SM7B vs SM58 Mic SHOWDOWN

Updated version of video now available looking at how to physically change an SM58 to an SM7B! - • Turn Your SM58 Into an...
Timestamps
00:00 Intro
2:04 Technical differences with Dylan Lalonde
9:22 Sound comparisons with Aiden
My Patreon - www.patreon.com/user?u=28535375
The SM7B and the SM58 are known as two of the best mics for their jobs...respectively.
But generally the SM7B is considered the better mic, despite having almost exactly the same guts.
So which is better?
Are they that much different?
Dylan's Channel - / @dylanlalondemusic
US Links -
Buy the Shure SM7B - amzn.to/334Jneh
Buy the Shure SM58 - amzn.to/3i8tg3I
Canada Links -
Shure SM58 - amzn.to/3nF2VOM
Shure SM7B - amzn.to/30UMaVZ
UK Links -
Shure SM58 - amzn.to/3iTuG2r
Shure SM7B - amzn.to/3jUyNfR
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Gear -
Mic - RODE NT2A - amzn.to/2WWQTnn
Mixer - Presonus Studiolive AR8 - amzn.to/2Z9s2PM
Secondary Boom Arm - amzn.to/2WBhveB
Camera - Canon T7i - amzn.to/2X3yTYi
Lenses - Canon 50mm 1.8 - amzn.to/2LxiI0k
Canon 24mm 2.8 - amzn.to/2zF96Ok

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Check out the latest video where I actually CHANGE an SM58 INTO an SM7B!!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qImzeXqoh8R9d5o

[@ryansecor]

I think this video just convinced me to stick with my sm58 and spend $400 on something else. Thanks!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Glad I can help!!... Thanks for watching!!!

[@darnellcaballes]

ditto. I was gonna go the 2i2+cl+sm7b... but this vid convinced me to go 4i4+sm58, and save a $300. thx for the vid.

[@pasoundman]

Have you considered a brand other than Shure ? It makes a difference you know. If you like the '58 a lot, can I also suggest the '48. It too drops the transformer, looks like a '58, has a smoother response like the '7B and costs less than either. There are some wicked finds to be found in some less expensive microphones made by the usual suspects. There's no advantage you see in them making a bad capsule just to fit in their less expensive offerings, so you may find a gem using a capsule used in the better mikes in a different package. AKG has or had plenty of examples of this.

[@rvs8465]

I'm sort of sad to say I'm with ya

[@tomorrowsendpodcast7228]

From my studio change from garbage china copies of SM58's to more "expensive mics" (I was dumb and went to condensers, the worst mic type for small room podcasting) I'm going back to the SM58's they just sound better, they also reject room noise and reflections better, at way lower cost. (Mine were $19 each new and sound identical to the real SM58's I own)

[@ForestOfSleep]

The SM7B seems like massive overkill for what a lot of people use it for.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...there is a LOT of status involved with the mic. That being said...there is a reason it has been used as the main mic on pop songs for years. It is a great mic. Perhaps just not necessary for everyone

[@dylanlalondemusic]

Absolutely. It’s a gorgeous mic but if you know how to use a mic properly, many less costly options will also suffice just fine.

[@abnormallynormal8823]

Dylan Lalonde an sm57 with an a81 windscreen and a fethead will do almost the same thing as an sm7b. Throw the a55 shock mount on it for good measure.

[@Zarabozo]

@@DarkCornerStudios Dude, it has *not* been used as the main mic on pop songs. Not even close. It's heavily used for rap and some times used for other genres where it suits the singer's voice, but the main choice in recording studios for singers has been a condenser microphone like the AKG C12 or the Neumann U87 for many, many decades. Now, the SM7B it has been one of the most used microphones for everything voice-over related (commercials, radio, etc.), and yes, there's a good reason for that.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@Zarabozo Dude...it is well documented. Google is easy... Thanks for watching though......

[@tahirsanli]

super interesting video. thanks for this. was thinking of getting an SM58 and you helped me consolidate my opinion.

[@siewkimng1085]

Sticking with my SM58 too lol. Thanks for the video!

