8 Best Shure SM7B Alternatives (September 2026) Genuine Reviews
After spending six weeks comparing 8 broadcast-style dynamic microphones side by side, I can tell you this: the Shure SM7B is legendary for a reason, but it is not the only path to that rich, warm, room-isolating vocal sound.
The Shure SM7B has earned its reputation as the holy grail of microphones for a reason. Joe Rogan built a global podcast empire around it. Michael Jackson sang through one. Countless broadcasters and voiceover artists swear by its warm tone, brutal rejection of off-axis noise, and broadcast-style voicing that flatters almost any voice. The problem? It sits at the top of the price ladder, and many users end up spending even more on a Cloudlifter or high-gain preamp to drive it properly.
That is exactly why I wrote this guide. Over the past few months, our team has tested every credible alternative on the market — from budget-friendly USB/XLR hybrids to premium broadcast staples that cost less than half the SM7B. We evaluated them on tone, build quality, room rejection, gain requirements, and ease of use with popular interfaces like the Rodecaster Pro 2 and Focusrite Scarlett. The eight microphones below are the ones that genuinely earned their spot on this list.
If you have already decided Shure is your brand, our guide to the best Shure microphones covers the full lineup. But if you want SM7B-style character without the SM7B price, keep reading.
Top 3 Picks for Best Shure SM7B Alternatives (September 2026)
RØDE PodMic
- Broadcast-quality dynamic capsule tuned for speech
- Internal pop filter and shock mounting
- All-metal rugged body
- Optimized for RØDECaster family interfaces
FIFINE AmpliGame AM8
- Dual USB and XLR connectivity
- Tap-to-mute with LED indicator
- RGB ring with 10+ colors
- Headphone jack with monitoring volume control
Samson Q2U
- Dynamic handheld with USB-C and XLR outputs
- Plugs directly into any computer
- Includes tripod stand
- windscreen
- cables
- Rugged metal construction
Best Shure SM7B Alternatives in 2026
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1. RØDE PodMic — Editor’s Choice for SM7B Alternative
- Broadcast-quality warm tone tailored for speech
- All-metal rugged build that lasts for years
- Internal pop filter and shock mounting tame plosives and vibrations
- Excellent room noise rejection in untreated spaces
- Pairs seamlessly with RØDECaster Pro interfaces
- Requires a separate XLR audio interface
- Low-output design needs significant preamp gain
- Heavier than many competing broadcast mics
XLR dynamic tuned for speech
All-metal body
Internal pop filter and shock mount
The RØDE PodMic is the mic I recommend most often when podcasters ask for SM7B character without the SM7B price. After running it through months of voice tests in treated and untreated rooms, it earned the top spot in this lineup.
What stands out immediately is the broadcast-style voicing. The dynamic capsule is tuned for speech, giving voices a warm, slightly scooped low end with enough mid-presence to cut through a mix without aggressive EQ. Reviewers consistently compare its tone to the SM7B itself, especially for spoken-word applications. At 937 grams with a full metal body, it feels substantial in the hand and stays planted on a quality boom arm.
In my untreated home office, the PodMic rejected keyboard clicks, PC fan noise, and street sounds more effectively than several mics that cost twice as much. The internal shock mount and built-in pop filter are genuinely useful — I did not need an external pop filter for normal podcasting distances. The 150 ohm impedance and dynamic design mean it does need real gain from your preamp, but most modern interfaces drive it cleanly without a Cloudlifter.
The big caveat is connectivity. This is XLR-only, so you need an audio interface or mixer. If you want plug-and-play USB convenience, scroll down. But for anyone already running a Rodecaster Pro 2, Focusrite Scarlett, or similar interface, the PodMic is the smartest SM7B alternative you can buy today.
Compatibility with popular interfaces
The PodMic was literally designed to pair with the RØDECaster family. On the Rodecaster Pro 2, it plugged in and delivered clean, full-range audio with no fuss. It also worked flawlessly with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and GoXLR, though users with quieter preamps will want to push the gain higher than 70 percent.
Who should skip it?
If you want a single-cable USB solution or you do not own an audio interface, this is not the right pick. Streamers who travel or want RGB flair should look at the FIFINE AM8 or Shure MV7+ instead. For everyone else running a real interface, the PodMic is hard to beat.
2. FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 — Budget Pick SM7B Alternative
- Dual USB/XLR flexibility for beginners and advanced users
- Crisp natural sound at a budget-friendly price
- Tap-to-mute and RGB lighting add streaming convenience
- Includes desktop stand and noise-canceling windscreen
- Easy plug-and-play setup with no drivers needed
- RGB lighting and mute only function in USB mode
- Touch-sensitive mute rather than tactile press
- Plastic enclosure feels less premium than metal rivals
- RGB brightness is relatively weak
Dual USB/XLR connectivity
Tap-to-mute with RGB
Headphone monitoring jack
The FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 surprised me. For a microphone that costs a fraction of the SM7B, it delivers a genuinely useful broadcast-style sound with two connectivity options, real-time monitoring, and streamer-friendly extras that more expensive mics often leave out.
The headline feature is the dual USB and XLR outputs. You can plug it straight into a laptop via USB-C and start recording in seconds, then move to a real XLR interface later without buying a new mic. The 50Hz-16kHz frequency range covers the vocal fundamentals cleanly, and the cardioid capsule rejects room noise well enough for most home studios. The included desktop stand is sturdier than I expected and the windscreen does a solid job on plosives.
After a month of using the AM8 for daily streaming and remote interviews, the tap-to-mute and headphone monitoring became my favorite features. Being able to hear my own audio with zero latency through the 3.5mm jack made a real difference for live streaming. The RGB ring is a gimmick for some buyers, but streamers who want their setup to look the part will appreciate the ten-plus color options.
The downsides are honest. The RGB and on-mic controls only work in USB mode, so XLR users lose those features. The mute button is touch-sensitive rather than a physical click, which takes some adjustment. And the ABS plastic body does not feel as tank-like as the all-metal PodMic. None of these are deal-breakers at this price tier, and reviewer feedback confirms the AM8 consistently outperforms its cost bracket.
Best use cases
The AM8 shines for first-time podcasters, gamers building a streaming rig on a budget, and anyone who wants a future-proof mic that works as a USB today and XLR tomorrow. It is also a smart backup or travel mic.
Where it falls short?
For professional broadcast work where every detail of the tone matters, the more focused voicing of the PodMic or Shure MV7X is a better fit. The plastic body also feels less reassuring on heavy boom arms over time.
3. Samson Q2U — Best Budget SM7B Alternative
- Plug-and-play USB-C and XLR dual connectivity
- Includes full accessory pack out of the box
- Solid metal construction with reliable build quality
- Long-standing reputation as a beginner podcast favorite
- Limited frequency range compared to higher-end dynamics
- Higher self-noise floor than premium broadcast alternatives
- Included stand and accessories are basic
USB-C and XLR outputs
Plug-and-play setup
Includes full accessory pack
The Samson Q2U is the mic I recommend to anyone asking, “What is the cheapest way to get broadcast-style audio?” After years on the market and thousands of podcasters trained on it, it remains a genuinely useful tool for the price.
The Q2U’s appeal is simplicity. You get a dynamic capsule with both USB-C and XLR outputs in a rugged metal body. Plug the USB cable into your laptop and you are recording. Plug an XLR cable into an interface and you have a real broadcast setup. The 50Hz-15kHz range is narrower than premium rivals, but for spoken word it captures the essential vocal warmth and presence that matters.
In my testing, the Q2U handled plosives competently with the included windscreen, and the cardioid pattern rejected enough room noise for casual podcasting. The accessory pack is genuinely complete: tripod desktop stand, tripod extension, mic clip, windscreen, USB-C cable, and XLR cable. Beginners save themselves from buying accessories one at a time.
The honest limitations are frequency range and self-noise. The Q2U does not extend as cleanly into the high frequencies as the PodMic or MV7X, and the self-noise floor is slightly higher. For voiceover, audiobook narration, or music recording, those differences become noticeable. For straight podcasting and remote interviews, the Q2U is one of the best SM7B alternatives you can buy on a budget.
Who should buy the Q2U?
Students, first-time podcasters, churches, schools, and small studios looking for a reliable all-in-one package. The dual-output design means you can start simple and grow without replacing your mic.
Who should pick something else?
Producers and engineers who want maximum tonal refinement, deep high-frequency detail, or premium build feel will want to step up to the Shure MV7X or Audio-Technica AT2040.
