Shure SM57 vs. SM7B: A Dynamic Duo?

[@tombuck]

Time Markers- 0:00 - Microphone Match UP 1:15 - Mic Design Differences 2:18 - Comparison Setup w/ Rodecaster Pro 3:11 - Sound Comparison 3:51 - SM57 Wind Screen Test 4:30 - Who is This Test For? 5:43 - A Dynamic Duo 6:12 - No Wrong Answers 6:47 - Wind Screens to the Extreme (Pop Test)! 8:41 - Distance Comparison 9:33 - Decide What Works for You 11:12 - More Mic Comparisons!

[@alayejon]

OBSERVATION Just before you put the pop filter back on the Shure SM-7B I kinda noticed the almost 3/4 inch hollow gap from side view of the wired mesh in front of the mic which I think further distances the mic user from the actual mic capsule. I'm guessing it helps with the reduction of plosives

[@AudioHaze]

Honestly for me if you can buy an after market pop filter and snap it on the SM57 its good as golden, no need to blow the cash :)

[@MrKarlGP]

...and you could always side chain an upper harmonic synthesizer in post these days for a little "air" if you want :)

[@stevef]

Hey Tom, thanks so much for doing this review. We are starting our podcast and I actually found an SM57 in a box. It was used for instrument recording and I didn't know that the windscreen and settings on the RODE could bridge the gap while I save up and also this can be deployed for a guest.

[@tombuck]

That’s perfect! It’ll definitely hold you over.

[@waynemiller6070]

I tried to justify spending the money. In fact I bought a sm7B yesterday. But when I added a vocal track using that mic and compared it side-by-side with $100 PV mic that was already recorded, I literally could not tell any difference. I brought my sister in and had her listen as I A/B’d them. She couldn’t believe there were two different mics. They sounded exactly the same to her. Edit: I cannot justify the money. I’m returning the 7B today.

[@tombuck]

Always helpful to get an outside opinion! Glad you found what works best for you.

[@ulfrinn8783]

IMO, get that low profile rubber shock mount for the SM57, the windscreen designed to fit it, and you have a setup that looks as good on camera as any other studio dynamic. I don't understand why the podcasting and streaming/content creation community looks down on microphones because they can be held in the hand.

[@xyzct]

Because ... you know ... tattoos and man-buns ...

[@TheStudioFreq]

Happy to bring a little extra traction to this post. The comparison is nice to hear but there are so many differences between those mics that would help someone to consider spending the extra. No mention of dip switches or the hum bucker or off axis rejection or different low end allowed due to the larger body cavity behind the capsule. The SM 7B was born of the sm57 after Shure pretty much wrote a blank check allowing the engineers to create a no limits version. So basically the SM 7B does everything the SM 57 does with greater flexibility EXCEPT you have to have a pretty hefty gain structure to get it to work properly. Very low sensitivity to Background noise as a result which is great but you generally have to purchase something like a cloud lifter for that additional gain boost that most preamps don’t provide. You need at least 60 dB gain minimum to get it to start working properly. I’ve been using the sm57 from time to time for almost 25 years now. The SM7B is great For those who want frequency shaping control on the mic -which the 57 does not have and if they need it to mount for broadcast purposes it does that very well because of the yoke which the 57 does not have. With VERY slight EQ They can be made to sound indistinguishable from each other, but the functionality of why the SM 7B was created is what sets it apart. But don’t forget your gain boost which is going to add to your cost. Are you sure you need that functionality of the SM 7B? If so, go for it. Otherwise, many other mics that can give you killer sound for much less for people doing talking head type work online.

[@tombuck]

Thanks for adding this insight! 🙏

[@michaelrodnick7223]

Always appreciate your content and knowledge, Tom! I get excited each time I see a notification that you dropped a new video. Keep it up!

[@tombuck]

Wow, thank you! That is incredibly awesome to hear 🙌🏼

[@SantoValentino]

I really like your videos. Great lighting, great editing and great sound. And you’re not boring. I watch too much KZbin so I’m kind of an expert on skipping boring channels.

