Shure MV7 Review – A Game Changer
| Pros +Robust build quality +Professional sound +Good connectivity options +Included software is superb |
| Cons –Not iPad comparable –No accessories included |
| Polar Pattern: Cardioid Output Impedance: 314 Ω Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz Adjustable Gain Range: 0 – +36 dB Sensitivity: (@ 1 kHz, open circuit voltage) -55 dBV/Pa [1] (1.78 mV), -47 dBFS/Pa [1] [2] Headphone Output 3.5 mm (1/8″) |
It’s not often a microphone comes out that everybody gets excited about, but the Shure MV7 is one of those microphones, and for good reasons. In this article I will review the Shure MV7 microphone in detail, looking at the features, pros and cons, build quality, sound quality, and technical specifications, such as the connectivity.
What makes the MV7 so special?
First of all, if you haven’t heard of Shure then allow me to inform you. Shure having been microphones making since the 1920’s. They were even contracted to make microphones to assist America during World War II. Their track record is flawless and they have made some of the most iconic microphones in the industry such as the SM57, SM58, and the Shure SM7B. All of which I own.
The Shure MV7 is actually based on the legendary SM7B. Michael Jackson’s famously used this microphone to record his voice on the album Thriller. Today it’s still used in studios around the world, for live streams, and for podcasts, such as The Joe Rogan Experience. You have probably heard this microphone a lot more than you know!
Shure wanted to make a new microphone influenced and inspired by the SM7B, but one that is more affordable, versatile, and with a modern twist. I’m very excited to write this Shure MV7 review, so let’s get started with the build quality.
Reliable Build Quality with Unique Features
Just like the SM7B, the MV7 is built like a tank. Its black metal casing is robust, sturdy, and classy in appearance. It looks sleek, cool, and professional. It has the kind of design and style that is timeless, and will look good in any studio. The windscreen is removable and the diaphragm capsule underneath is solidly made. It also comes in silver if you’re not keen on black and fancy something a bit different.
The Shure MV7 has some features that really bring it into the 21st century. It has an incredibly intuitive touch panel for controlling gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and muting your mic audio. This is really convenient as you can directlly control everything on the microphone, and as they are touch controls you won’t cause any contact noise when adjusting the settings. The touch panel has in-built LEDs, which flash or change colour depending on what mode you’re in, and what you’re adjusting. This makes for a super-efficient workflow, especially if you’re live streaming on a platform like Twitch, on a live call, or podcasting.
Another bonus of the Shure MV7 is it can work as both an XLR and USB microphone. So, if you already have an audio interface, you can plug the MV7 into it, but you don’t have an audio interface, you can plug the MV7 directly into your computer, tablet, or iPad (with the right converter cable). This makes it a very adaptable and versatile microphone, giving you the best of both worlds. If you’re not sure what an audio interface is, be sure to check out my article ‘What is an Audio Interface?’. Finally, next to the USB and XLR input is a headphone jack so you can directly monitor yourself whilst recording or streaming.
Smooth and Clear Sound
The Shure MV7 has a cardioid polar pattern -read about polar patterns here- and can record up to 24-bit depth, which means it can record which an exceptionally high resolution, and it sounds outstanding. On vocals or dialogue, it sounds clear, smooth, and well-rounded. When speaking into the MV7, your voice gets that classic radio DJ presenter sound.
If you want something professional sounding for your podcast, live stream, or even an upgrade for your Zoom or Skype calls for work, then this would be a great microphone to choose. If you’re a singer, this is a good microphone that will sound accurate, but it won’t add any shine or sparkle to your voice. If that’s something you’re looking for you should consider a condenser microphone instead of the Shure SM7, which is a dynamic microphone.
An App to Give You More Control
The Shure MV7 includes their ShurePlus Motiv App, which allows you to control the microphone on your desktop or phone. You can adjust the mic gain, muting, EQ, tone, compression, and limiting. This gives you full control over your audio, and the way that the microphone sounds according to your voice. For example, the tone control allows you to select between a dark, neutral, or bright sound; adding more versatility to this already excellent sounding microphone.
You may choose to be close to, or far from the MV7 when recording. So, this intuitive app even allows you to select between a close and far setting, and will automatically adjust the microphone’s gain depending on which you select. Overall to make the most of the Shure MV7 you should take advantage this simple yet brilliant app. It’s very user friendly and easy to use, so even if you’re a beginner you won’t have any problems.
Should you buy the Shure MV7?
The Shure MV7 is a truly superb microphone. It’s a game changer due to connectivity options and features. It’s the combination of a classic microphone with a modern take that makes this microphone so special and unique. If you’re a podcaster, streamer, singer, or perhaps you just want a quality audio for your Zoom calls, then this is a brilliant microphone to buy.
The audio sounds professional and the build quality is durable. This microphone should last you a long time and the added software will enable you to get the most out of it. It’s not the cheapest microphone, but it’s not the most expensive either. If, however the price point is too high for you, then you should take a look at my article ‘The Best Budget USB Microphones’.
I hope you enjoyed my Shure MV7 review, please comment down below and let me know why you are considering buying this microphone. You can also ask me any questions and I’ll be sure to get back to you. Feel free to browse my website for other gear reviews, tips, tricks, and guides.
Chris