[@HippySpeedballPodcast]

Yes! I use SM58 mics on my podcast and it works amazing. I wish I could use condensers but I don't have a treated room at the moment. But the SM58 is great for a podcast with the proximity effect it has as well as it's ability to both pick up quiet voices and not be blown out when people laugh, get loud, etc. And they're amazing for travel if you take your podcast to other locations. Great video, man!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks!!

[@BizantyjskiBorsuk]

Nice one I was thinking to have dynamic mic and was looking at SM58 before man what a great vid!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching!!

[@RavenWednesday]

This is an Excellent video , can’t wait to purchase the SM58

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching!!

[@crooker2]

I would love for you to do that same test with pop filtering on the 58. The 58 surprised me.

[@suckmyduck7029]

I think it would have been far, far harder to tell if you used a pop filer in the sm58 as the pre-built pop filter in the 7B gave away which was which pretty quickly

[@CrustaceousB]

I haven't gotten 2 minutes through the video and I desperately feel the need to compliment your voice. Holy shit it's perfect! Not too deep or gnarly but not nasely or high. Just a nice balance. Sorry for that, I'm weird and appreciate smooth voices alot. Lol

[@DarkCornerStudios]

That is the sweetest compliment I have ever gotten. Thanks for that and thank you for listening!

[@sdhynes]

Lovely video. Very entertaining and well done!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@jimdown9061]

In my experience the SM7B picks up less unwanted background noise than the SM58. That’s why it’s such a popular choice for podcasts and radio. I use it for vocals in my home studio because my apartment walls are thin and I sometimes get some background street noise. The SM7B does a great job not picking those sounds up and gives me cleaner and clearer results off the bat, so less need for editing and eq. The SM58 is a great rugged mic for using live, you can drop it, accidentally hit it with a drumstick if you’re mic’ing your snare, and it keeps on chugging. Those extra background frequencies are less of worry when you’re playing in a club and there’s tons of spill on all the mics. They’re both fantastic and legendary mics, but it’s all about knowing how they respond in different situations, and using the right mic for the right job.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...the low pickup on the SM7B is sometimes a blessing

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks for watching!!

[@AngelMartinez7_]

Que tal el ruido fantasma?

[@Greg-tj8rg]

I guessed B was the sm7b at first listen just because of the volume difference. I would love to see a rematch where you have the sm7b and sm58 mic element at a similar ~2" distance and a pop filter in front of the sm58. Thank you for the great video. Liked and subscribed

[@elginfans]

great commentary my friend, very informative! thank you.

[@mauriciozani4655]

Amazing comparison!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks! I have the second part coming up Monday...Showing how to mechanically turn an SM58 into an SM7B Gonna be cool!

[@farmaseutti]

I love my SM7B and I didn't test any others but the sound comes from there is just beautiful and I love it , no regrets

[@DarkCornerStudios]

It is a great mic for sure!!

[@mbwilding]

@@DarkCornerStudios For Shure

[@stestetsonmusic]

SM58 or 57 with a pop filter are great for vocal production especially at home studios because there is usually noise around a home or from neighbours which a condensor would pic up. Dynamic mics will still pick things up but not nearly as much so if your making music at home then this could be a great tool

[@joeloesch1219]

Excellent detail in your teaching. Thanks much

[@marshpw]

Both are great. To me it was very obvious which was which. But fun to see a comparison and a great explination. Thanks!

[@tomvice]

SM58 is A, you could hear the proximity effect (more low end) when you got closer

[@juteparadisechillmusic345]

You could hear it and I liked it. I didn’t like the popping but the low end was noice

[@openofficeguru287]

I wish he had tested them with the capsules at the same distance from his face. I could totally tell when it was the 58 because of sibilance but I'm wondering if just making sure the capsule of the 58 is the same distance as the 7b guard provides will give you a similar sound.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Stay tuned...an updated video to follow. Btw the differential in capsules is about an inch...

[@siramcoalter8175]

Thanks to this and other similarly helpful videos I saved 300 on the mic and got a better audio mixer. Don't feel like I'll be sacrificing quality either. Thanks!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Amazing! The interface is rather important. Thanks for watching!!

