General Description

The Model SM7B dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications. It features excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum generated by computer monitors, neon lights, and other electrical devices. In addition to its standard windscreen, it also includes the A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications.

The SM7B is an outstanding choice for the following applications:

  • Recording Studio—Instrumental and Vocal
  • Location Recording
  • Motion Picture and Television Scoring
  • Television, Talk Shows, and News Desks
  • Radio Announcing and Production
  • Narration

Microphone Placement

Speak directly into the mic, 1 to 6 inches (2.54 to 15 cm) away to block off-axis noise. For a warmer bass response, move closer to the microphone. For less bass, move the microphone away from you.

Proper positioning for the SM7B microphone

The Velcro tie securing the cable

Velcro Cable Tie

Use the enclosed velcro tie to secure the cable.

Windscreen

Use the standard windscreen for general voice and instrumental applications.

When you speak, you may hear vocal pops from some consonant sounds (known as plosives). To prevent more plosive sounds and wind noise, you can use the larger A7WS windscreen.

Mounting Instructions

The default setup for the SM7B is for a boom mount. To set up the SM7B for a microphone stand:

  1. Remove tightening nuts on the sides.
  2. Remove the fitted washers, the lock washers, the outer brass washers, and the brass sleeves.
  3. Slide the bracket off the microphone. Be careful not to lose the washers still on the microphone.
  4. Invert and rotate the bracket. Slide it back onto the bolts over the brass and plastic washers still on the microphone. The bracket should fit so the XLR connector faces the rear of the microphone and the Shure logo on the back of the microphone is right-side up.
  5. Replace the brass sleeves. Be sure they are seated properly within the inner washers.
  6. Replace the outer brass washers, the lock washers, and the fitted washers.
  7. Replace the tightening nuts and tighten the microphone at the desired angle.

Note: If the tightening nuts do not hold the microphone in place, you may need to re-position the brass sleeves and the washers.

The mounting assembly of an SM7B exploded so you can see each part

Mounting Assembly - Exploded View

① Tightening nut

② Fitted washer

③ Lock washer

④ Brass washers

⑤ Brass sleeve

⑥ Mounting bracket

⑦ Plastic washer

⑧ Response switches

⑨ Switch cover

⑩ Windscreen

Side and rear view of SM7B on boom and stand mount

Boom and Microphone Stand Mounting Configuration

Preamplifier Use

The SM7B has a sensitivity rating at -59 dB and requires more gain than what most entry-level or mid-tier preamplifiers can deliver. Use an inline boost amplifier or stronger preamp if your preamp does not have more than 60 dB of gain.

A preamp plugged in to the SM7B

Preamplifier Configuration

Install or Remove the Stand Adapter

To mount the microphone on a 3/8 in. stand, insert the included brass stand adapter and tighten it with a coin or screwdriver.

A hand inserting the brass adapter

Important: Make sure that the slots on the adapter face outward.

The stand adapter with arrows pointing toward the coin notches.

SM7B Switch Settings

Use the switches on the back of the SM7B to adjust the frequency response of the microphone. Move the switches with a pen, pencil, or screwdriver.

Note: You can change the switch settings while the mic is in use or plugged in.

Flat response SM7B switch

Flat response: This default setting works for most applications.

Bass rolloff SM7B switch

Bass rolloff: If you want to reduce the bass, push the left switch down. This can help lower background hum from A/C, HVAC, or traffic.

Presence boost SM7B switch

Presence boost: If you want a brighter sound in the mid-range frequencies, push the right switch up. This can help improve vocal clarity.

Additional Tips

Visit Shure Educational Articles for more information on recording techniques for different instruments and applications.

Specifications

Type

Dynamic (moving coil)

SM7B Frequency Response

50 to 20,000 Hz

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Output Impedance

150 Ω

Sensitivity

(@ 1 kHz, open circuit voltage)

-59 dBV/Pa[1] (1.12 mV)

Hum Pickup

(typical, at 60 Hz, equivalent SPL/mOe)

11 dB

Polarity

Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3

Weight

0.764 kg (1.69 lbs)

[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL

SM7B frequency responses

Typical SM7B Frequency Response

SM7B polar pattern

Typical SM7B Polar Pattern

SM7B wiring diagram

Internal Connections

SM7B dimensions

Overall Dimensions

Accessories

Furnished Accessories

Switch Cover Plate for SM7, SM7A and SM7BRPM602
Large Black Foam Windscreen for SM7, also see RK345A7WS
5/8" to 3/8" Thread Adapter31A1856

Optional Accessories

25 foot (7.5m) Triple-Flex® Microphone XLR Cable with chrome connectorsC25F

Replacement Parts

Cartridge for SM7, SM7A and SM7BRPM106
Black Windscreen for SM7, SM7A, SM7B, also see A7WSRK345
Nut and Washer for SM7, SM7A and SM7B Yoke MountRPM604

Certifications

CE Notice

Hereby, Shure Incorporated declares that this product with CE Marking has been determined to be in compliance with European Union requirements.

The full text of the EU declaration of conformity is available at the following site: https://www.shure.com/en-EU/support/declarations-of-conformity.

UKCA Notice:

Hereby, Shure Incorporated declares that this product with UKCA Marking has been determined to be in compliance with UKCA requirements. The full text of the UK declaration of conformity is available at the following site: https://www.shure.com/en-GB/support/declarations-of-conformity.

Authorized UK Importer / Representative:

Shure UK Limited

Unit 2, The IO Centre, Lea Road,

Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1 AS, UK

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

Image of a household waste receptacle, crossed out

In the European Union and the United Kingdom, this label indicates that this product should not be disposed of with household waste. It should be deposited at an appropriate facility to enable recovery and recycling.

Please consider the environment, electric products and packaging are part of regional recycling schemes and do not belong to regular household waste.

Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals (REACH) Directive

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals) is the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) chemical substances regulatory framework. Information on substances of very high concern contained in Shure products in a concentration above 0.1% weight over weight (w/w) is available upon request.