Shure MV7 Review: Is This The Best USB Podcast Microphone in 2021?

The Shure MV7 USB microphone could be a game changer for podcasters

PodRecs
5 min readNov 19, 2020

The Shure MV7 is a podcaster’s dream.

It’s the younger sibling of the Shure SM7B, the gold standard in podcast microphones, used by the likes of Joe Rogan, Russell Brand, Rich Roll and more.

However, the major downsides of the SM7B are that it’s an XLR microphone and it costs about $400.

That has meant that many podcasters, gamers, and YouTubers looking for a simple plug-and-play USB microphone have bypassed the SM7B.

It’s just too expensive.

The new Shure MV7 aims to capture that part of the market — the podcasters who want Shure’s hallmark high-quality audio, the simplicity of a USB output, and a more affordable price.

But there’s more… the defining feature of the Shure MV7 is that it has both USB and XLR outputs, allowing you to record in ultra high-quality, and USB quality.

I think the Shure MV7 could be a game changer for podcasters. Many of the internet’s top microphone reviewers are already gushing over its sound quality.

It looks hot. It’s easy to use. It sounds great (probably better than any other USB mic on the market today). And it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.

The Shure MV7 is the podcast-friendly alternative to the high-end SM7B.

👉 You can buy the Shure MV7 on Amazon now

Before I go into all the reasons why you should buy this microphone, let’s take a look at the features.

Shure MV7 features: High-end quality in a low-cost package

Inspired by the legendary SM7B, the MV7 is a dynamic microphone with both USB and XLR outputs for use with computers and audio interfaces alike.

Voice Isolation Technology

The MV7’s unique pick-up pattern (it has a single cardioid pick-up pattern) means that it’s excellent at capturing your voice and minimising background or room noise.

Integration With ShurePlus™ MOTIV Apps

You can use Shure’s MOTIV app to configure and set up the MV7. Choose from Auto-Level mode (just set it and forget it for great-sounding audio) or Manual Mode if you want to play around with the features.

Customizable Sound Signature

You can customise the MV7 for your voice, choosing from either ‘dark’, ‘natural’ or ‘bright’ within the MOTIV app. No matter how your voice sounds normally, you can achieve that “broadcast” sound the pros are known for.

Optimized Mic Position Presets

You know how Joe Rogan always tells his guests to “pull the mic a little closer there, fella”? You don’t have to worry about that with the MV7. Whether you’re a podcaster that likes to get up close and personal with the microphone, or a streamer that likes a bit more breathing space, you can select from ‘near’ or ‘far’ depending on your preference.

Built-in Headphone Monitoring

Like many USB microphones, you can ensure that your audio sounds great at all times with direct headphone monitoring.

👉 Get the Shure MV7 now

Who should get the Shure MV7?

The MV7 is the perfect companion for podcasters. I think it’s *probably* the best dynamic USB microphone available right now.

It’s the perfect intermediate option between something like a Blue Yeti and the SM7B.

The MV7 will also appeal to gamers and YouTube creators for its ease of use and remarkable sound quality.

If you’ve had your eyes set on a SM7B for your podcast but haven’t quite been ready to fork out $400, the MV7 is the answer to your prayers.

What are people saying about the Shure MV7?

Podcastage

“I think it sounds significantly better than other USB dynamic microphones that are currently on the market.”

Soundguys

“The Shure MV7 hybrid microphone is a stellar performer, and can handle nearly any situation thrown at it.”

It’s also worth noting that Soundguys rated the MV7 8.8 overall and 9.6 for sound quality.

Ray Ortega

“It’s not only a great-sounding microphone with a lot of options — it looks good.”

PC Mag

“Podcasters and musicians looking for an easy to use, clarity-first vocal mic will find a lot to like in the MV7.”

A USB microphone for serious podcasters

USB microphones are often seen as “entry level” options for beginner podcasters.

The “serious” podcasters always have XLR mics like the SM7B or SM47.

However, the arrival of the Shure MV7 hybrid microphone, so-called “serious” podcasters (and musicians, live streamers and vloggers) can have the best of both worlds.

With the Shure MV7 you get:

  • Incredible sound quality 🔥
  • USB and XLR inputs/outputs 🔥
  • Beautiful design 🔥
  • Shure’s world-leading technology 🔥
  • Affordable price-tag 🔥

Yes, it’s more expensive than most other USB microphones.

But if you’re wanting a microphone that you want need to replace or upgrade in a year or two, the Shure MV7 is a great choice.

I think it sets a new standard for USB podcast microphones.

👉 Get the Shure MV7 here

I’ve included Amazon affiliate links for the Shure MV7 in this article to help me buy the occasional takeaway pizza, or some other indulgence. I’ll get a small cut if you use my link (please do! 🍕 🤤).

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PodRecs
PodRecs

Written by PodRecs

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