Shure SM7b vs Rode NT1 Comparison (Versus Series)

[@cubematrixstudio7605]

I liked the rotating the mics thing... it really helps to hear how much isolation the mics have. This is something most low to mid range users with less-than-optimal room sound-treatment can truly appreciate.

[@samuel14674]

I'm a music producer and I have the NT-1 and let me assure you, it is fantastic for guitar, guitar amps, vocals, and really anything your throw at it. I highly recommend it and believe every studio should have at least one.

[@iamiupa]

On the other hand SM7-B on bass reamp... Every studio should have one of those as well

[@D9K·̊0850]

@@iamiupa nah the smb7 is jus trash 💀 stop hyping up garage to validate ur loss in not buying a good mic like the nt1

[@kompst_tu]

​@@iamiupaWhy add more bass to something that already has a ton of bass by default?

[@amibis6013]

@@D9K·̊0850 are you crazy. The SM7B captures all of your vocals without noise and background noise. Nt1 will capture your neighboors intercourse in your vocals

[@eZstah]

Based on your review got NT-1 like year ago. love it.

[@senushkabatawala5563]

Its cheaper even the NT1

[@Nathansomething]

Same

[@dmitriymyzichenko2697]

абалдемон, езтаг, как ты там дружище?

[@markovvii]

о, здарова

[@4Dcruz]

your voice sounds great on the SM7B

[@larryhinze8658]

Nice with the Shure...don't need a sound proof room.

[@FernandoBorea]

I just bought an NT1 and I for some reason screamed "hell yeah" when I saw the winner 😂😂

[@Podcastage]

You're taking pride in your microphone. =) Nothing wrong with that.

[@victorhugod387]

In the very first test I realize that "my NT1" would win...

[@fanpandatastic]

@Surrounded byCowards the hell are you even saying

[@Boughty25]

Hahaha same dude, I fist pumped!!!

[@DevGambit]

I used both shure all the way

[@JulianKrause]

Nice, I was always interested how these two particular mics would compare. Really dig the Keyboard test! I think you can clearly hear that the SM7B attenuates off-axis high frequencies much more than the NT1. Thanks for doing this!

[@sirdurex5581]

bro, the backgroundnoises are nowadays not much of a problem, since almost everything is mixed digital and also many of new mixers have built in gates (software). i stream on twitch and play a lot of games and like i said with nowadays mixers not a single person heared my typing =) if you record professional vocals u wont have any keyboard or typing guy in the same room as the singer anyway =)

[@Facuuu__2023]

@@sirdurex5581 Try recording in an untreated room and you'll see the importance

[@khamasito]

@@Facuuu__2023 i have a NT-USB mini in a veranda, the walls are glass and theres a lot of noise coming from the outside, with digital filters I can record with next to 0 background noise

[@curtisjudd]

I agree with your conclusion. Thanks for the comparison!

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much Curtis.

[@Red.exe7]

I think the Shure SM7b is a bit better for spoken word. The RODE NT1 is a bit sibilant and I found it a tad harsh after listening to your voice for awhile. The Shure SM7B had a nice warm tone to it and I could probably listen to for a greater length of time.

[@heythere6983]

fact is noone in terms of singers are really living off of a mic like the shure, Warmer always sounds better on its own, mids always cut better in a mix, dark mics will always need to be edited to fit better, meaning they will be made to sound brighter.

[@ZachariahConnor]

@@heythere6983 Michael Jackson used a SM7 on thriller

[@nomissimo]

​@@heythere6983 That's not true at all I'm afraid. The Shure SM7B is used a lot in professional studios. Whereas chances are, you won't find the NT1 much. The reason is simple: The Shure offers a sound that is hard to achieve with another microphone. Whereas there are better microphones than the NT1 to achieve the same type of sound. Additionally to that: microphones are chosen for every singer and song individually. One microphone might work great for a given singer on a given song and sound complete garbage for another singer or another song. Don't get me wrong though: the NT1 is still a decent mic - it's just not good enough for professional usage because there are better altenatives.

[@TVperson1]

I think that's to do with the Shure being dynamic. And the Rode seems to attenuate the higher frequencies.

[@Ben59910]

@@ZachariahConnor didn't he use a sm57?

[@danboud8135]

Your original NT1 review was the decider for me pulling the trigger and getting the Rode. Couldn't be happier with the mic!

[@TerryWyce]

Great review! I own both, and I agree with you they both have very subtle characteristics that make them both outstanding microphones just depends on the room you’re using them in!

[@vewilli]

I‘ve got the Rode and I‘m absolutely satisfied with it!

