Shure MV7

Microphone Overview

The majority of Shure microphones feature XLR connectivity. The latter requires technical knowledge and a minimum of equipment to operate correctly.

It is therefore not accessible to everyone. It is to solve this problem that Shure designed the MV7 . A rather particular microphone, we call it the hybrid microphone . In fact, it has two types of outputs: XLR and USB.

It is a pro USB microphone equipped with a cardioid polar pattern. The microphone is mainly aimed at Podcasters or any other videos produced essentially alone in front of a microphone.

It incorporates an adjustable armature which can then be mounted on various microphone stands and a touchscreen interface to control microphone gain. It is also possible to adjust the headphone volume, monitor mix balance and mute from the interface.

design of Shure MV7

If we take the example of children in the same family, we often hear that the second or third child has difficulty following in the footsteps of their elders.

If we transpose this situation with that of Shure microphones, the SM7B is the elder of the MV7. In our case, the Shure MV7 lives up to its predecessor with a little extra: hybrid connectivity .

As the Shure MV7 is inspired by the SM7B, this is also felt in terms of design. It is cut entirely from aluminum, except for the ring which acts as a support. The ring also houses the various microphone controls.

As soon as you grasp it, a real impression of quality emerges.

A screw-on foam pop filter covers the MV7 . Once you remove the protective grille, you have direct access to the dynamic capsule .

On the back of the MV7 is the micro USB port which allows you to connect it to a computer and an XLR port . It is also equipped with a jack port which allows monitoring without latency .

more compact microphone . It is also much heavier, weighing in at 550g. It is neither supplied with a microphone stand, nor a tripod, nor a clamp.

We therefore advise you to obtain one to ensure that handling noise is limited .

The sound quality of the Shure MV7

The microphone works quite differently from other USB microphones like the Apogee HypeMic. Generally, microphones are placed vertically facing the sound source, which is not the case with the Shure MV7. For optimal sound quality , you will need to orient the microphone head perpendicular to its sound source.

The windshield provided with the microphone is much thicker than that of the SM7B. However, it shows great effectiveness against plosives. This type of microphone allows you to capture sound perfectly .

The microphone settings are quite simple. The “auto” mode will only require a few settings and adjustments, which are very effective and have been designed to make your life easier.

When you opt for manual mode, you will have all the control. Moreover, for a better experience, this type of mode offers a few more options. If necessary, you can also create your own configurations by associating them with names corresponding to your uses.

If you are a beginner, the different mobile applications and PC applications are well studied. The manufacturer was able to put in place all the necessary elements. The ultimate goal is to be able to offer you a turnkey solution for almost perfect recording .

We can then say that the Shure MV7 is the ideal microphone for your home studio . Used on a computer, you will no longer need a sound card or pre-amp.

Just plug it in and let the magic happen. You'll get crisp sound without the need for additional windscreens or windshields. The one that comes with the microphone is thick enough to block out hissing noises and plosives.

Very directional thanks to its cardioid polar pattern, you won't have to worry about any background noise. They are also managed by the microphone once it is properly placed. Depending on what you expect from the microphone, we invite you to use an equalizer or not.

In any case, we must admit that the treble is soft, and the bass is well defined. The sound quality ratio is also magnificent for a USB type microphone. The proximity effect is very present .

The Shuremotiv desktop application

This is an application that allows you to quickly adjust microphone settings . Once configured, it memorizes the last variables used. The next time you use it, you can then speed up the configuration.

The interface mainly presents two types of configuration:

• Manual configuration
• Automatic configuration

By activating automatic mode, the application will select the best choices based on audio needs. In manual mode, you will have complete freedom over controlling microphone settings during recordings.

Note : You can also consult our full test and review of the AKG C414 XLS . This guide presents the excellence of this microphone, its technical characteristics, the reason why you should buy a microphone, as well as opinions on this condenser studio microphone.

Equalizer mode

Using the equalizer allows for amplification or attenuation of frequency bands. Depending on the mode chosen, you will have four types of characteristics:

• Uniform mode : The sound signal will not undergo any processing
• High pass mode : the high pass filter will be activated. This will have the effect of reducing the proximity effect.
• Presence amplification mode : By choosing this mode, the equalization will enhance the clarity and amplitude of the sound source.
• High Pass Mode and Presence Boost : Once both modes are selected, the definition and clarity of the sound source will be significantly improved.