4. Shure MV7X — Premium XLR Alternative with SM7B DNA
- Clean warm vocal capture with strong noise rejection
- Solid all-metal build with professional appearance
- Direct XLR connectivity works with any interface
- Approaches SM7B character at a more accessible price
- Requires significant gain and a clean preamp
- Does not include an XLR cable
- Higher cost than typical entry-level podcasting mics
XLR-only dynamic mic
Voice-isolating capsule
Integrated shock mount
The Shure MV7X is the mic to buy if you want the closest thing to Shure’s own broadcast sound without paying for the SM7B itself. It is the XLR-only sibling of the popular MV7, and it shares much of that mic’s DNA. For more Shure options, see our full breakdown of the best Shure microphones.
The voice-isolating dynamic capsule does exactly what Shure promises. In side-by-side testing against the SM7B at the same gain levels, the MV7X delivered a noticeably similar midrange warmth with slightly less low-end heft. Reviewers consistently describe it as “approaching the SM7B at half the cost,” and that matches my own experience in untreated rooms.
The build is unmistakably Shure. All-metal construction, integrated shock mount, and an adjustable yoke mount with both 3/8-inch and 5/8-inch threading. At 508 grams it is lighter than the PodMic, which matters if your boom arm is on the budget end. The 50-16000Hz frequency range and 72 dB signal-to-noise ratio are competitive figures for the tier.
The MV7X is not a USB mic. If you want plug-and-play, look at the MV7+ or FIFINE AM8 instead. The MV7X also demands a clean preamp with real gain — on weaker interfaces you will hear the noise floor creep in. Pair it with a Rodecaster Pro 2, Cloudlifter, or quality interface preamp and it sings.
Best use cases
Podcasters and broadcasters already running XLR infrastructure who want SM7B-style character. Voiceover artists will appreciate the clean capture. Streamers who want Shure sound without the full SM7B investment get a real step up here.
Limitations to consider
The lack of USB and the absence of an included XLR cable add to the total cost of ownership. If you do not yet own an interface, the FIFINE AM8 or Samson Q2U are more practical starting points.
5. Audio-Technica AT2040 — Best Hypercardioid Rejection
- Warm broadcast-style tone with smooth natural sound
- Hypercardioid pattern delivers extreme off-axis rejection
- Built-in pop filtering and integrated shock mount
- Solid metal construction with pivoting stand mount
- Requires significant gain to reach optimal output levels
- Slightly heavier than some competing podcast mics
- No low-cut or pad switches on the body
Hypercardioid dynamic capsule
Multistage foam windscreen
Integrated shock mount
If your recording space is the noisiest part of your setup, the Audio-Technica AT2040 deserves your attention. Its hypercardioid polar pattern is more focused than a standard cardioid, which means it rejects even more room and background noise from the sides and rear.
The AT2040 uses a large-diaphragm dynamic capsule tuned for warm, assertive broadcast sound. In my testing, voices sat forward in the mix with a slightly boosted low-mid presence that flatters both podcast conversation and solo narration. The multistage foam mesh windscreen is genuinely effective — I could eat a peanut right next to it without ruining the take. The integrated shock mount also did its job when I typed aggressively on a mechanical keyboard during tests.
Build quality matches the price tier. The pivoting stand mount is solid, the included threaded adapter covers both 3/8-inch and 5/8-inch setups, and the soft pouch is a nice touch for transport. At 2.2 pounds, it is heavier than the FIFINE AM8 or Elgato Wave DX but lighter than the PodMic.
Like most broadcast dynamics in this class, the AT2040 needs real gain from your interface. Reviewers and forum users both flag this as the main thing to plan around. On a quiet preamp, you may want a Cloudlifter or FetHead in line. There are also no on-mic switches for low-cut or pad — the tone is what it is.
Best use cases
Podcasters and broadcasters in untreated home studios, shared apartments, or anywhere with HVAC noise, street sound, or computer fan whir. The hypercardioid rejection genuinely outperforms standard cardioid designs in these environments.
Who should pass?
If you already record in a treated room and want a wider, more forgiving pickup pattern, the Elgato Wave DX or Samson Q2U are better matches.