[@deondretyreebeats]

I just purchased a NT1 last night. One of the best musical decisions I made in my life. I love it and your advice helped me decide. Thanks 💯

[@13thAMG]

RODE is originally an Australian company and always a great choice. I remember working in a production showroom in Brisbane when they first hit the scene and I sold a few. I have a few RODE units and they are reliable. They seem to have made their space in the video world for camera mics. Thanks for the A B vid. Nice to see some genuine audio heads are still out there.

[@kons1660]

13thAMG i think it’s danish tho

[@John-mj1kk]

@@kons1660 Australian

[@15sixmedia]

@@kons1660 Australian, based in Silverwater in western Sydney.

[@ylevision7088]

@@15sixmedia But since it's written "RØDE", how is it pronounced? It seems that english speakers tend to do their own thing with their *laaaooong* *vaaaooowels.* In Norway where I live, I think it's generally pronounced with the "Ø"-sound, which would equate to something like "uuuh" in english.

[@VamsiMohanKrishnaVadrevu]

for music Rode NT1. For speaking and voiceovers -- Shure SM7b

[@iancorzine]

Good comparison!

[@Podcastage]

Thank you very much Ian. I really appreciate that.

[@Kenoji8]

Thanks to your videos, I finally ordered an NT1....at an absolutely INSANE deal with an XLR cable, stand, and all the fixings, minus an interface. Very awesome stuff. And thank you for all of your videos and expertise. I guess I've always been an audio person, but I've learned a lot thanks to your videos.

[@Searxiny]

I know I’m 2 years late, but is an interface needed for the nt1? I don’t want to spend the extra money if it’s not required 😅

[@res6148]

@@Searxiny im probably late but it is needed as the NT1 requires an XLR cable which you will have to connect from your microphone to your interface and then connect that to your device.

[@Searxiny]

@@res6148 Nope, your comment was perfectly in time! Thank you so much :)

[@user-wb1ox8jm8o]

Absolutely SM7B. This rode sounds without weight, cheap and too brilliant on top. Low end and smoothness of shure, for me are better!

[@CYMotorsport]

Marco M really good description of what I couldn’t figure out how to eloquently say. Thanks for the comment I thought I was going crazy not being able to find the words of why I liked the SM7 more

[@sirdurex5581]

some ppl like their voice to sound natural and not bassy.. this kind of stuff you do anyway in mastering a song.... if u want it for conversations or podcasts just use the EQ lmao everyone does it anyway :D :D just talk to them in real life and then via mic... you will see that almost EVERYONE is boosting their low frequency for a warmer sound ( ofc not all women). over 100$ for that bit of "colour" which is not natural isn't worth it. thats my opinnion =)

[@Ershatz8]

This video came out right after I brought my NT1. Would have made my choice between the two a whole lot easier, but it's made me second guess my decision less since I've seen it! Thanks!

[@BlàckÐèàth]

I personally prefer the NT1 myself, it sounds brighter or clearer to me on the top end. The SM7b does handle the background noise better but doesn't have that bright end. For me, having a deep voice to begin with, I feel the Rode would compliment me better adding to my voice and not amplifying what I already have. As always thanks for taking the time!

[@enapsempire4151]

Have you heard of something called an EQ ?

[@amibis6013]

@@enapsempire4151 EQ is good only for removing harsh freq. Fresh air is the best plugin for adding the bright end to your vocals

[@guitarmax99]

Very helpful. This really a neat comparison that highlights the differences between dynamic mics and a condenser mics in general. The SM7b is a classic of course - there is a reason it is one of the industry standard mics used for broadcasting. The NT1 is much more suited for studio situations. I prefer the detail of the condenser (NT1) on acoustic guitar, but I actually prefer the SM7b on the guitar amp (it's smoother and I know that will work better in a mix). As for the vocal, it's a tossup. Sometimes you want the detail of the condenser, and sometimes you want the vintage top end of a dynamic. The off axis and rear rejection tests were very telling - The SM7b is much better in this regard. One thing that folks should be mindful of is that the SM7b has a VERY LOW output (as do other similar dynamic mics like the EV RE20 and the Rode Procaster). Getting a good level can be challenging if you don't have a Cloudlifter (or a quality mic preamp) and cranking the signal up in post can often bring up the noise level of low level preamps. This translates into significant "hiss" if you are using inexpensive gear. The Rode NT1 will not have this issue because the output level is so much hotter.