[@tombuck]

Thank you! That's high praise!

[@marvean2519]

Great comparison. I honestly believe you'll be totally fine with either one of these mics, SM58,75,7B. They all sound very similar, especially after EQ.

[@MakeTechPtyLtd]

Thank you for your valuable content! -Ken

[@tombuck]

You’re welcome!

[@MakeTechPtyLtd]

@@tombuck I just did a Rode wireless go unboxing and comparison to a cheap lapel mic and a zoom h4n. You really set the bar pretty high with your video quality. I'll keep practicing and get better. Thanks for your help and inspiration. 😀

[@tombuck]

I’ll have to check it out- I love the Wireless Go and the H4N was my first audio recorder 👍

[@MakeTechPtyLtd]

@@tombuck yeah your Rode wireless go video helped on that purchase. The H4n is still legit after 8 years or so. Any feed back on my videos would be great. Im just smashing out 6 or so a week and using it as education for myself and growing the Chanel. Goal 100 vids in 100 days. Just started using the Sony a6400 that will go on the Robotic Camera System that we've developed.

[@sung_yun]

By now, I've listened to SM57 and SM7B dozens of times on multiple KZbin videos, and I've listened repeatedly to HUNDREDS of sounds from dozens of different mics of quite a few price ranges. They both sound VERY good. They DO sound different (ALL mics do), but really, based on your goal/objective/taste/preference/bias, either can sound more desirable than the other (listen from (click on) 5:10 / 5:33). It's sort of like Coke vs. Pepsi, if you (already) think that the "BEST" soda SHOULD taste like Coke you will go for Coke over Pepsi (that is, if you already think SM7B is the better/best sounding one, you will reject any other comparable mic as not as good). I think with either mic you'll sound AWESOME! (Idea: go find and gouge out a tiny bit of fine insulation foam and stick it into the tip of Shure A2WS windscreen for better plosives rejection. I like the look of A2WS over A81WS. Lol.) Besides, virtually all listeners won't be able to tell the difference especially between these 2 mics when listening on their smartphone or tablet, especially without headphone. And as for Shure SM57, it's legendary and it doesn't need my take on how great the mic is (the President of the United States can speak to this mic). Thanks for the video, Tom, vey nicely done/presented.

[@tombuck]

Your Coke/Pepsi analogy is perfect- it really does depend on what you're expecting to hear or what preconceived notions/biases already exist.

[@officialWWM]

When it comes to mics, it’s not just all about sound!

[@frankcoffey]

I remember seeing Tom Petty and other artists in concert using the SM57 as their main vocal mic without a pop filter and it sounded great. I've had a SM57 in the past but ended up getting the Beta57a for it's increased output and frequency response. Put a cloud lifer or other booster on ether of the 57s and you get great output like a condensor without picking up everything in the room. I'm using a Klark Teknik CT-1 booster (cheaper than cloud lifter) on the Beta57a and the output is fantastic. Let's me run the preamp gain in the sweet spot.

[@tombuck]

Interesting about the Tom Petty performance- that's super cool! And thanks for the recommendation of the Klark- I haven't heard of it.

[@frankcoffey]

@@tombuck If you search KZbin for Tom Petty live you will see him using a SM57 in several of them.

[@errorsofmodernism7331]

Doors at Hollywood Bowl is SM57

[@chivatech]

SM57 + Shure A81WS and you are set.

[@ChrisPFuchs]

This 100%, the A81WS warms up the SM57 closer to the sound of the SM7b, while also doing a better job than the default A2WS at plosives. Also, the SM7b doesn't have a transformer (hence why it requires so much gain), while the SM57 does, so for those that really want to get the sound closer to the SM7b, doing the transformer mod might be something worth looking into.

[@purplepudding9144]

For fuckin what tho. Get specific what are you set for.