[@MichaelWilliams-lo3ix]

Great review

[@jlwagner79]

This is a most excellent explanation!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

This is my favourite response. We need to start saying most excellent more often!! Thanks for watching

[@MaitreduMal]

thx for the infos, I'll take the NT2A you are using instead ^^

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...I love this mic... Pretty decent display for the difference between condenser and dynamics Cheers and thanks for watching.

[@peterk5124]

Only audible difference on mic B was less plosives (SM7B). Difference in tone between the two mics is hardly discernible. Get a standard studio pop filter ($15) and use the SM58.

[@chokzholics]

no

[@grimecube]

When I got my SM58 some 5 years ago, I was a bit bothered by the pops, so I just pulled a sock over it while I'd look for a filter. I still haven't bought one lol.

[@3Vizo]

@@grimecube link me the sock😅

[@stevelunavich4257]

Great vid mate! Funny, I’ve performed for years on stage with the SM58 and SM57 and never really stopped to find out what makes them tick. You guys certainly showed that here. The SM58 is my favourite mic ever because it’s so reliable. It’s rugged, no nonsense, and affordable. It just turns up everyday and gets the job done with quality results. So whilst I’ve been pondering the idea of getting more expensive mics for podcasts and so forth, you’ve really shown I don’t have to. Thanks heaps! Peace ✌🏽

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers! The SM58 is a beast. Thanks for watching!

[@jlebreton]

Wow, I never thought these 2 mics had the same capsule. They sound the same except for the popping on the 58, and for good reasons. Thank you for this demonstration!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers! Part 2 of this video is out Monday

[@JamieClark]

Never mind pop filter, you had the tip of the wind screens lined up, but that brings the element of the 58 about 2” closer - maybe if the elements were lined up, there would be even less difference? Maybe that’s the magic, add some extra gain and stay out of the proximity boom-space? Wish I had an sm7b at home to test like that...

[@dylanlalondemusic]

The element of the SM7B is significantly further away from the business end of the housing which really helps to eliminate the proximity boom even when you’re right on it eating the mic. So yeah if that was accounted for on the AB test by moving the 58 back by a bit, it likely would have helped shift the 58’s tone a bit more realistically for the experiment.

[@ollie-d]

I love the SM58 due to its versatility. It's my go to mic for vocal recordings and I also use it as my snareside mic with the filter off (although an SM57 is better for this). My bandmates swear by the SM7B and we used it as our vocal mic for recording and gigging primarily, but when we've forgotten it the SM58 always works and sounds great

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks for watching!

[@jlgonthebeat3080]

I can agree on this. I have been looking for a good microphone that can handle louder vocals and I just can’t bring myself to spend $400 when the sm57 and sm58 are barely any different. Stick a pop filter on them and you basically have the same microphone. I will most likely end up getting the sm58

[@MrAvaraa]

Much love. This was a super excellent video. Going with my Shure beta 58a which I understand is just a slightly evolved and broader mic compared to its older sibling.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Beautiful...glad we could help. Cheers and thanks for watching!

[@feuras]

Sm58 owner shopping for a Sm7. Awesome video, very useful, thanks!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Check out the updated version of it...where I actually turn an sm58 INTO an SM7B

[@jonathanvenegas7543]

I could tell A was the 58 before I even heard the 7b. The low end is much smoother and resonant on the 7b, and the 58 has tons of plosives, and a sharper presence at 6k. It’s also grainier because of the transformer. I use these mics professionally, and if you’re doing some serious studio work, it’s a no brained to always grab the 7b over the 58.

[@urbnctrl]

Impressive you can hear 6k off the top! Just kidding ofcourse you are right, for the highest production quality the 7b is the clear winner. But I wouldn't say 300€ worth more for most use cases. That being said there is a difference for a reason and each use case needs different solutions.

[@jonathanvenegas7543]

@@urbnctrl agreed. It depends how often you’re going to use it. If you’re using the mics everyday, 300 isn’t much when you consider the many years of potential use you’ll get from it.