[@heythere6983]

darker sounding guitar will get lost in the mix not stand out, guitar is a mid heavy instrument, it will nullify its natural characteristics

[@davidvicars6688]

Well to be fair, not just NT1 can do a good review like this, but you Shure did. thumbs up dude

[@profoundpro]

underrated

[@JOHNYCRAFT79]

Highly underrated 👏🏽

[@danieliselectronic]

This is such a descriptive, useful, and efficient (!!!) video! Thank you! I used the 7B for my vocals on an EP and loved it (the engineer chose it and I lucked out!). Thinking of getting one for myself but this gives me some food for thought.

[@Podcastage]

Daniel, thanks for the kind words. The 7b has a smoother warmer sound than the NT1. Depends on the sound you'd want for your recording though.

[@ketzbook]

hmm, I think the sm7b sounded better overall. Without considering cost and other equipment requirements, it sounds better to me.

[@focaalexandr7536]

i hate that dark muddy sm7b sound for me nt1 better

[@focaalexandr7536]

@Billie Joe yeah u right, but I really don't enjoy sm7b, for me it unpleasant. Everyone have they're own taste, and own ears

[@ketzbook]

@ProfiloBianco lol

[@TreXsJournal-Coming-Soon]

One mic will sound better on one singer, while the other will sound better on another singer. The sm7b however, pisses me off. It reduces way to much sound.

[@sirdurex5581]

i've got the nt-1 from my bestie 2 years ago as a birthdaygift... i absolutely love it. SERIOUSLY in almost EVERY conversation i get so much compliments about the quality its insane but after a time u get freakin bored cause u have to tell almost everybody what mic you are using, what kind of music i make etc etc.. guys i don't have that sm7b as reference but seriously after getting so much postive feedback i am even not interessted in testing it myslef. thanks for this nice comparison @podcastage it takes a lot of time to make such detailed reviews and i appreciate that, you just showed me that i have the mic i wanted

[@timyonce]

I am parcial to the SM7B my self, but both are very excellent microphones.

[@TheMatrixxandRhodesShow]

The SM7B sounds amazing.

[@XRayTube]

I am predicting he will choose Shure Damn dude you surprised me!😱

[@Podcastage]

I know. However, being that I mainly do podcasts, I’m still reaching for the sm7b 99/100 times for that use case.

[@jgvtc559]

@@Podcastage i have the sm7b and the 6i6 im gettin the dbx580 and triton fethead for rap vocal

[@kirylskvarnik-wells4794]

Oh boy you shure were wrong

[@jaybeeess]

Kiryl Skvarnik - Wells 👏👏👏👏👏

[@liljons6753]

@@Podcastage after your review on a mic , dovyou ebay the ones you dont need?

[@ShadovvV]

This microphone "comparison" isn't logical because the SM7b is a Dynamic and the NT1 is a Condenser. Truth is, ALL condensers will have problems at loud volumes, whereas dynamics do not. That's why a lot of metal bands use dynamic mics, namely the SM7b. So if somebody wanted something closer to a SM7b, then they should just logically look at other dynamic microphones. It's almost as if you didn't even acknowledge this, since at the end of your video you even said @6:12 "They just have very different character". Duh?

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

I personally use the Shure SM7B for my voice-overs (training and podcasts) as it adds more richness and depth to my voice. I found that other mics make me sound to nasal and high pitched and annoying, to my ear anyway. Thanks for the comparison. My recording setup is the Shure SM7B, with a Cloud CL-1 Activator and a Focusrite Scarlett Solo Gen2 .

[@Excaidus-Metal]

I agree with your decision. I think eventually I will end up maybe getting both of these mics, but I am getting the Rode first.

[@kieranarmstrongproductions4743]

idk if you got it yet but I've had it for a year. Choose your preamp carefully, 2i2 and tascam are good for a low price. Also, it can be too quiet at times, but the quality is CRISPY

[@Crowbar11115]

That was a great and very fair comparison! Thanks for taking the time to do that. I use the NT1 for VO clients that want a "Masculine" sound. The richness in the bass is really impressive. I have a deep voice as is but this mic adds some really beefy low end without it getting boomy. My Russian clients LOVE this mic for that extra deep tonality...those cats are super particular about bass. Haha.

[@justiceconquers1188]

would you suggest the rode for those with deeper jazz like voices?

[@DarkPa1adin]

Finally! Versus series is back!

[@christopherhayward2416]

This is literally the video I needed! I do agree with what you have said in the video, and I have been struggling between both of them for so long😂

[@zetamale]

I think the grass is always greener... I have an nt1 but would love the sm7b for podcast situations. The NT1 has lots of clarity but I find it to be too bright at times. The Sure seems to be more forgiving and is very popular with the podcasters I listen to. Great video. Many thanks.

