Do you want to record podcasts that sound like the best in the business? The Shure MV7 microphone will help you do exactly that! This microphone is incredibly popular because it’s easy to use and produces great results. We have it here at Premiere Podcast Studios, which means we can provide a comprehensive Shure MV7 review explaining its main features and why it’s an essential piece of equipment for recording podcasts. Let’s get started.
Shure MV7: Features, Pros and Cons
Input and Handling
The Shure MV7 is a dynamic mic with high sensitivity to direct input. Due to its intuitive handling, this microphone is suitable for both beginners and those more familiar with microphone technology. It’s particularly useful for making speech sound smoother and more professional, which is why it’s a favourite of top-tier professionals.
Podcasters will find that the Shure MV7 compares well to the Rode NT2-A, which is also an effective mic for producing crisp, clear audio. The Rode NT2-A is a more delicate and elaborate piece of kit, however, so it may not be the best choice if you’re recording outside the confines of a studio, or if you might feel slightly intimidated by a more complex microphone.
Indeed, compared to the Rode NT2-A, the Shure MV7 is more robust and has a smaller learning curve. While lightweight and easy to handle, it’s solid enough to withstand being dropped or subjected to environmental factors.
Output and Sound Mixing
The Shure MV7 has dual XLR/USB output. This makes it simple to mix sound using its dedicated app, MOTIV, which comes with your purchase. This app can be easily downloaded to your phone or other device and is designed to be user-friendly, even for complete novices. By contrast, the Rode NT2-A is used with the Rodecaster Pro, which is more comprehensive but can take some time and effort to master.
The Shure MV7 has 3 connection points: one for a micro-USB, one for an XLR cable and one for headphones, which allow you to hear how you sound while recording your podcast. Again, this makes it a common podcasting favourite because it particularly helps you improve your speech input.
In comparison, the Rode NT2-A is highly functional for recording speech, and also has additional features to make music and bass in particular sound superior. Still, if you are looking for a mic that solely for spoken podcasting – and especially if you are new to this type of technology – the Shure MV7 is likely to be a better choice for you.
Price Point
At £285, the Shure MV7 is slightly more affordable than the Rode NT2-A. If you’re just starting out and trying to keep costs to a minimum (while still producing a smooth-sounding podcast), the Shure MV7 may be the better choice.
Of course, you can always access both mics for a fraction of the purchase price. Simply book a podcast studio outfitted with all the equipment you need! At Premiere Podcast Studios, you’ll not only gain access to two Shure MV7 mics, but also a Rode NT2-A, a Rodecaster Pro, noise-cancelling headphones and much more. View our price packages or book a session at Premiere Podcast Studios today.
Shure MV7 Pros and Cons
Pros of the Shure MV7 mic:
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Intuitive and easy to use
- Perfect for direct-input speech
- 3 connection points for output
Cons of the Shure MV7 mic:
- Less suitable for multi-pattern audio (e.g. multiple podcast guests on the same microphone)
- Comes with production app but no specialist equipment, so sound mixing may not be as nuanced
Using the Shure MV7 to Record Your Podcast
Our Shure MV7 podcast microphone is perfect for vocal recording, especially for those who are new to recording and podcasting. After all, crafting amazing content content for your audience is challenging enough. You shouldn’t have to worry about getting bogged down in microphone technicalities!
The Shure MV7 allows you to focus primarily on your material, as it’s easy to use and doesn’t require any special skills to set up. And when it comes to producing smooth audio, there are different options for production in the MOTIV app that will work for even the most inexperienced podcasters.
One disadvantage of this microphone is that it’s less sensitive to audio input coming from different directions. If you are talking to guests or interviewing someone for your podcast, this may be an important consideration. In these cases, using a multi-pattern mic like the Rode NT2-A may be more appropriate – luckily, you can access it right alongside two Shure mV7 microphones here at Premiere Podcast Studios.
Shure MV7 Specifications
- DSP Modes (Presets): Near/Far, Dark/Natural/Bright
- Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional (Cardioid)
- Frequency Range: 50 Hz – 16,000 Hz
- Output Impedance: 314 Ω
- Adjustable Gain Range: 0 to +36 dB
- Sensitivity: -55 dBV/Pa [1] (1.78 mV), -47 dBFS/Pa [1] [2]
- Maximum SPL: 132 dB SPL [2]
- Headphone Output: 3.5 mm (1/8″)
- Polarity: Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
- Power Requirement: Powered through USB or Lightning connector
- Housing: All metal construction
- Mounting Type: 5/8-27 thread mount
- Net Weight: 0.55 kg (1.21 lbs)
Premiere Podcast Studios is a bespoke podcast recording studio located in Shoreditch, London. Find a recording slot today or contact us for more information.
