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Description

Elevate your studio recordings with the Shure SM7A, a dynamic microphone that's been a staple in professional audio for decades. Known for its legendary sound quality, the SM7A is a versatile choice for everything from podcasting to vocal tracking. Its robust design minimizes background noise, making it ideal for untreated spaces or live environments. The SM7A's flat, wide-range frequency response ensures accurate sound reproduction, preserving the natural character of your voice or instrument.

This microphone shines with its advanced pneumatic shock mount system, which reduces mechanical noise transmission. It's tailor-made for capturing vocals, but don't be surprised to find it used for instruments and broadcast applications, thanks to its adaptability. The SM7A includes a detachable windscreen for handling close-up vocals, adding to its versatility. Whether you're in a bustling studio or recording in a quiet home setup, this mic will be your reliable companion.

Key Features:

  • Dynamic microphone with a flat, wide-range frequency response
  • Advanced pneumatic shock mount system to minimize mechanical noise
  • Detachable windscreen for close-up vocals
  • Ideal for vocals, instruments, and broadcast applications
  • Renowned for its legendary sound quality in professional settings

Product specs

Brand Shure
Model SM7A
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Microphones
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Microphone Type Dynamic
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Shure SM7A microphone?

The Shure SM7A is a dynamic microphone primarily used for studio recording, particularly for vocals and broadcast applications, thanks to its smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response.

How does the Shure SM7A compare to the SM7B?

The Shure SM7A introduced improvements such as a humbucking coil and an enhanced mic mounting yoke, while the SM7B added a larger foam windscreen for better noise isolation.

Is the Shure SM7A suitable for live performances?

While the Shure SM7A is primarily designed for studio use, its robust build and cardioid polar pattern make it capable for live performances, though it is less common in this setting.

What polar pattern does the Shure SM7A use, and what are its benefits?

The Shure SM7A features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps isolate the sound source and minimize background noise, making it ideal for vocal recordings in untreated rooms.

Does the Shure SM7A require phantom power?

The Shure SM7A is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power to operate, unlike condenser microphones.

iWi Studio

iWi Studio

Mic Comparison - Shure SM7a, Gefell UM70, Oktava MK105, Oktava ML17

Video thumbnail for Mic Comparison - Shure SM7a, Gefell UM70, Oktava MK105, Oktava ML17 by iWi Studio

Mic Comparison - Shure SM7a, Gefell UM70, Oktava MK105, Oktava ML17

iWi Studio

iWi Studio

Video thumbnail for Microphone Face-Off: SM7A vs SM7B vs SM7dB by Inside Blackbird

Microphone Face-Off: SM7A vs SM7B vs SM7dB

Inside Blackbird

Inside Blackbird

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Shure SM7A.

Comparisons

  • SM7A offers a more open and clear sound compared to the SM7B, which some find dull even after EQ adjustments.

    Source
  • The SM57, sharing the same diaphragm design as the SM7 series, differs in winding and grill, leading to distinct sound profiles.

    Source
  • SM7A is perceived by some as resembling a decent condenser mic more than the SM7B, highlighting its unique tonal quality.

    Source
  • Users suggest the SM7A can be compared to the EV RE20 for versatility, recommending side-by-side testing to find the best match for personal preferences.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The SM7A, used on Michael Jackson’s "Thriller," is praised for its extended low and high frequencies compared to the SM7B.

    Source
  • It's noted that both the SM7A and SM7B include an isolating humbucker to affect the noise floor, though the material and winding differences may alter sound perception.

    Source
  • Owners report the SM7A can handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) well, maintaining clarity and capturing fast transients effectively.

    Source
  • The SM7A's recessed diaphragm and foam padding help minimize proximity effect, beneficial for voice-over work.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users suggest using Match EQ tools like FabFilter ProQ3 for adjusting SM7B to resemble the SM7A sound profile.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The SM7A is effectively used on hi-hats, electric guitar, and snare, providing versatility beyond vocals.

    Source
  • It's noted that the SM7A performs well on trumpet, offering impressive results for brass instruments.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Serj Tankian uses Shure SM7A

Serj Tankian

Singer, Guitarist

System of a Down

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "System of a Down - Making of Toxicity - Behind the Scenes - Early Cut," at the 6:44 mark, Serj Tankian is seen using the Shure SM7A microphone during the recording of the "Toxicity" album. This footage was provided by Wayne Smith on YouTube, showcasing behind-the-scenes moments from the Enhanced CD.

Album Usage

The Shure SM7A has been featured on the following albums:

2 alternative and related items for Shure SM7A, curated by the Equipboard community.

Shure SM7B

$348.50 - $669.99

newer

Produced for only two years, the SM7A was the predecessor of the SM7B: https://service.shure.com/s/article/sm7-sm7a-sm7b-differences

SM7 - Introduced 1973 with a U.S. retail price of $256.80.

SM7A - Humbucking coil improved; design of the mic mounting yoke also improved. Introduced 1999.

SM7B - Larger foam windscreen added. Introduced 2001.

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