[@i-use-arch-btw3954]

Top 10 anime battles

[@polydivision]

Best comparison videos. Thankyou for the hard A/B cuts and for the pacing of this. Great information delivered fast. Much appreciated.

[@paulcantshutup]

I absolutely adore the SM7b; it gets the job done right, every single time. The built-in pop filter, yoke mount, and generally indestructible quality it brings is just amazing. It's been a standard in radio broadcasting for a reason. But the NT1! The NT1 has such a clean sound; similarly, it comes in a kit with a decent pop filter and shockmount. Although it's not as durable, there's little arguing that it presents the better value for the money. EXTREMELY quiet, doesn't require a ridiculously beefy preamp to run... The ONLY problem is that the SM7b, by virtue of being a dynamic, requires a lot of gain. BUT! That same quality helps reduce background sounds. Having said that, if you had to get only one, I'd have to suggest the NT1; it's just a better bargain.

[@matdemaz]

The Rode NT1 is still phenomenal-sounding. Been using mine for a year now since I got rid of my NT1-A that I had since 2011. It's honestly the best microphone I've owned. It can record pretty much anything, and the flat sound makes it versatile and easy to work with in post. It can't be beat for the price. Though, the Shure is no slouch. There's a reason people in the industry chose to use it. It's really good at rock/metal vocals, because it's dynamic. It can take loud noises well. Though, I've used the Rode for such things, and it coped pretty well. It really does depend on your setup, but I'd use a Shure for loud vocals.

[@paulkent642]

Having run a pro studio for 10 years, I can say that in shootouts the Sm7b gets picked regularly in mic shootouts. It's particularly good on male vocals, rap vocals, brass. Anything that needs depth and punch. It even gets picked over high end condensers surprisingly often. The NT1 is a good enough mic (great for the price). But if you already have a half decent condenser you won't find yourself using it much, whereas the Sm7b will see use.

[@matatoto9805]

Your answer made no sense. The SM7B is way overpriced, while the NT1A is priced very accordingly.

[@paulkent642]

@@matatoto9805 what did you fail to understand in my fairly well laid out response. The SM7B is an exceptional mic, it holds up to EQ and compression well, it has character and depth (on the right source) meanwhile the NT1 is a relatively cheap mic that often sounds cheap in the mix. Only one of these mics ever got picked over a u87 or other incredibly expensive mics, and it wasn't the NT1. If you already have a decent condenser, you're better off with the SM7B (if you have a decent Preamp).

[@matatoto9805]

@@paulkent642 The problem with people like you (blind fans of the SM7B) is that they indiscriminately recommend the microphone over the rest, which is a huge mistake. A person with a high/semi-high voice tone will not see any benefit from using the SM7B compared to a microphone like the NT1 which has another profile that favors high frequencies more. A Procaster (dynamic) + Rode NT1 (condenser) are better picks than one SM7B (and cheaper too).

[@paulkent642]

@@matatoto9805 blind fan? If owning both microphones, putting them through their paces on 10 yrs of professional audio work (amongst a cabinet full of much more expensive microphones) is blind... Then I'm stevie wonder. You obviously love the Rode NT1, that's fine, but these two mics are in different leagues and the price point reflects it. But trying to say my points are confusing and blind is purely a lack of substance on your part. I've said my piece, reply if you want to, I wont waste my time with you any more.

[@matatoto9805]

​@@paulkent642 Nah, I don't love the NT1. Once again, you're the fanatic here. Don't use my own words against me, be at least creative if you ran of arguments. Whatever experience you say you have with both microphones is irrelevant for being unverifiable to me. The price doesn't say anything here. We are not talking about a $4000 mic vs a $200 mic. Theres 200 of difference, and when you take uner consideratin that the price of the SM7B is due more to its popularity and good reputation, then it becomes negligible. Not everything is worth what comes out. The NT1 is precisely a better choice since it has an unbeatable price-quality ratio. The SM7B, on the other hand, does not in any way justify the extra money that must be invested for the little difference in its quality. If you want a quality that is really superior to that of an NT1 (I use it as an example only because it is the one mentioned in the video, but there are many more similar microphones that are much more recommended choices than the SM7B) you have to jump to another range or league of microphones, those that exceed the 1000, 2000 or 3000 price tag. I know it hurts, but the overpriced price of the SM7B is due more to its fame and popularity than its quality as a microphone itself.

[@JamieHitt]

Those two in a side-by-side is brutal. Such different methods exist for bringing out the best in each of them.

