Equipment Review
Product Reviewed:
Shure SM7A dynamic mic
Made by: Shure
Cost: $375.00 US
Submitted by Joel Cameron
Rating: 
Features:
Cardioid dynamic mic Bass roll-off and midrange emphasis switches for a choice of four different response curves, Hum coil provides shielding from electromagnetic hum Frequency response: 50 to 20,000 Hz (effectively tops out at around 15 kHz) This is the update to the previous SM7 dynamic mic. The "improvement" is primarily in the hum rejection spec and the yoke mount (which holds the mic firmer than before). I can find no sonic differences compared to the former model.
Technical Specifications:
What I liked:
This mic, like its predecessor, is wonderful for vocal assignments. It's a great choice for "live" recording because of the reduced sensitivity of its dynamic design, plus it's built like a tank (like other Shure dynamics, you can drive nails with it!). It lends a certain, flattering silkiness (like a soft graininess) to vocals that can really help them sit clearly in the front a mix while simultaneously blending the vocal into the track (check out Sheryl Crow's "Favorite Mistake" and to see what I mean). I also like its tendency to 'fatten up' vocals, which is useful for singers with 'thin' voices. Additionally the bass roll-off and presence boost switches allow the user to tailor the mic's response to a given task - quite useful. It's also a great guitar cabinet and percussion mic. At around $375 street price, it's a no-brainer for home-studio enthusiasts and pro's alike.
What I didn't:
The threaded stand recepticle at the base of the yoke mount allows the mic to be turned on its stand a bit more easily than I'd like (I assume this is because of its heritage as a DJ mic, and such a design allows the easy manipulation of placement "on-the-air>" ??). Generally this isn't a problem, but I just kinda prefer my mics to stay 'solidly' where I put them.
User Tips:
The SM7A's reduced sensitivity (compared to condenser mics) makes it a great choice for recording live vocals or recording vocals in the studio without headphones (one of my favorite tricks for capturing a "live" energy). It is particularly fond of women's vocals, giving them an in-your-face intimacy with a silky-smooth, even sexy tone. Be sure to audition vocals with the presence-boost switch both on and off to find the best choice as this control's effect is quite potent.
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