If you’re a podcaster, musician, or streamer, you’ve probably wondered why your Shure SM7B is so quiet. The answer is simple: it’s designed that way.
The Shure SM7B is a microphone designed for use in recording studios. It has a low-noise floor, so it picks up very little background noise. It is great for recording, but it can be frustrating if you try to use the microphone for other purposes.
If you’re trying to use the Shure SM7B for live streaming or podcasting, you’ll need to boost the clean gain to make the microphone louder. There are a few ways to do this, and we’ll go over them in this article.
Related: The Best Microphones For Recording in Podcasting
Contents
What Is The Shure SM7B?
The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone designed for professional voice applications such as broadcasting, podcasting, and voice-over. It features a frequency response tailored for vocals, an internal air-suspension shock mount to minimize handling noise, and a built-in pop filter to reduce plosives. The SM7B also includes a yoke mount on a microphone stand for easy mounting.
Reasons Why The Shure SM7B Microphone Output Is Quiet
The SM7B’s dynamic cartridge with smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response produces exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech. Image Source.
The Shure SM7B has a very low output level of -59.0 dB.
Between -5dB and -20dB is the best range for us to record. So, in theory, a preamp with a 40dB output volume could be a good choice. But it’s not relatively that easy. Many of you may be aware that if you have to turn your amp up on the way, you’re likely not using it properly.
Even if you turn the gain up, the microphone still will work. However, it would help if you didn’t do this because it can cause noise which will make one’s recordings as well as live broadcasts less clear.
Related: How To Set Up Shure SM7B
The low output of the Shure SM7B is a problem for many customers.
This microphone’s output is so low that it requires high amplification to catch the sound. Due to the SM7B’s low output, it cannot be connected to an audio interface. If you have sufficient gain, though, you should be able to hear everything in your recordings.
Improper microphone setup is a typical reason for the SM7B’s low volume.
If your microphone setup is adequate, you may use it with any preamp. You should use a mic activator if you don’t have a preamp. It will guarantee that your recordings sound their best.
And if your preamp is unbalanced, you may boost gain without introducing noise to the mix. When used properly, the SM7B is a high-quality dynamic microphone that can help you record your music.
This low output microphone is a significant issue if you don’t utilize an audio interface.
You must own an audio interface to connect the SM7B to an audio interface. You must connect the microphone to the computer through USB to set up the audio input.
It may be difficult to locate a microphone capable of capturing the desired sound if you’re searching for one. Most Shure SM7B microphones are dynamic, requiring high-quality inputs and outputs. Therefore, you should seek a microphone with high-quality audio yet modest loudness. In addition, the SM7B is prone to pops, which is problematic when recording voices.
The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone.
Therefore it must be used near the sound source while recording voices. When recording, it is crucial to ensure that the microphone is not too distant from the sound source; otherwise, the noise will be produced. It is also essential to examine the direction in which the microphone is used. For instance, the microphone should aim upward, not below, to prevent undesired echoes.
The Shure SM7B is one of the market’s most affordable and widely used popular dynamic microphones. Additionally, it is infamous for its low volume. The SM7B, unlike many dynamic microphones, needs a significant level of amplification to record sounds. It functions optimally when near the sound source. If the distance is too great, you may want to try a different microphone.
Related: Which is Better: SM7B vs AT4040?
How Quiet Can The Shure SM7B Get?
The low volume of the Shure SM7B proves its limited output. When connected directly to an audio interface, the gain is insufficient. Due to the passive dynamic nature of the microphone, it omits almost no audible sound.
Choose a preamp or microphone activator with a clean sound that complements the mic’s silky tones and thickening effects and provides good gain. When coupled with a Cloudlifter, the SM7B excels as an in-line microphone preamp.
Related: Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B
Why The Shure SM7B is an Ideal Podcasting Microphone
Here are some of the reasons why Shure SM7B is a superb mic and why we recommend this:
Top quality
The Shure SM7B is the industry standard because of its extended dynamic range, balanced and resonant frequency, and warm audio. It is the only microphone in its class to provide these features.
Versatile
The Shure SM7B is a versatile microphone for podcasting, voice-overs, and even music recording.
Durable
The Shure SM7B is built to last and withstand regular rigors.
Phenomenal Capabilities
Because it has a lot of different options, it is an exceptional microphone for singing, as well as for podcasts, voice-overs, and radio shows.
Performance
It’s silent, blocks electromagnetic disturbances efficiently, and features a suspension that absorbs shocks and reduces mechanical noise.
Design
It is made of high-quality, premium materials and has a simple, easy-to-find shape. It makes it strong and protects even the fragile parts.
Affordable
Despite its high quality, the Shure SM7B is quite reasonable, especially compared to other top-of-the-line podcasting microphones. This makes it an excellent choice for people on a limited budget.
Related: Shure SM7B vs Rode PodMic: Which is a Better Podcasting Mic?
Does Your Shure SM7B Exhibit a Crackling or Popping Noise?
Several issues can cause this, but the problem is with your audio interface or preamp. If you use an audio interface with a built-in preamp, ensure the preamp is turned on. If the preamp is turned off, the input sensitivity of the SM7B will be too low, and you will hear crackling and popping.
If you use a standalone preamp, ensure the input sensitivity is set correctly. You should set the input sensitivity knob on the back of the SM7B to “line.”
Related: Shure SM7B vs Audio Technica AT2035 Comparison Guide
FAQs
Does the SM7B record noise in the background?
The Shure SM7B is great for recording because it can block out noises that aren’t coming from the direction of the mic. Because of this, it is an excellent microphone for recording voices, whether sung or spoken.
Related: Shure SM7 vs SM7B
Should I get a Cloudlifter for my Shure SM7B?
A Cloudlifter is not necessary for the Shure SM7B, but it can help to improve the sound audio quality. It can be a good investment if you plan on using the mic for professional recordings. Check out our other post, “Do You Need A Cloudlifter For Shure SM7B?”, for the detailed guide.
Final Thoughts
The Shure SM7B is an excellent microphone that can be used for various applications. It doesn’t require phantom power and can block background noise, making it ideal for recording voices. If you are looking for a quality mic for professional recordings, the Shure SM7B is a great option.
Related: Do I Own a Fake Shure SM7B?