[@danmeme7740]

I can tell you, if you guys like the Neumann TLM-102 the NT1 is very very close in character to it. So close when mixed there is no way anyone could tell the difference.

[@DenisUspeshny]

bullshit. they are complete opposites.

[@danmeme7740]

No they are not. You must not know what you're listening to. I think you just have a TLM-102 and can't stand that a cheaper mic sounds similar. I can tell the NT1 was based off the 102.

[@raffaelrudolf]

True. I own the TLM 102 and NT1, and I usually record vocals with the NT1. I'm gonna sell the TLM 102 soon. It's just marketing, guys. Jeremy Zucker, Alex Aino etc. also record their songs with the NT1. I hate when ppl say that the NT1 is a good beginner mic- it's just as professional as the more expensive Neumann.

[@danmeme7740]

Yep, if they did a blind test they would not be able to tell the difference and might pick the NT1.

[@joeydinero9300]

Wow! That's good to know since I've bought the Nt1. It sounds amazing but is it me or is it harder to mix than say a Akg 120 or my Atr30 dynamic Mic from audio technica which to me sounds like the shure sm7b. I like the rode nt 1 but it seems harder to mix as it seems more sensitive. Definetly has more clarity though

[@electricbent5633]

Your reviews rate high in my book. You touch well on the things that really matter and, when looking at different reviews, I usually stop here, as I have found the information I need. Thank you.

[@metatronmen2431]

The Shure SM7B is now one of the most most popular dynamic microphones for vocalists everywhere. It all started when Quincy Jones and Bruce Swedien decided to use it for all of Michael's vocals throughout the album Thriller.

[@shaunabbott9236]

correct

[@DylanShayne]

Not too sure if you still reply to comments anymore Podcastage but thank you for this video. I asked for the Rode NT1 for Christmas and I love the mic so much. I hooked it up with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Generation USB Audio Interface and the quality is so clean and beautiful. Love your videos and always will. Have a blessed day/night bud!

[@Podcastage]

Glad it’s working out well. Have some fun with that setup.

[@multeemedia]

I am Using NT1A and absolutely agree. The background noise reduction can be a bit of struggle at times to tame though.

[@SibruOfficial]

The NT1A is very different from the NT1.

[@nomissimo]

Great comparison. I would suggest, to go for the NT1 and treat your room for the money saved on a very good preamp. A treated room will be the best upgrade to your sound and it will last - no matter the equipment.

[@Sov92]

I have not had the chance to mess with an sm7b yet. I can tell you at least in my recording environment and with my particular vocal range the electrovoice RE20 sounds fucking amazing. I like the NT1 and it has treated me well for the past couple years but and I can't stress this enough. You really need that sound-treated environment because the NT1 picks up everything in the whole damn house. If I raise my gain really high and bypass my processing stuff I can eavesdrop on neighbors.

[@scottsoriero9827]

Shure has been making mics since i believe, 1932 long before Rhode even existed. I believe 1967. I could be off. Great video by the way, and it still holds water today. I felt that the Rode mic sounded very tinny compared to a far richer and deeper sound by the Shure. They are both very good, but for me its the Shure and I don't own one yet. Thanks again.

[@olivertruswell]

Great review this has helped a lot! I was leaning towards the Shure SM7b but the NT1 is very appealing and under half the price.

[@andrewmasto716]

They both sound really good to me. I decided to pull the trigger on the NT1 for 2 main reasons. First, I don't want to crank the preamp on my cheap audio interface up all the way, and might have to with the SM7B, Second, the NT1 with a shock mount, 25 foot cable, and pop screen was $228 compared to $399 for a bare SM7B. In a professional studio that amount of money might not matter but it's a big consideration when you just want to record a little music at home. Thanks for the great review. Your videos are always well done, and more importantly, you address what really matters.

[@timothyeastman3448]

I honestly thought you'd pick the SM7b just because I know you're partial to it, but I like that you were able to explain why you chose the NT1 and what applications each are good for. A+ comparison and explanation

[@dirtytribemusic]

Both sound great but yeah the shure for sure because although it’s darker you can always brighten up the sound in post.

[@Karizma231]

Easier to dampen the sound then brighten, which can add noise

[@AnGhaeilge]

Shure sounds warmer and overall more pleasant to the ear. Especially with high quality headphones on, I can really hear it.

[@teunsegersofficial]

I like it more as well. I bought it last week 😁

[@andersmikkelsen1314]

I agree with you 100% - I do like the sound of the Shure on vocals, but i prefer to have liniarity and then do some post processing/EQ, so I got a Rode NT1. I have the NT1a too, and love it on acoustic guitar.