[@LuckyFlesh]

@@purplepudding9144 Specifically, set for... everything. With filter for vocals and without for instruments/everything else.

[@benjhaisch]

Love that this came across my feed today. If I could only own two mics for everything, it might be these two. Could easily record every instrument I'd have use for. SM7b actually works really well as a kick drum/bass cab mic too.

[@tombuck]

Absolutely, they're an amazingly versatile combo!

[@nmonye01]

As a listener I can't distinguish the two. As a performer the SM7b has an amazing bass response...my lower voice loves it then I see the price...ouch...it's worth it...both great mic s. Great video.

[@CosmicApe]

I can't really hear the difference between them either.

[@TH-lo8mq]

SM57 has slightly more high-end. They are extremely close otherwise.

[@HiFiASMR]

the windscreen doesnt just dampen the brightness on the sm57. you can hear a noticeable tonality coloration same as what happens on sm58 due to its headbasket.

[@ittotaq]

I was hoping we could hear an a81ws windscreen comparison to the sm7b regular popfilter

[@tombuck]

I don’t have that windscreen, but I’d love to get one.

[@camilospataro664]

​@@tombuck This would be a great video to do! No one in youtube has donde that review and I know for sure a ton of people (me included) are interested in seeing that., coupled with a A2WS vs A81WS. I bought a sm57 with the A2WS after seeing some reviews and I was left wondering if I should have bought the A81WS. Youre reviews are pretty awesome and usefull, so you should try to do this review when you have the chance! Thanks for the great reviews!

[@JashimJalal]

Loving your comparison videos. I'm currently in the process of purchasing a mic and I cant wait to watch this!!

[@JashimJalal]

...as I'm watching this 😅

[@tombuck]

Haha glad they’re helpful. Hopefully you find the one that’s right for you 👍

[@nicolasjohnson2971]

I came across this video looking for “sm57” and “Rhode caster pro” comparisons. I own two “sm57’s” originally for my home studio but have used them for podcast interviews and they work great! A couple of “tidbits” on the humble sm57: it has been used on every presidential inauguration/speech since 1977. Also uses the same capsule as the 7b, it’s just placed further back. So one could get the same sound by just boosting the low end in post.

[@tombuck]

It's a great mic and it's use in presidential speeches is realyl fascinating (I just didn't want to bring up the president we had at the time this video was made😉 )

[@magoostus]

it doesnt even really matter what mic you get to some extent. the issue is that nobody knows how to EQ or use compression

[@str8frmthacr8]

YES!! I've had a client run through SEVEN mics in a year. a 55SH, 57, 58, pod mic, re320, re20, and they've finally settled on a 7b...of course. I don't think that has anything to do with everyone using it AT ALL.......However, If I played you her audio post processing, they all sound the same. She was looking for a mic that made her vocals sound "mixed" the moment she hits record. I believe that's what inexperienced people think they need in order to be successful. Lol. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Get what's in your budget and hire someone to mix it for you. It can be someone on fiverr for cripes sake. *face palm*

[@AdamKrukowski]

no..

[@str8frmthacr8]

@0Jebus0 back when I was doing studio work I had this guy walk in with his own u87, record a song and wanted it on a cd right away. The MOMENT he finished his last vocal take. I asked him if he wanted a quick mix he said and I quote "the guy at guitar center said it sounds mixed right away. Thanks though." 😂 then he calls me a week later saying "I think your studio is messed up, man." I'm like what are you talking about? He says "I've been listening to this and it's really quiet and doesn't sound that great" I just hung up on him. He REALLY thought he could solve his problems by throwing money at it and that his mic would sound mixed...can't make this up.

[@purpleheart69420]

@@str8frmthacr8 lmfao

[@PawFromTheBroons]

From prior tests I’ve seen, quite surprisingly, if you use the bigger alternative gray foam for the SM57 (Shure A81WS) it brings it closer to the SM7B.

[@tombuck]

Someone else mentioned that windscreen too, and it seems like it would really bring them closer together.