[@ccc369]

My listeners prefer the SM58 over all my other mics so I now use it almost exclusively - I use the A58WS foam windscreen on the mic and there are no plosives. Basically it sounds almost like the SM7B before EQ and you can make it sound the same with a bit of EQ.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

There is a reason the sm58 is considered one of the most reliable mics

[@matthiasbernold2075]

nice video. very well explained. thanks a lot.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!

[@mryechkin]

That was super informative and a great comparison! Had no idea they are so close in sound quality (at least, given the price difference). I feel like with a pop filter the difference in sound quality to an average listener would be almost indistinguishable

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Check out the latest video I did on them...its even closer!

[@thane_snipes]

Could tell them apart even without the 58's heightened plosives, but they weren't all that different. The 58 was a little sharper in the high mids/treble region, but to my ears they both sounded a bit woolly/muddy on your voice. I understand why the SM7B is so popular, but I think a lot of people (mainly streamers on twitch) choose it for its looks rather than an evaluation of what sounds best for the money. If you wanted a nice audio setup for streaming on a budget, a 57 with the A81 WS windscreen might be all you ever need. Other than that, I think multi-pattern condenser mics are underrated. If you know how to place the mic, the figure of 8 pattern is a godsend for rejecting unwanted noises. Cheers and thanks for the video!

[@raydandy4899]

Excellent video. I have several SM 58 mics and one SM57 and I do see the SM7B in use a lot and had no idea they had the same capsule. The slight advantage of the SM7B mics physical packaging doesn't make it worth $300 more than a good old SM58. I have played pro and semi pro doing weekly gigs since the mid 70's and still have the same SM58 that I bought used around 1975. It's been beaten and abused (not on purpose) and has survived numerous extended road trips over the years. I have changed the ball head on it several times but other than that I can't say anything negative about the SM58. It's reputation as the worlds best on stage vocal mic is still in tact. The SM7B looks great but too much of a difference in price for the same sound in a prettier package. Get an SM58 and a pop screen and you are good to go. Spent that extra $300 on upgrading other equipment.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers!! Also...thanks for watching!!

[@totallykoolyeah]

It's not more metal.. it HAS more metal Cheers

[@joelaber6979]

Very well-done and informative vid!! I use an SM58 for my vids and a KSM27 for my radio show and commercial recordings. I have also used the SM7B in many radio studios and I love it!! It's my DREAM mic!! :)

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Nice lil setup! Thanks for watching!!

[@pklosterman73]

EXCELLENT video. Thank you.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks Paul...thanks for watching!

[@3158mit]

Yup, sticking with my ol' SM58. Peace

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@ScottWinters]

Great comparison. I have seen so many reviews about the holy grail SM7B. For me i think the 58 would be my go to based solely on price point. i do like the look of the 7B, but the price is outta range for most people, like me starting out. I still use my XM8500's and just recently purchased the podmic, i use both with great results. I would definitely go with the 58 and and use the rest of my money for other equipment. Also, had you used a foam screen on the 58 the giveaway would not have been as obvious because they are very similar audio characteristics. Cool video my friend have a great day.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks Scott. I couldnt find the foam for the video...kinda gave it away...but yeah. It is tough to tell, and in a podcast environment, it would be literally impossible to tell. Thanks for watching!!

[@PhotoShap]

Just the video I was looking for so thank you very much. I’d love to see a follow up with a sunscreen on the sm58 to test with plosive control.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...I have another video coming up soon...stay tuned for that

[@privaesea6046]

That was great, thank you so much.

[@Musiquedecor]

I have the SM58 from my band days, and I still use it for streaming

[@DarkCornerStudios]

That mic is a beast! Thanks for watching!

[@ray.deathray]

Same here. My SM58 got a lot of use in my musician days a decade ago. It holds up with no issues whatsoever for teleconferencing now. Even the grill is the same as the one I started out with. Just needed to hammer the dents out.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

They are all a tad dented no?

[@ray.deathray]

@@DarkCornerStudios Whenever I came across one in a live show, the grill always seemed to be at least a little bit smooshed. We played punk, so I took it as a sign of quality performances. I was about to buy a replacement grill when I brought it back out, but found that I was able to reshape it to looking like new.