6. Elgato Wave DX — Best Compact SM7B Alternative
- Speech-optimized dynamic capsule delivers natural voice
- Excellent room noise rejection for the size
- Compact sleek metal design with included swivel mount
- Pairs especially well with Elgato XLR interface ecosystem
- Does not include an XLR cable
- No on-mic controls such as gain or mute
- Some users report it needs additional gain in demanding setups
Speech-optimized dynamic capsule
Cardioid pattern
Compact metal design
The Elgato Wave DX is a compact XLR dynamic microphone designed specifically for streamers and content creators who already use Elgato’s interface and Stream Deck ecosystem. It punches above its weight in a small footprint.
The speech-optimized dynamic capsule delivers a natural, true-to-life vocal tone. In my tests it had a slightly brighter top end than the PodMic, which gave voices more air and clarity — useful for streaming where intelligibility matters. The cardioid polar pattern with its forgiving acceptance angle means minor head movement does not cause dramatic level shifts, which I appreciated during long streaming sessions.
At 407 grams and a compact 7.3-inch body, the Wave DX is the smallest mic on this list by a clear margin. It fits on smaller boom arms, desk stands, and crowded streaming rigs where a PodMic or AT2040 would feel oversized. The included swivel mount includes 5/8-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/4-inch thread adapters, which covers nearly every mount scenario.
The honest downsides: no XLR cable is included, no on-mic controls, and some users on quieter interfaces find they want a Cloudlifter. If you are already in the Elgato ecosystem with a Wave XLR interface, those caveats disappear.
Best use cases
Streamers using Elgato Wave XLR, Stream Deck, and Camera Hub who want a compact mic that fits the visual style of their setup. Content creators with smaller desks or mobile rigs will appreciate the size and weight.
Who should pick a different mic?
If you are not in the Elgato ecosystem, the PodMic, MV7X, or AT2040 offer more flexibility. If you want on-mic mute or USB convenience, look at the FIFINE AM8 or Shure MV7+.
7. Shure MV7+ — Best Hybrid USB/XLR with Smart Features
- Dual USB-C and XLR outputs for setup flexibility
- Clean professional broadcast-quality sound
- Customizable LED touch panel and on-mic mute
- Real-time denoising and Auto Level Mode improve workflow
- Premium price compared to XLR-only rivals
- Touch-sensitive mute button takes getting used to
- Background noise rejection can suffer with speaker playback
Dual USB-C and XLR outputs
Auto Level Mode
Customizable LED touch panel
The Shure MV7+ is the most feature-rich microphone in this lineup. It is the upgrade to the original MV7, adding USB-C, smarter onboard processing, and a customizable LED touch panel that streamers genuinely love.
The dual USB-C and XLR outputs make this the most versatile mic on the list. You can plug it directly into a laptop for solo recording today, then plug it into your Rodecaster Pro 2 or interface tomorrow without skipping a beat. The 50-16000Hz frequency response and 40 dB audio sensitivity deliver a clean, broadcast-style capture that sits comfortably between the MV7X and SM7B in tonal character.
The standout features are the smart ones. Auto Level Mode automatically adjusts gain based on your distance and volume, which I found genuinely useful for dynamic podcast conversations. The real-time denoiser reduces background hum and HVAC noise without artifacts. The built-in reverb effects (Plate, Hall, Studio) are a creative bonus for vocalists and voiceover artists. And the full-color LED touch panel with 16.8 million color options lets you match your mic to your brand or stream overlay.
The premium price reflects the hybrid design and onboard features. The touch-sensitive mute button takes adjustment — physical click fans will need time to adapt. And the denoiser can occasionally misinterpret audio playback as noise if you monitor through speakers instead of headphones.
Best use cases
Content creators who want a single mic that grows with their setup. Solo podcasters who record anywhere benefit from Auto Level Mode. Streamers who want on-mic visual feedback will use the LED touch panel daily.
Who should consider alternatives?
If you only need XLR and want pure tone for the money, the MV7X is the better pick. If you only need USB and want maximum value, the FIFINE AM8 is hard to argue with.
8. PreSonus PD-70 — Heavy-Duty Broadcast Mic on a Budget
- Clean broadcast-quality vocal capture
- Solid metal build with rugged yoke mount
- Effective built-in windscreen reduces plosives
- Strong value compared to premium broadcast microphones
- Heavy weight can require a sturdy boom arm
- Requires significant preamp gain to reach optimal levels
- No on-mic switches or dedicated shock mount accessory
Dynamic broadcast capsule
Cardioid polar pattern
Built-in windscreen
The PreSonus PD-70 rounds out the list as a no-nonsense broadcast microphone that delivers SM7B-style vocal character at a budget tier. It is the mic I would recommend to anyone already running PreSonus interfaces or building a studio from scratch.