[@mosthatedpromotions4428]

I own both I prefer the Shure 7b it's worth buying a cloud lifter the frequency response is way more even the rode sounds harsh and thin and bitter I'm loving the Shure best mic I ever owned better then the nuemann 102 by far

[@ianrees3932]

This is a perfect comparison video. You got straight to the point and covered so much ground in only four minutes. Thank you so much.

[@NurseHowie]

This is the only singing review I’ve seen on YT so far. It was so nice I forgot to choose a mic 🎤 haha

[@EmeraldDeadEyeFlint]

Thank you for this. Little sister asked for advise on which one to buy, but I had not heard of either. Sending her this thorough comparison should suffice. My work here is done (for me by a more competent person).

[@ammonha]

SM7b is double the price where I'm from, so there's that.

[@ChampionGGs]

fax Im deciding between the procaster and the NT1 im going to use it for streaming

[@nebstaism]

Sm7b is double better

[@ChampionGGs]

nebstaism I went with a rode procaster

[@marles139]

@ProfiloBianco Why are you spamming these comments hating the 7B? You jealous you dont have one?

[@alisashamrow]

Thanks for this in depth review. What if you want to record yourself singing and playing acoustic guitar in an untreated room, but you tend to not always sing directly into the mic. For example, what if I want to look down at the guitar while singing? The SM7B softens your voice more if you're farther away...so would the NT1 be better for this scenario? Or would you position the SM7B at a distance to yourself and turn up the gain? Or would you have to fix the vocal volume differences in post-production? Thanks!

[@calebholcomb6174]

FINALLY! Thank you so much for posting this! I have been looking for this exact comparison all over the internet and i can assure you you are the first to do it. Well I think....

[@ReneSerna1021]

I've been watching almost all of your mic comparisons & I learned a lot on what mic should I use in a different scenario. Thank you & more power on your channel!

[@Flippy2good]

Having used both 7B is way smoother and even. Vocals sound way less harsh but way more powerful on 7B

[@Podcastage]

I too love the sm7b and it is still my go to podcast mic.

[@purnetm]

Thanks for the video. I've been using the NT 1A for a few years now. I mainly use it to record, acoustic guitars & voice. But I've been looking up on a more smoother and warm textured microphone for vocal recordings. So far I love everything about SM 7B!

[@Podcastage]

It really is one of the smoothest microphones I’ve ever used.

[@Hawk_112]

i think the Rode NT1 sounds better for me and i prefer brighter sound

[@DMRCapitalHill]

Hawk101 yes and it has great highs!

[@joeydinero9300]

Well I prefer a now 80$ Akg perception because it replicates sound waaay better. The rode Nt1 is good but sounds kinda muddy, too much mid and low end but it is very quite and has alot of clarity so it sits in the.mix somewhat better. I need a Se2200-Amy whine house used it. It sounds as good as a u87 f4om Nuemann! So many choices lol

[@DMRCapitalHill]

Joey Dinero yea but you can EQ that stuff to your liking

[@joeydinero9300]

@@DMRCapitalHill true to some degree.

[@BruhBroham2001]

@Billie Joe 100% agreed. I'll chalk it up to the simple fact that modern music is heavily bright vocal mix wise.

[@nobodyhaslogin]

Bandrew, you're crazy! Comparing dynamic and condenser! But you made it. Congratulations!

[@HumbugShow]

I use both. Sm7b when you need noise rejection, NT1 when I am recording at 3am and don't want to wake the house up. Both have a super similar sound and can be eq'd to be almost the same. Great video as always 😜 Oh and a dead cat on the NT1 helps noise rejection I find and let's you eat the mic.... I just realised I suggested that people eat dead cats..... So dark 🤣

[@DS-ff6ze]

the noise difference is only due to the fact that sm7b is more gain-hungry. nt1 can be just as good at noise rejection if the output level is matched to the sm7b's, and the sm7b can be just as noisy if its supplied enough gain

[@HumbugShow]

@@DS-ff6ze Still by nature of a condenser vs a dynamic, the SM7B is still better at noise rejection from an echo and a down the hall point of view. I get what you are saying and agree you can make the SM7B sensitive, they still have a difference due to capsule.

[@photowalk.podcast]

Since you know quite a lot about this microphone, can you answer me this question I left above too, just incase you have a slightly new and interesting approach to signal boost: Hi there.... I love the sound of both, but I'm going to be using mine in far less audio perfect places, so it needs to be the Shure... to go from the Shure into the Zoom H6 I have is a no no, since there is so much hiss, it being needed to be boosted. Question is what's the perfect thing to boost the level to get rid of that light hiss?

