’s still a versatile choice for home recordists and professional studios.

Want to add an SM7B or one of its family members to your collection? Stop by your local Guitar Center to handle these mics in person or hop on a chat or phone call with a Gear Adviser to pinpoint the right version for your studio.

Be sure to check out How to Choose the Best Microphone in 2025 to get a download of the most popular microphones available on the market today.

People Also Ask ...

Did Michael Jackson use an SM7 or SM7B?

Bruce Swedien used an SM7 to record Michael Jackson’s Thriller vocals, as the SM7B was almost two decades away at the time. Shure has stated there’s nearly zero sonic variation between the SM7, SM7A and SM7B, though it’s ultimately up to whoever’s using them to make the final call.

Do I need a preamp for the SM7B?

The Shure SM7B benefits from around 60dB of preamp gain to hit its sweet spot. Most modern audio interfaces can supply a substantial amount of clean gain to drive it, but if you’re working with a particularly quiet source, an additional in-line preamp may be required. The Cloudlifter CL-1 is a popular choice, as is the sE Electronics Dynamite. Or, you can always opt for the Shure SM7dB with the preamp already built in.

Pictured: Shure SM7dB Preamp Controls

Does an SM7B need a pop filter?

The SM7B features an integrated RK345 detachable windscreen, in addition to an A7WS foam filter in the box. So, you don’t necessarily need an extra. In specific scenarios, it might be helpful to use a stand-mounted pop filter when you’re working with a vocalist who’s figuring out their microphone technique. You can prevent them from “swallowing” the capsule by keeping them at a fixed distance with an external pop filter.