The Shure MV7, portable microphone of the century

As it has a USB micro-B port, you can use the USB-A and USB-C cables provided with it to connect it to the computer. It can be used on a computer running Windows or Mac, or on a smartphone running Android or iOS.

With its applications, we can also say that it is the most suitable microphone for a nomad who likes to record everywhere. Very easy to use, the Shure MV7 is a small, easily transportable microphone.

Despite its small size, it remains very robust and is one of the essential recording equipment for lovers of podcasts and voice-overs . By using the USB port, you will no longer need to search for phantom power, sound card or amplifier. Just plug in the mic and you're done.

If you are a beginner, this is the best rap mic or for any sort of artist. With this type of microphone, you won't get lost in all the range of recording equipment needed for an XLR connection. By opting for a USB microphone such as the Shure MV7, you combine quality and ease of use .

Equipped with a headset microphone , you will then have access to immediate control of your recording.

Microphone Features

• MFi approved: Yes
• Digital processing resource modes (preset):
  • Near/Far, 
  • Dark/Natural/Bright
• Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
• Directivity curve: unidirectional (cardioid)
• Output impedance: 314 Ohms
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Adjustable gain range: 0 to +36 dB 
• Sensitivity (at 1 kHz, open circuit voltage): -55 dBV/Pa (1.78 mV), -47 dBFS/Pa
• Maximum SPL, Digital Output: 132 dB SPL
• Headphone output: 3.5 mm (1/8 in)

• Polarity: Positive sound pressure on the diaphragm produces a positive voltage on pin 2 relative to pin 3.
• Mute Button Attenuation: Yes
• Clipper: Yes
• Compressor: Yes
• Power: powered by USB or Lightning cable
• Housing: All metal construction
• Mounting Type: 5/8-27 Threaded Mount
• Net weight: 0.55 kg (1.21 lb).

My verdict on the Shure MV7

The Shure MV7 is a hybrid dynamic microphone . We are dealing with a small, very robust microphone inspired by the Shure SM7B. It is a professional microphone designed for studio recording. Very directional, it allows sounds placed in front of it to be captured with great precision.

Shure developed it primarily for vocal recording . Therefore, for a broadcasting, voice-over or podcast application the sound result will be more than satisfactory. However, we recommend it less as a singing microphone, the sound it produces is not entirely suitable for this use.

Connected via XLR, as a classic input to a sound card, it can then be used as a singing microphone . However, the sound will be quite muffled given the thickness of the windshield.

Applied to an unamplified acoustic guitar, and placed about fifty meters away, it produces a clean, warm sound. However, if you're expecting audio that's very faithful to its source, you'll be disappointed. But the result remains very brilliant.

Indeed, the microphone also displays very high sensitivity and records every slide of fingers on the strings. Compared to the Audio Technica AT2020 , it comes off with flying colors.

As a result, the Shure MV7 remains a professional microphone that can really be used in almost all situations . The sensitivity of the microphone leaves nothing to be desired and for vocal recording in a recording studio , the results will leave you speechless. It is simply perfect for this type of recording.

We do not recommend its use for miking instruments such as guitar, cymbal, snare drum or bass drum. The sound it produces is not quite appropriate.

If you want to get the most out of the XLR side of the microphone, we advise you to invest in a very good DAP and preamplifier. It also requires a very high-end interface with 100% gain.

But even with this type of equipment, the recording volume is still far too low. When you use this option, you will no longer have access to the interface corresponding to that of the USB microphone: all DSP processing.

The manufacturer designed the microphone mainly for people who do not have advanced technical knowledge. It is aimed at people who do not want to bother with complex connections, hence the integration of the USB port .

Our opinion on the Shure MV7

The Shure MV7 is a hybrid dynamic microphone whose sensitivity is comparable to that of a condenser studio microphone. It was designed mainly for nomads, voice-over and podcast enthusiasts. As it is very easy to use, it is also suitable for beginners. Indeed, the functions that the microphone offers allow any amateur to gradually immerse themselves in the professional world. The Shure MV7 produces very clear and crisp sound. So far, the MV7 remains the best USB microphone that can be found on the market.

Shure mv7 Microphone Demo

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