[@JoeMama-jf3zd]

why the hell does he not have millions of subscribers?

[@DarkCornerStudios]

That is a sweet sentiment. Growth is there...slowly marching forward. Thanks for your support!

[@dylanlalondemusic]

I ask myself that every time he posts a video. Stellar content.

[@OfficeofthePacific]

Great video! I owned an SM7B but upgraded to an outstanding tube mic the Vanguard V13 (insanely good!) and sold the SM7B. Recently I bought an SM58 for Music video stuff and I happened upon your video. I was debating about the SM7B or RE20 for double-tracking lead vocals or changing up mics for background vocals. After watching this, it is super clear that I will just use the SM58. Thank you again! Great job! You just saved me $559 because I'd have to get a cloud lifter too! Hahahahaha

[@ChitranjanBaghiofficial]

You sir have saved me a lot of money, may you live long and prosper. 🖖

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers! Extra points for the Star Trek reference! Thanks for watching!!

[@KingFredrickVI]

I have an SM58 for my setup and I think it's great! I could tell purely because the SM58 didn't have a popfilter lol

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...lol...this was one of those "learning experiences"...lol

[@happydeath1575]

Hey which xlr cable do u use for sm58

[@odomodometer]

I've had my sm58 since the mid nineties and it still works flawlessly.

[@happydeath1575]

Hey which xlr do u use with sm58

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Do you mean which cable? Cables dont matter...they have zero impact on the sound

[@happydeath1575]

@@DarkCornerStudios still can you suggest me one

[@happydeath1575]

@@DarkCornerStudiossome xlr cables produce static noise... So just wondering about xlr cable which we need to connect to audio interface... And sm58 comes with no cable

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Anything around a buck a foot is fine...I like the Neutrik connectors...so make sure it has them

[@lawrencerasmus]

Great information

[@jeffreyduncan989]

I love them both. the built in pop filter is really nice for being on stage and the feedback rejection is a little better with the sm7b.

[@jordanmichaelhamlin]

Great video!! They should sell a case for the SM58 to make it look like a SM7B. I would pay $30 bucks for that lol!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Lol...so many small youtubers would buy it... Thanks for watching!

[@Jxm26]

To anybody that sees this a year later for future reference, there are downloadable 3d print files to essentially replicate the body for the sm58 to fit into if the aesthetics are a concern for you

[@mikal]

The major giveaway was the plosives. I knew that would be the 58.

[@mojavisanz597]

Great video comparison

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks! Thanks for watching!!

[@kelwinkwel]

Thankx this help get my first xlr mic m58 and eventually get the sm7b.

[@speakoid]

For the price of one SM7B you can get a full podcast setup of multiple SM58 mics with pop filters and even a couple of FetHeads thrown in for some clean gain boost. Plus you can then use the mics for any live stage podcasts or music performances too. As an ex-touring musician, I'll never stray from the SM58.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

The thing is a workhorse. I have a video coming up showing how to actually turn an sm58 INTO an SM7B. Just a lil bit of surgery...its amazing how close they are mechanically...

[@speakoid]

@@DarkCornerStudios Well I'm looking forward to that one then!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@speakoid Coming in the new year...gonna be a lot of work...looking forward to it though

[@DarkCornerStudios]

So which one are you going for? The sexy or the serviceable?

[@ScottWinters]

For the sake longevity would be the serviceable.

[@ReeWebster]

My 58’s and 57’s have seen things that would make the 7B cry. Longevity, makes for better history.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@ReeWebster I am curious and also cautious at the same time...lol. Thanks for watching!!

