The Shure MV7 Podcasting Microphone - XLR/USB
MV7 XLR/USB COMBO MIC
ADJUSTABLE TABLETOP MIC STAND
BOOM ARM FOR MICROPHONE
We recently purchased the Shure MV7 Dynamic XLR/USB combo microphone, and we think IT'S THE BEST. Here are four reasons we suggest this microphone for your podcast.
Image courtesy of PodcastTables.shop1) USB & XLR options
Most microphones are either USB or XLR, but the Shure MV7 is BOTH. This is important because it makes it versatile for application. I use the MV7 at my desk on a boom arm connected to my Macbook Pro via USB, but then I run it down to my studio and plug it in via XLR into my Zoom L12 mixer.
If you're just starting your podcast and are looking for a mic, the MV7 is a great option because it offers you a way to plug & play right out of the box if you're recording to your laptop. This will save you money not having to buy a mixer and a microphone, but just the microphone.
The USB option means the MV7 contains a pre-amp inside the microphone housing and doesn't require additional equipment to run it into the computer.
If you decide later on that you want to use a digital recorder like the Zoom H4n or Zoom H6, then your MV7 is still compatible via XLR. So you're not having to buy another microphone. This happens when people change their show format or decide to add additional guests or hosts. You'll save money in the long run.
2) Audio quality
Shure microphones are already known for high-quality vocal recording, with the SM58 being a workhorse vocal mic for live situations and the SM7b as the "holy grail" of broadcast mics. (Some would argue it's the RE20). But, Shure really stepped up their game creating a mic geared toward podcasters. A little late in the game, but better late than never.
I bought the Rode Podmic because it was made for podcasters, but then the MV7 came out and I won't miss it. The vocals are nice and full, very full on the low end, and the mic does a great job of isolating vocals and rejecting side and rear noise. I'd call the MV7 broadcast quality, for sure.
3) Built-in audio monitoring and levels control
What's super cool is the built-in monitoring feature, with a touch slider to control monitoring volume. It's a 3.5mm stereo (aux) jack that allows you to route your audio via USB from your computer into your headphones. The slider is right on the mic, so you can adjust it right in front of your face.
4) Form factor and build
You wouldn't think that the way a microphone looks would matter, but it does, especially to podcasters. And, if you live stream your recordings, then it definitely matters. The Shure MV7 looks LEGIT. There's a silver option, but I got the sleek black mic option, and I feel like a total badass on camera using this microphone.
It's built very well, with a metal yoke for mounting and sturdy knobs to tighten the tilt of the microphone. The connections are solid for XLR and 3.5mm, my only small qualm is that the USB port is by nature not as solid, but I'm willing to overlook this in lieu of the amazing overall quality of this podcaster microphone dream.