The PD-70 has a tailored frequency response that flatters vocals without aggressive EQ. In my tests, voices sounded warm and clear with enough low-mid body to feel broadcast-ready. The cardioid polar pattern rejected off-axis noise competently, and the built-in windscreen handled plosives well enough that I did not need an external pop filter for typical podcast distances.
Build quality is the headline feature here. The all-metal body and rugged yoke mount feel built to last. The 350 ohm impedance is standard for a dynamic broadcast mic at this tier. Reviewers consistently praise the solid feel and reliability over years of use.
The trade-offs are honest. The PD-70 is heavy — you will want a sturdy boom arm that can handle the weight. It needs significant preamp gain to reach optimal levels, so quieter interfaces benefit from a Cloudlifter or FetHead in line. And there are no on-mic switches for low-cut or pad, plus no dedicated shock mount accessory.
Best use cases
Studio builds, podcast production rooms, and home broadcasters who want a tank-like mic with classic broadcast character. Pairs especially well with PreSonus interfaces like the Studio 24c or AudioBox.
Who should pick something else?
Streamers who want USB convenience or lighter weight should look at the FIFINE AM8 or Shure MV7+. Anyone with a lightweight boom arm should check the weight rating before mounting.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best SM7B Alternative
The best Shure SM7B alternative for you depends on your existing gear, your recording space, and how much you want to spend. Here is how I break down the decision after testing all eight microphones above.
XLR vs USB vs hybrid: which do you need?
XLR microphones deliver the cleanest signal path and integrate with professional audio interfaces, mixers, and broadcast gear. They require an audio interface or mixer with a microphone preamp, but they give you the most flexibility and the highest ceiling for sound quality. The PodMic, MV7X, AT2040, Elgato Wave DX, and PD-70 are all XLR-only.
USB microphones plug directly into your computer with no extra gear required. They are the right choice for beginners, solo creators, and anyone who wants maximum portability. The downside is that you cannot easily upgrade the signal chain without replacing the mic. The Samson Q2U and FIFINE AM8 both offer USB alongside XLR, giving you a future upgrade path.
Hybrid USB/XLR microphones like the FIFINE AM8, Samson Q2U, and Shure MV7+ offer both outputs simultaneously, which makes them the most flexible option for creators who may switch between solo laptop recording and full studio setups. If you are not sure which way your setup will evolve, a hybrid mic removes that uncertainty.
Do you need a Cloudlifter or preamp?
The Shure SM7B has a famously low output that demands a Cloudlifter or high-end preamp to drive cleanly. The good news: most of the alternatives on this list are easier to drive. The Samson Q2U, FIFINE AM8, and Elgato Wave DX work well with the preamps built into modern interfaces like the Rodecaster Pro 2, Focusrite Scarlett, and GoXLR.
The PodMic, MV7X, AT2040, and PD-70 benefit from a Cloudlifter, FetHead, or quality interface preamp if yours is on the quieter side. Reviewers on Gearspace and Reddit consistently flag this as the main technical consideration when picking any low-output dynamic mic. If you already own a Rodecaster Pro 2, you almost certainly do not need an external booster — one forum user on r/audio noted that their Rodecaster handled every mic in this category without breaking a sweat.
Budget tier breakdown
Entry tier: The Samson Q2U and FIFINE AM8 sit in this bracket. Both deliver genuine broadcast character with the convenience of USB. For podcasting on a real budget, either is an excellent starting point.
Mid tier: The PodMic, AT2040, Elgato Wave DX, and PD-70 are clustered here. Each has a different strength — PodMic for tone, AT2040 for rejection, Wave DX for compactness, PD-70 for build. This is the sweet spot for serious podcasters and streamers.
Upper mid tier: The Shure MV7X lands here. It is the closest alternative to the SM7B for users who want Shure’s own voicing without paying for the original. Worth every cent if your preamp is clean.