[@ulfrinn8783]

I use a Samson Q2U which many will say sound better than an SM58. So if the SM58 is pretty much an SM7B without a built in shock mount and pop filter, that's saying a lot for the $60 I paid for it.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@HentaiHappy nice! Lol. I have both too...but don't tell my wife

[@RockYourBestVocals]

Thanks for doing this - GREAT video! You really should have a lot more followers with this great content and smooth silky voice! I'm sticking with my old standby Beta 58A (for now) and will spend the money on some other toys! 🤘🏼😎🤘🏼

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...the larger following is in progress...bahahaha

[@Philminator]

Great review. I'm still debating between Sm7b and RE27. That's what I've narrowed my search down to, though I am happy with my 55SH Series II, I feel tempted to at least compare it to one other mic at least, before I make a final decision.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

If you can find a place that does rentals...its a huge help. Here in Canada its Long and McQuade...not sure what you got in your neck of the woods

[@Olav529]

it is actually really easy to hear the difference between the microphones because if you listen the sm58 has much more plosives

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Yeah...a good lesson on monitoring your audio...heh

[@StanTheBland]

If that's it then sm7b isn't worth it

[@Olav529]

Stan The Bland but if you have the money and want a real good microphone for podcast or streaming etc. it would be a good choice. But it is really expensive

[@DavidPennybaker]

Very easy for me to tell the difference, just from the "plosives" in the SM58. Would've been interesting to put a standard pop filter on the SM58 and then repeat the test. That being said, I just used an SM7B (for the first time) in a studio for a song I've written. I was impressed. An advantage of the SM58, I think, in the hands of a singer who knows what he's doing, is the ability to use the "proximity effect" (along with volume control of the voice) to really change up how the singer sounds during a performance. "Mic control", done properly by an expert, is amazing to see/hear.

[@dyonight]

Also, the capsule was closer to your mouth with the SM58 than with the SM7b, which is deeper in the housing. Backing off the SM58 could have made them even more similar! Great comparison thanks a lot!

[@miegraungaard2681]

I have a SM58 with a popfiltre and use it for my first homestudio. I am really happy with it. I was thinking about upgrading to a SM7B but this video made me change my mind. Thank you :D

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers and thanks for watching. Check out the latest in this series...posted last week if you really want the push your sm58 to the limit

[@miegraungaard2681]

@@DarkCornerStudios I will! Thank you!

[@SpecialAbonnent]

yeah your breath really gave it away :D I heard it in the first 2 seconds

[@DarkCornerStudios]

It's all the hot air. The stuff just rushes out of me...heh

[@SpecialAbonnent]

@@DarkCornerStudios but nice comparison, they really sound very similar

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@SpecialAbonnent thanks for watching!!

[@stoqpotz]

yep, pretty much...but the sm58 sounds great

[@mikalfatale8329]

I think if he had an a popper to the 58 you won’t be able to tell the difference at all

[@metaldefender49]

Great video with that said I own both and the the Sm7B is well worth the price IF YOU HAVE a CLOUD LIFTER as it's meant to be used with according to most pros. I've tried both on my podcast and for my voice the 7B smokes it on the lows. Again it all depends on the source.

[@TRXST.ISSUES]

Great video 👌

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks Jared! Thanks for watching!!

[@aydoganrm3295]

Very handy video. I’m a regular podcaster and I was thinking of investing in a SM7B. I own a SM58 but never used it for podcasting, just live recording. Given me huge food for thought

[@HopplyYT]

Daredevil out here telling me about mics, i think i'm In :D

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Bahaha...cheers and welcome!

[@Cubebass]

while guessing i was like "that proximity effect thoooooooooooo"

[@DarkCornerStudios]

heh

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks for watching!

[@civilfieldengineer]

sir can I use this mic for poetry recording? It will provide High quality?

[@biggusdiccus6969]

Great video

[@MichaelW.1980]

Well, the missing pop filter on the SM58?made it kinda obvious. But... to be frank, the plosives were the only thing that struck me as a difference. Everything else was very subtle. It’s just... well you said it: The SM58 is just not sexy. Having to use a kinda big pop filter would be a hassle in front of a camera. So even tho I know about how similar those microphones are, I cam not Shure, which one to pick.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Nyuk nyuk. Yeah...one of the problema with not monitoring the audio while shooting. Thanks for watching!!

