Shure SM7B: The Legendary Microphone That Defined Professional Audio



The Legend That Started It All
The Shure SM7B isn't just a microphone - it's a piece of audio history. Introduced in 1973, this legendary dynamic microphone has been the backbone of professional recording for over five decades. When you think of iconic recordings, the SM7B has been there, capturing some of the most memorable moments in music history.
Perhaps most famously, the Shure SM7B was used to record Michael Jackson's groundbreaking album "Thriller" - the best-selling album of all time. That warm, intimate vocal sound that defined an era? That was the SM7B at work. But it doesn't stop there. Countless artists, from radio DJs to podcasters, have relied on this microphone to deliver crystal-clear audio that stands the test of time.
Built to Last: Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
The moment you hold a Shure SM7B in your hands, you immediately understand why it's considered legendary. The microphone feels substantial - weighing in at 765 grams - with a robust aluminum and steel construction that screams quality. The sleek, dark gray finish gives it a professional aesthetic that looks at home in any studio setup.
What truly sets the SM7B apart is its attention to detail. The microphone features a built-in air suspension shock isolation system that virtually eliminates mechanical noise transmission. This means you get clean recordings without the rumble and handling noise that plagues lesser microphones. The electromagnetic shielding is equally impressive, providing protection against interference from computers, monitors, and other electronic devices.
Sound Quality That Speaks for Itself
The Shure SM7B delivers a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response from 50 Hz to 20 kHz. This isn't just technical jargon - it translates to recordings that sound natural, warm, and incredibly detailed. Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts, the SM7B captures every nuance with remarkable clarity.
The cardioid polar pattern is perfectly tuned to focus on the sound source while rejecting off-axis noise. This makes it ideal for vocal recordings, especially in less-than-perfect acoustic environments. The microphone's ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion makes it a favorite among broadcasters and musicians alike.
For a comprehensive demonstration of the SM7B's capabilities, check out this popular YouTube review that showcases its versatility across different applications:
Shure SM7B Complete Review and Sound Test
Technical Specifications
Microphone Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
Sensitivity: -59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV)
Impedance: 150 Ω
Connector: XLR
Weight: 765 g (1.69 lbs)
Dimensions: 190 x 64 x 96 mm (7.5 x 2.5 x 3.8 inches)
Shock Mount: Built-in air suspension shock isolation system
Electromagnetic Shielding: Yes
Finish: Dark gray metallic
Why the SM7B Remains Relevant
In an industry where technology changes rapidly, the Shure SM7B has maintained its relevance for over 50 years. Its combination of historical significance, superior build quality, and outstanding audio performance continues to make it the go-to choice for professionals worldwide.
Whether you're a podcaster looking for that perfect vocal sound, a musician recording vocals, or a broadcaster needing reliable performance, the SM7B delivers. It's not just a microphone - it's an investment in professional audio quality that will serve you for decades to come.
The Shure SM7B proves that sometimes, the best technology isn't the newest - it's the one that gets the job done perfectly, time and time again.