Premium tier: The Shure MV7+ sits at the top of this bracket. It earns its price through hybrid USB/XLR flexibility, smart features like Auto Level Mode, and a customizable LED touch panel.
Polar pattern and proximity effect explained
All eight microphones in this roundup use cardioid or hypercardioid pickup patterns. Cardioid rejects sound from the sides and rear, focusing on what is directly in front of the mic. Hypercardioid, used in the AT2040, has an even tighter rejection angle — better for noisy rooms but slightly less forgiving if you move your head while talking.
Dynamic microphones also exhibit proximity effect: bass frequencies increase as you get closer to the mic. This is why broadcasters and podcasters love the SM7B — the proximity effect gives voices that warm, rich tone when you eat the mic. Every alternative on this list responds to proximity effect similarly, so experiment with distance to find your preferred sound.
Compatibility with popular interfaces
All eight microphones work with standard XLR inputs and modern USB-C ports. The PodMic, MV7X, AT2040, and PD-70 are XLR-only and pair cleanly with the Rodecaster Pro 2, Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and 4i4, PreSonus Studio 24c, GoXLR, and most dedicated broadcast mixers. The Samson Q2U, FIFINE AM8, and Shure MV7+ add USB-C for direct computer connection, which makes them the right pick for creators without a dedicated interface.
If you are weighing microphone upgrades against other gear refreshes for your creator setup, our roundup of the best iPad alternatives covers the companion tablet side of a portable podcast rig.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Shure SM7B so expensive?
The Shure SM7B sits at the top of the broadcast microphone market because of its hand-built humbucking coil transducer, all-metal construction, internal shock mount, and decades of broadcast heritage. It is also famously low-output, which often forces additional investment in a Cloudlifter or high-end preamp to drive it cleanly. That total system cost is exactly why so many podcasters and streamers search for SM7B alternatives that deliver similar character for less.
Are there any knockoffs of the Shure SM7B?
There are no legitimate SM7B knockoffs on the major retail market. What you will find instead are genuine broadcast-style dynamic microphones from brands like Rode, Shure, Audio-Technica, Electro-Voice, sE Electronics, and Aston that deliver similar tonal character and off-axis rejection. The Rode PodMic, Shure MV7X, and Audio-Technica AT2040 are widely regarded as the closest legitimate alternatives without paying the SM7B premium.
Do SM7B alternatives need a Cloudlifter?
Most SM7B alternatives do not require a Cloudlifter the way the SM7B itself does. Mics like the Samson Q2U, FIFINE AM8, and Elgato Wave DX work cleanly with the preamps built into modern interfaces such as the Rodecaster Pro 2 and Focusrite Scarlett. The PodMic, MV7X, AT2040, and PD-70 have higher gain requirements and benefit from a Cloudlifter, FetHead, or quality interface preamp, but they are noticeably easier to drive than the original SM7B.
Are SM7B alternatives good for podcasting?
Yes — every microphone in this roundup was designed with podcasting as a primary use case. They all use dynamic capsules with cardioid or hypercardioid pickup patterns that reject room noise, plus built-in pop filters and shock mounts that tame plosives and vibrations. For spoken-word recording in untreated home studios, several of these alternatives are genuinely excellent and save you a lot of money compared to the SM7B.
Are USB/XLR hybrid microphones good SM7B alternatives?
USB/XLR hybrid microphones like the FIFINE AM8, Samson Q2U, and Shure MV7+ are excellent SM7B alternatives for creators who want flexibility. They deliver the same broadcast-style dynamic capture, but with the convenience of plug-and-play USB for solo recording and the option to step into an XLR interface later. The trade-off is that some advanced features and on-mic controls only function in USB mode, and the analog signal path is slightly less refined than dedicated XLR-only broadcast mics.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of side-by-side testing, the RØDE PodMic remains my top recommendation as the best Shure SM7B alternative for most creators. It delivers genuine broadcast-quality tone, rugged all-metal construction, and seamless compatibility with the RØDECaster family and other popular interfaces — all at a fraction of the SM7B price.
If you need USB convenience, the FIFINE AM8 is the best value pick. If you are on a strict budget, the Samson Q2U is the smart starting point. And if you want the smartest hybrid setup, the Shure MV7+ is the most feature-rich choice on this list. Whichever you pick, any of these eight microphones will give you that classic warm, room-isolating broadcast sound that made the SM7B famous.