[@MichaelW.1980]

After quite some time, I ended up deciding against both microphones. And the story might be interesting. So, i was interested in the kind of performance I can get out of a really cheap microphone. Back then I used the RØDE Procaster, so I had a decent microphone to compare it to. So I got myself the Behringer BA85A. And since I knew from other reviews, that The Procaster is actually superior in ambiance noise rejection, I was shocked, when I got the BA85A. It positively destroyed the Procaster and in extent the SM7B in ambiance noise rejection. It was easily 6dB quieter. Too bad it had RFI interference problems. But I decided to give the Shure Beta 58A a go, which had a similar pickup pattern. And this is what I stuck with. The SM7B would be a step back indeed. And for what? More bass response? Heck, the Beta 58A is barely low enough for my use. And on top of that, the SM7Bs self noise by design is higher. I love the looks of the SM7B, yes, but I won’t buy a microphone based on looks alone.

[@abnormallynormal8823]

SM57 with an A81 windscreen and an a55 shock mount will do the same thing as an sm7b for half the price

[@jimmyhudzgarage]

My cousin Jamie used to sing with an SM57, it was like a tank and he used it for everything. I was considering one for voice over work with a filter. I think that you can't go wrong with one and it's so versatile. The price point is excellent. I just can't afford an RE20 or other high dollar mic right now but I hope to in the future. Great video by the way guys.

[@citadelasoundproduction9412]

The difference between them is huge. Also, comparing processed signals is absurd. The 58 is way more present, and less detailed, more output. The SM7 is more detalied, sounds overall bigger, and fatter, and darker. It's very good with dealing with those harsh frequencies when it comes to recording loud screaming, singing, brass, hi hats, stuff like that. The 58 even boosts those, which does make it more applicable in live situations where the sound needs to cut through a mix. Yes, of course you can record great sounding speech with an SM58, but the SM7b still outperforms it in a studio environment.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Of course there are reasons to choose the SM7B over the SM58...but not really the point of the video. The point was the processed signals and the similarities between them. Yes they have very different uses and yeah...the SM7 is legendary...but when doing spoken word...its amazing how quickly people pass over the 58

[@citadelasoundproduction9412]

@daveporter32043 As a professional, you are 100% right, and I find it really sad... But, in an utopian environment where money is not the issue, and you're recording for your own ears (eg. recording your own album, recording an audiobook to listen to later, or something), I'd still go for the SM7, and give it my best. :)

[@citadelasoundproduction9412]

@Mister Problematic Well, that depends on how you look at it. It's not as big as if it were a Shure Beta 52a, but when I think of the SM58, i think "a bit harsh, cuts through the mix", when I think SM7, i think "smooth, sits well in the back of the mix" kind of voice. It's a question of resolution. :)

[@HellaJ]

Sm7b for aggressive vocals all day.

[@earlteigrob9211]

Wow, thank you for this video!!! I was just about to get a sm7b to replace my 58 for studio recording but with the pop filter I just got I'm not sure it will really make any difference.

[@jeffreyhackmedia]

Thank you for this video! I own and use the SM58. I could definitely tell the different between the two mics because the SM7b is a lot warmer in tone where the SM58 sounds brighter but is more sensitive to airflow.

[@iam-music]

Hehe...Id like to hear them without the foam/high ball and with an external pop shield at identical distance to capsule...level the playing field

[@basarat]

Other than the pop filter. Pretty close ❤️🌹

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Thanks for watching

[@xmontovanillix]

I actually like the sound of the sm58 more, it just REALLY needs a good filter for plosives lol The sm7b kills it in that department. Both are amazing Mics!

[@ProdbyTrehnt]

Thanks man!!!!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!!

[@sadmanfuad5410]

thanks for the video

[@DarkCornerStudios]

My pleasure...thanks for watching!

[@JeremyLeech]

Podcastage said it best. The SM7B has become the blue yeti. The mic everyone thinks they need. You don’t need to spend that much. There’s plenty of cheaper mics that will get you what you need

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Its so true... There are some fantastic ways you can eq a mic to make it sound really good.

[@misobeno]

Thanks for putting this together, this just made my choice easy for my first non-trash mic.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Awesome! Glad I could help...and thanks for watching!!