[@FakingANerve]

Definitely don't eat the live ones. They HATE it!

[@ZohondeKids]

@@photowalk.podcast Check out either a fethead, cloudlifter, durham, McBoost. Also Bandrew has a video comparing the first four against each other.

[@MusicaMercy]

I choose the Rode nt1, I like it the 4.5 db noise, this is very important for a clean recording sound.

[@Vertshark]

Because so few people have treated rooms or quiet environments, I think (for most people) dynamic microphones are the ones they should choose. Grab a Cloudlifter or Fethed along with a decent audio interface (both Behringer and Focusrite make some nice ones though stay away from Behringer's Xenyx pre-amps because they suck) and you're good to go.

[@darnellcaballes]

That’s why I went from a condenser mic to a dynamic mic... specifically to eliminate background noise, even though I think the my condenser mic at2020 sounds better (probably because of its brightness)

[@Vertshark]

@@darnellcaballes HA! That's a comment from a long time ago! Started using a Lewitt LCT-440 Pure and its background noise rejection is superb and still gives that rich condenser sound

[@StructiveINK]

3:51 Said "Rizz" before it was mainstream.

[@ferreiramario1979]

Amazing! now my fav is the Rode NT1! Nice job and THANKSSS !!!!!!

[@facksvillain2296]

The clarity for the shure, is supposed to be brought out in the eq/mixing phase. That's why it sounds more muddy, that mud sound is a good thing.

[@heisenbergwalter3363]

mud sound means that the mic is poor in high frequencies, not a good thing.

[@murraystechtime8530]

You surprised me, I thought you'd pick the SM7b as the winner. I liked the NT1 better, wow surprise...

[@ARRiiVE]

Murray's Tech Time the 7b was head and shoulders better,

[@murraystechtime8530]

@@ARRiiVE, that would be to your ears. Not mine and the SM7b is a great sounding microphone, but not this time!

[@Broadpaw_Fox]

This was a fun video. I've had an NT1 for about 7 years, but before I got it I did a bit of research. It seemed like the best bang for the buck for my intended use - and that's the key. What you intend to use it for matters. I really liked the openness and air the Condenser mic's tend to have, so I wasn't (and still am not) interested in buying a dynamic mic. The SM7b is a distinctive sound for sure, and appealing when it's appropriate, but the clarity and detail of a Condenser, and this Condenser in particular (NT1) allows more options. I mean, while you can EQ both mics, I feel that it would be easier to EQ the NT1 to sound closer to the SM7b than it would be to EQ the SM7b to sound similar to the Rode. And even then, I question if it would ever have the airy detailed sound that the Rode does so effortlessly. Bug again, it comes down to preference and intended use. I love my NT1. :) **edited for spelling**

[@iqcq2063]

He will feed his family with microphones and hell say "Chew your microphone"

[@AdamAarts]

Sitting On A Cornflake “This is me chewing the microphone so you can hear the eating effect on this thing”

[@ChadSterley]

I was shocked myself but you made the right call man. Think I’m going to pick one of these up pronto! 👌🏼

[@jrosasco]

I do not think this is a fair comparison. the Nt1 is a condenser, so it is inherently more sensitive. The Nt1 may even be damaged at high SPL, like a driven guitar cab. I do not want to discredit your results or opinion here. I think all the tests were cool and spot on. I know your opinion varies from mine, or another pro out there. But if the only qualifier to the whole test is "comparing my two favorite mics," then you did it. haha. Great video and content.

[@Podcastage]

Joe. I understand it’s not a real direct comparison. It’s just a request I got so much that I gave in and did it. The outcome really is that for the majority of people the NT1 will be better. The sm7b is an amazing mic (and still my go to), but it takes a powerful preamp and can be finicky. The 7b has been and will remain my all time favorite mic.

[@jordanpermenter5364]

@@Podcastage Just grab a cloudlifter and it cant be beat in the price range.

[@joshuareveles]

@@jordanpermenter5364 true, but then you're spending even more money just to get the mic to perform at its best. For most people, the nt1 is just a better option

[@nick_g]

you're right. although I think there's a studio vs home dimension to this. for studio, the NT1 is the accuracy you'd want and then everything else can get handled in post. for the home though, the sm7b gets it done.

[@thenerdyviking]

Best song yet just saying. Epic review though keep up the awesome videos. My two recent mic purchases were decided by your in depth reviews.

[@nickmendoza2393]

My two favorite mics! I finally found someone that did a comparison in great detail! 😍 I know what I want now

[@iqcq2063]

What a neweer bm800 hahahhahahahahahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahaha

[@photorooster8865]

Great review. I have a plethora of side condenser mics so I'll prolly go for the sm7b with an inline preamp if for no other reason the noise rejection. Thanks!

