The Shure SM7B and Rode PodMic are both fantastic microphones to use for podcasting. The mics provide crisp vocals and have a professional design. The two mics have some impressive features, and it can be difficult to know which is the best choice for you. One mic is much more expensive, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the superior piece of kit.
For this article, we researched both microphones to give you two in-depth reviews. We concluded that our favourite microphone was the PodMic, and you’re about to find out why.
You can also check or comparison between SM7B vs AT4040, Audio Technica AT2035 vs Rode NT1,
Contents
Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic Comparison
Advantages:
- Created for podcasting
- Internal pop filter
- Durable
- Affordable
Disadvantages:
- Heavy
- No USB output
Advantages:
- One mic for everything
- High end
- Long hours of use
- Internal shock isolation
Diasdvantages:
- Need a XLR cable
- Pricey
Rode PodMic Review
The PodMic, released in 2019, is a favourite in the podcast community. As the name suggests, this microphone was created for podcasting. Rode is an Australian company known to create high-quality audio products. On amazon, this product has an average of 4.8/5 stars which shows its online popularity.
It contains an internal pop filter which reduces popping sounds that naturally occurs when someone is speaking. The microphone also has a handy gold dot, which shows you where the front of the mic is
It was designed to be used with RodeCastor Pro Podcast Studio, but it can also be paired with other audio interfaces. In terms of its features, it has a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and -57dB re 1 Volt/Pascal Sensitivity. The microphone arrives with 1 x 3-Pin XLR cable output connectors.
Related: Do I Need a Pop Filter for the Rode PodMic? and How Much Gain Does RØDE PodMic Need?
The PodMic has a durable design and is made with sturdy stainless steel and a mesh grille. One disadvantage of this is that it’s quite heavy, so if you will be using a boom mic you should make sure it can handle the weight of this.
Users have commented that the mic also has no USB output, so you will need a small amp which connects to your computer via USB, as well as an XLR cable which connects the amp to the PodMic.
The mic is very affordable compared to other microphones of this quality. This price is great for beginners on a budget. Other affordable microphones options are Zoom H2N and Rode NT USB.
Overall, this mic is reasonably priced, and it looks, sounds, and feels great.
Related: Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B.
Shure SM7B Review
The Shure SM7B is high end alternative, with lots of great features. It was launched back in 2004 and has had a great reputation ever since. It is ranked fourth in Amazon’s Best Selling Vocal Dynamic Microphones.
It is designed for long hours of professional use, so it is very sturdy and difficult to damage. Due to its wide range, the mic is ideal for picking up people’s speech on podcasts. It features a shielding capability which protects against humming caused by other audio equipment. The mic has a professional XLR cable connection which provides studio-quality audio.
It arrives with a standard windscreen, which protects the mic from popping or mechanical noises. It also comes with an A7WS windscreen which is perfect for recording audio close to the mic. The product also features Internal shock isolation and a captive stand nut design that makes for smooth mounting and dismounting.
As with the PodMic, you will need to purchase an amp and XLR cable separately from the microphone, or you will not be able to use it straight away.
The SM7B is a pricey investment. But you are paying for a mic that is renowned for its impressive ability to pick up clear audio and withstand many hours of use. You can also check other microphone options like Behringer XM8500 and Behringer XM1800S.
Related: What is Logan Paul’s Podcast Microphone? and Why Is My Shure SM7B So Quiet?
Our Verdict
While both mics are impressive contesters, our opinion is that the Rode PodMic is the better choice for podcast production. This is because of its amazing price point, sleek design, and ability to pick up speech clearly.
The Shure SM7B is an incredible mic, and I believe its many features would be better suited to a vocalist or a band.
Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic: Summary
To summarize, we compared the performance of two podcasting mics: the Shure SM7B and the Rode PodMic. We concluded that the Rode PodMic was the best of the two, because of its much lower price tag, sturdy design, and amazing audio results. It’s easy to use, which is perfect for those just starting a podcast.
However, if you have the money to spare, the Shure SM7B is a high-quality piece of kit with a stronger design and legendary audio pickup range. We just don’t feel it’s necessary to get such a pricey microphone for a podcast.
Related: Best Dynamic Microphones and Rode Podmic vs Shure MV7