[@moedemama]

Whats noticable is that the sm7b is really level volume wise, while you can hear glimpses of the proximity effect on the sm58. If you would put them side by side and align their capsules instead of the outside grills, they would sound even more alike, plus a pop filter and they would be indistinguishable. Cool video, thanks

[@davidjaikaran4132]

Thanks for the info. Can you please share with us the Mike you are using in front of you, other than the two you are reviewing.

[@koyamoro3595]

I see a lot of studio guys using the 58. I'm glad I found this video.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Glad ya found it too! Thanks for watching

[@fretsnreeds]

Good Video well done!

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Awesome! Thanks for watching!!

[@aidanbrydenmusic]

Thank you for this super helpful video, I have a Beta57A that's great for vocals and acoustic guitar (gives a nice solid recording of acoustic guitar). I was thinking about getting an SM7B for vocals but having seen your video, I don't think there would be much of a difference so I'm saving my cash. Might try an SM86 condenser for a different sound.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Great to hear we helped! Thanks for watching!!

[@ReeWebster]

Breathe 100% gave it away. I was thinking that, but I wasn't sure until you flashed the text lol.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Nice...lol They really are close. Thanks for watching!!

[@andyjames6664]

Thank you for your honesty and I think you could've just save me a lot of money. I have a Beta 58A and it always sounds great in the PA system. Looks like there's no need to even worry about getting an SM7B for recording.

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Cheers. If it sounds good on ya and it works for you...why bother upgrading until you can do so without sweating the money. Thanks for watching!!

[@DaveSoltura]

Thank you for the fantastic value! I wonder how the test would have gone if the SM58's capsule was positioned parallel to the SM7B's capsule. Any chance we could hear samples of that? :)

[@DarkCornerStudios]

I have a few...including a relatively recent video...feel free to browse!!

[@aleneftekhari4311]

Just 12hours of research, then this review helped me made my mind. Thanks

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Glad we could help...cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@Sergio-nb4hj]

What did you pick?

[@aleneftekhari4311]

@@Sergio-nb4hj in the end i picked sm58 , but fortunately a good friend of mine find a beta58a mint condition (basically a refined sm58) and its brilliant for harsh and growl vocal

[@aleneftekhari4311]

@@DarkCornerStudios thanks again

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@aleneftekhari4311 😃

[@francoisnel5253]

What is the silver Mic used during the video? Looks similar to my NT 2000, but man is that thing noise. Thinking I need to build a sound box to use it. Picks up fridges in the next room, picks up laptop sounds. Thinking to get Ipad and just run a mic through Scarlett 2i2 and usb powered hub or something to be quiter. Recording straight into that... I haven't really been motivated to pursue the NT 2000 due to how much it picks up. I can imagine in the proper environment that it could sound good. Also perhaps I need more power to drive it or the Scarlett is simply too noisy, and my post editing skills are still at beginner level I guess. But think a SM7B or even SM7/8 if I can drive it might just sound the best for picking up a more focussed environment. And the Tablet can be dedicated to performing a job and promote a more focused approach perhaps, but these are just thougths.

[@MrMoviePhoneEx]

easy to hear the differences, but I've spent a fair amount of time researching mics lately. you can absolutely hear the highs and boosted feel of the sm58 in your demo whereas the 7b was darker and felt more natural to your voice. your condenser had a similar flavor of boost on it as well - very clear, but missing the lower end that makes the voice feel more natural.

[@geoffjenkins4633]

Do you do this comparison while holding the mics? Because from the details section of this video, the main differences would be noticed in handling the mics and in the preamp levels needed.

[@johnsawin8193]

You just saved me over 200 bucks! Thank you!!!

[@mikebottiaux5850]

Amazing, I had no idea.

[@jfranciskeys9500]

Hey AMAZING video!! Thank you. Are the EQ’s and processing the same for each mic? Or did you attempt to make them sound similar?

[@DarkCornerStudios]

Each had their own eq curve...but beyond that is was very little processing. Cheers and thanks for watching!!

[@jfranciskeys9500]

Good to know! Thnx again, you’re awesome

[@DarkCornerStudios]

@@jfranciskeys9500 awww...thanks!