[@nenecobarrubia5356]

You are my idol in the microphone reviews!

[@ThisIsBoxingTalkwithMrWhite]

How about the SM7B minus the wind sheild though ? I imagine the clarity of thr NT1 will be reduced with same treatment 😎

[@jefgirdler7232]

Even though I prefer the sound of the Shure, I have to agree with your assessment. Both winners, though. Can't really go wrong with either.

[@theworshipbunker]

Man!!! That guitar tone is epic!!! I don't know what you're all running through or what pickups you swapped out, but it sounds dope!!!

[@drewg3087]

Sounds rad!

[@markallen5839]

I got the SM7b as my room is untreated and mics often pick up bird noise etc from outside (nice, but not always wanted). I also feel like the Shure mics are more rugged and more likely to outlast me. I have used an SM58 beta for gigs for decades as well as SM57 for an instrument mic; both have performed flawlessly.

[@Dalek22comments]

SM7b lacks clarity in comparison to the NT1.

[@Aledan98]

Yep, but in general the condenser microphones are much clearer and more detailed than dynamic ones, they have not the same purposes.

[@dotsunmoon7122]

Love how much warmer the Shure is on vocals.

[@danmagoo]

Great to know your thoughts on a really good condenser mic, and to hear your comparisons to a really good dynamic mic. For vocals I'd come down on the side of the SM7B, both for the tone (as you described) and because, apart from background noise like keyboard, the NT1 definitely has more issues with plosives (even with the fancy windscreen) and breathing noises, which are normal enough but still a distraction. If I wanted to get a good condenser mic, I would go with your choice of the NT1.

[@vicevercetti1986]

I've had the NT-1 for almost a year and I've got nothing but good things to say about it.

[@JoseLC82]

Well....that’s the reason why the shure is used by Metallica, shakira, Michael jackson, Ed sheeran... and the nt 1 is used by you, me..etc

[@antoniomonteiro1203]

The NT1 was not "born" by the time Michael Jackson recorded. Otherwise, we can not be sure the rec engineer wouldn't have picked it instead. These kind of arguments, although with some weight, are not scientific, so I tend to dismiss them. This video goes the right way.

[@beatsbythegenesis3879]

@@antoniomonteiro1203 Pretty sure the the NT1 was out 12 years before MJ died.

[@SousouEnVideo]

@@beatsbythegenesis3879 the nt1 is very recent the nt1-a probably was

[@Alcordor]

Big studios use expensive microphones just because all their stuff is expensive. If you or unknown people go there would use these things and not the cheapest ones even if these could works better aren't tested.

[@devdnsyd8875]

With the warm and smooth tone of the of the sm7b, and the clarity and presence of the NT1, would be be good recording vocals together?

[@mr_sn4k3s]

NT1 sounds so much better than the SM7b for music it's insane. Though it's more of a podcaster's microphone, getting that quality with that noise rejection on top is one of the reasons you see this microphone everywhere.

[@joeydinero9300]

Good and accurate analysis

[@RichardCowdrey]

Really well done comparison. I find comparison efforts, like this one, that mimic the way you A-B changes to a track in a studio to be most effective.

[@David_Logr]

Hello Podcastage! I want you to review Røde NT2-A. Thank you!

[@jazmineyazmin]

I have the SM7B if you remove the windscreen it has a lot more clarity and it really “opens it up” (it reminds me of a more neutral SM57, I have this microphone too) and you can put it back on for when you want/need that dark coloration. It comes with a thicker windshield if you’re dealing with a p-popper. The SM7B is a professional quality mic so is the 57. You can’t go wrong with either.

[@jabalajabolindest4852]

Hey guys, I can hear strong spike at 3 khz on my NT1, which makes the sound so brittle. Is it only me?

[@iqcq2063]

Not SHURE cant aford it

[@geoffball9591]

Is it an NT1 or an NT1-A? The NT1 is supposed to be very flat and the NT1-A has a presence boost built in.

[@pinnyskenis]

THANKS SO MUCH!!! I was planning to get the NT1 or NT1A anyways but now that you say it's better than the Shure SM7B, I can't resist buying it. I got the budget and I'll be happy when it comes!

[@stevefreegard6406]

Love my NT1 - such a great mic for the money. I'd love to see you compare it to the RE20.

[@martialbodiestv5041]

Thank you so much for this comparison. You really helped me make my decision as to the mic I want to buy for the podcast: SM7b.