Choosing the right microphone is a pivotal decision for anyone venturing into the world of streaming, especially in a field where audio quality can make or break your content. And with the plethora of microphone options available, it can be overwhelming, making it essential to find the perfect fit for your streaming needs. 

But fret not! There are two exceptional choices from Shure that have garnered recognition among content creators: the SM7B and SM7dB streaming microphones. 
So, whether you're an aspiring streamer, a seasoned content creator, or someone on the cusp of stepping into the streaming arena, how will these microphone options elevate your streaming experience?

An Audio Icon is Reborn

The SM7B is a legendary iconic microphone cherished by musicians, podcasters and streamers worldwide. As a matter of fact, in 2023, Shure celebrated the 50th anniversary of this legend that has gained global popularity. 

Where did it all begin, you ask?

Introduced in 1973, the SM7 paved the way for audio excellence. Its successor, the SM7B, arrived in 2001, featuring a larger accessory windscreen and quickly achieving its current legendary status. Five decades after its debut, the SM7B is more beloved than ever, with engineers, performers, content creators, broadcasters, gamers, and streamers all recognising its iconic capabilities. From beatboxing to becoming a podcasting powerhouse, there is no doubt that the SM7B dynamic vocal microphone has left an indelible mark on the audio landscape.

Now, enter the new SM7dB — a microphone that retains the exceptional sound of its predecessors but incorporates a custom preamp designed by Shure. This latest iteration of the legendary XLR dynamic microphone is tailor-made for podcasters, streamers and musicians, offering a seamless way to capture perfect vocals in any recording setup.

Drawing from the same reliable DNA as its predecessor, the SM7dB has been optimised for the demands of today's streamers. It seamlessly combines robust sound quality with unparalleled ease of use. From its sleek design to its improved features, the SM7dB delivers all the capabilities of the SM7B while infusing an extra layer of finesse into its performance. Moreover, its innovative attributes are finely tuned to meet the ever-evolving demands of contemporary streamers, delivering a seamlessly optimised experience that propels your streaming quality to unprecedented heights. 

Now, the question remains: which one should you choose? Both sound amazing, as always, so it really depends on your specific situation. Let us break it down for you. 

SM7B vs SM7dB Streaming Microphones

• SM7B is an audio icon known for its legendary broadcast sound
• SM7B requires around +60dB of clean gain 
• SM7dB has a Shure-designed onboard preamp
• SM7dB is more affordable than buying an SM7B plus an extra preamp

Left: The SM7B, Right: The SM7dB

For Musicians

If you have very high-quality audio interfaces, you might prefer to stick to the original SM7B, especially if you are making music and or recording several tracks at a time.

For Streamers, Content Creators

You love the SM7 sound, but you don't want to purchase an expensive audio setup providing oodles of extra gain for a single mic. Or maybe you have an XLR interface already hooked up to your computer, but you simply do not quite have the necessary oomph to power the SM7B. In these cases, the SM7dB will be your choice of microphone.

Another reason why you might prefer SM7dB to the original is for travelling. It helps to eliminate one more item (preamp) from your mobile recording set up. 

Check out this product review by Geek Culture.

Unveil the Perfect Match with Shure

Ready to choose the streaming microphone that suits your needs best? 

We've laid out the details of the SM7B and SM7dB to help you make the perfect decision. Whether you're a seasoned streamer or just stepping into the world of content creation, Shure's got your back. 
For more tips, check out our guide on the Top 3 Tips for Streaming: Best Microphone in Singapore and More.