In podcasting, achieving that professional, studio-quality sound can feel like chasing the brass ring on a merry-go-round. It's a coveted prize, a symbol of success, and sometimes just feels perpetually out of reach. But fear not, aspiring podcast jockeys, for there's a microphone out there that can be your golden ticket: the Shure SM7B.
The SM7B isn't just a microphone; it's a badge of honor. It's the industry standard for a reason. A favorite of podcasters like Dan Carlin and Guy Raz (How I Built This), this legendary mic boasts a smooth, velvety sound that caresses your voice, removing unwanted background noise and bringing your words to life in rich, broadcast quality.
Why the Hype for this Podcasting Mic?
So what makes the SM7B the brass ring of podcasting microphones? Here's a breakdown:
- Broadcast-Level Audio: The SM7B is a dynamic microphone with exceptional audio quality. It captures your voice with remarkable clarity and presence, making your podcast sound polished and professional.
- Background Noise Ninja: Does your dog bark mid-recording? Traffic noise seep in from the window? The SM7B's tight cardioid pickup pattern minimizes unwanted background noise, ensuring your voice stays the star of the show.
- Versatility for All Voices: The SM7B's smooth frequency response flatters a wide range of voices, making it perfect for solo podcasts, interviews, or even co-hosted shows with different vocal tones.
- Built to Last: Shure is renowned for its quality craftsmanship, and the SM7B is no exception. This microphone is a workhorse, built to endure the wear and tear of regular use.
But Wait, There's More!
Now, the SM7B, like that elusive brass ring, requires a little extra effort to grasp. Here are some things to consider:
- You'll Need More Than Just the Mic: The SM7B is a high-impedance microphone, requiring an audio interface with a preamplifier to boost the signal for your computer. Factor in the cost of an XLR cable to connect the mic to the interface.
- Taming the Beast: The SM7B is a powerful microphone, and sometimes that power requires a bit of taming. A Cloudlifter or inline booster can help provide the extra gain some users find necessary, while a pop filter helps eliminate plosives (those unwanted "p" and "b" pops).
The Brass Ring Effect
So, is the Shure SM7B worth the investment? Absolutely! Upgrading your microphone to the SM7B is like grabbing that brass ring – it elevates your podcast to a whole new level. Imagine the look on your listeners' faces when they hear your voice booming with professional clarity. The SM7B isn't just a microphone; it's a statement piece for your podcast studio, a mark of dedication, and a symbol that you're serious about delivering high-quality content.
Is the SM7B the only way to achieve great podcast audio? Of course not! But for those seeking the gold standard, the coveted prize, the brass ring of podcasting microphones, the Shure SM7B is undeniably the champion. Are you ready to take your podcast to the next level? Grab hold of your Shure SM7B and record your podcast like a pro!
Stuck on How to Start a Podcast?
At ModPod, we excel at helping businesses create podcasts that showcase their expertise. We do this by employing storytelling and intentional dialogue to convey complex ideas. In addition, we help clients with strategy, concept development, Series and Episode Production, and even localization of podcasts into over 80 languages. Schedule a consult today to learn how we can help your business start a podcast Series.
