Shure SM7B (2001–)

A cardioid dynamic microphone introduced in 2001, designed for broadcast, studio, and vocal applications with a smooth frequency response and high noise rejection.

Overview

The Shure SM7B is a cardioid dynamic microphone manufactured by Shure, introduced in 2001 as the successor to the SM7A and the latest model in the SM7 series. It evolved from Shure’s legacy of broadcast microphones, beginning with the SM7 launched in 1973 for radio and television announcers. The SM7B is renowned for its warm, flat frequency response and ability to capture natural vocal tones with clarity while rejecting off-axis noise. It has become a staple in radio, television, studio recording, live sound reinforcement, and more recently, podcasting and streaming.

Specifications

Frequency response	50 to 20,000 Hz
Sensitivity	-59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV) at 1 kHz
Output impedance	150 Ω
Weight	765 grams
Polar pattern	Cardioid
Transducer type	Dynamic moving-coil
Requires preamplifier gain	At least +60 dB for optimal performance

Design

The SM7B features an internal air-suspension shock mount that minimizes handling noise and vibrations, with the isolator integrated directly into the microphone’s structure. It includes a humbucking coil that reduces electromagnetic interference by up to 11 dB at 60 Hz. The microphone has two switchable filters: a bass roll-off to control proximity effect and a mid-range presence boost for improved vocal intelligibility. It uses an enhanced Unidyne III cartridge with a thinner diaphragm and larger air volume for superior low-end reproduction compared to models like the SM57. Constructed with a rugged, all-metal body of dark gray enamel aluminum and steel, it includes a locking yoke mount with a captive stand nut compatible with standard 5/8-inch–27 threads, allowing up to 90 degrees of rotation. Standard accessories include a foam windscreen, a detachable close-talk windscreen for plosive reduction, and a switch cover plate. The SM7B variant includes a larger foam windscreen than earlier models.

Context

The SM7B is the flagship model in the SM7 series, following the SM7A released in 1999. It evolved from the original SM7, launched in 1973 and initially priced at $257. The microphone gained legendary status in the 1980s for its use on Michael Jackson’s *Thriller* album, engineered by Bruce Swedien. Its popularity expanded in the 2000s and 2010s among podcasters, streamers, and content creators. In 2020, Shure released the MV7, a hybrid USB/XLR microphone inspired by the SM7B’s design. In 2023, Shure introduced the SM7dB with a built-in preamp and released a signature edition SM7B to mark the product line’s 50th anniversary.

Market

The SM7B is built for long-term use, with an expected lifespan of 15–30+ years under maintenance. A unit listed for sale was noted to “test great with no issues,” showing only minor wear on the grill. This specific unit was manufactured in Mexico.