[@carlosgulotta]

thanks!

[@adamm2571]

I wanted a good, cheap dynamic for stream because my condenser was picking up external noise. SO happy with the sm57, and the fact that it's $400 cheaper and sounds similar to the 7b makes it all the sweeter! Thanks!

[@tombuck]

The 57 is so good! I recently got the AWS81 windscreen for it, and I swear you really can't tell the difference from the SM7B.

[@wilsonvn]

@@tombuck will you make a comparison video with this windscreen?

[@najiahgriffiths4216]

you mean $300 cheaper? the sm7b is $399

[@adamm2571]

@@najiahgriffiths4216 In CAD, it's a $400 difference.

[@charliejg]

The SM57 and 58 are workhorses. I was using them back in the late 70s early 80s in my band to mic instruments and for vocals. We also used an EV PL-76 for the lead vocals. But, though it had a nice pattern, it was battery powered which could be a pain.

[@ZTTowell]

I have an old EV PL77 and it can be battery or phantom powered. Maybe the 76 can too?

[@charliejg]

@@ZTTowell Not sure, I don't think we had the capability to do phantom power with our equipment at the time. Or, didn't have the know how! LOL!

[@matrixate]

They both sound almost identical but people don't know how to EQ. The SM57 is the Swiss Army knife of microphones...EVERYONE should have one. It's like...a necessity. I'll never sell that mic. I can live without the SM7B. I'd rather just get a Cloudlifter CL-Z and make my SM57 sound better than the SM7B.

[@michalbochenski4329]

or you can get a dbx 286s and have a lot more stuff for the same price as the cloudlifter.

[@CosmicApe]

How does an in-line preamp help make the SM57 sound better than the SM7B? I'm getting my first microphone to primarily sound better in most of my applications. Sure, the SM7B sounds good, but a $400 microphone is wasted on me. While listening to the video and reading comments, I couldn't personally tell the difference between the two.

[@gabrielchavarria22]

If I got an SM7B, I would EQ it to sound like the SM57.

[@johnngatho6520]

Hahaha...so you'll make a $399 mic sound like a $99 one.... nice one.

[@Brando-_-440]

Right, it’s about an understanding of EQ. The 57 is enough with tweaking. $300 saved.

[@Brando-_-440]

Oh, and a hair tie with some foam makes a damn good wind screen

[@purplepudding9144]

@@johnngatho6520 do your homework. Worth doesnt affect sound

[@gabrielchavarria22]

@@marles139 Nonsense. I own an SM7B and I still prefer the SM57. Nice try tho. #ProudSimp

[@FutureVegan]

Hi Tom. That was a great comparison video! I've been watching many videos where people compare Shure mics and I still have some questions about them. I'm looking for a mic solution to reduce the echo in my studio. Currently I'm using a zoom h5 with the zoom ssh6 capsule. From what I've seen and read it seems that perhaps the SM58 might be the best option to reduce echo, noise and reverb. I already got 2 fetheads thinking I would buy the SM7B, but now I don't know what to do. If you watch my last video you'll see how the sound currently is (and it is a treated small studio room with 10 sound panels). My room size is 420 x 310 x 260 cm and I've got 10 acoustic panels (100 x 50 x 5 cm). These are the options I'm considering: *1 - SM7b + Fethead + Zoom h5* *2 - SM58 + Fethead + Zoom h5* *3 - SM57 + pop filter + Fethead + Zoom h5* It seems like the SM57 and SM58 are esentially the same mic, but I still don't know which option would be best for my setup. Any help / feedback would be much appretiated. Thanks!

[@uKoalele]

Very clear and nice Video. Thank you!

[@tombuck]

I really appreciate the kind words 🙏

[@vardhanmahajan7135]

I never knew the Shure SM57 existed. Thanks, great video! Edit - honestly I don't hear much difference. But I don't have a trained ear so I didn't expect much, but just asking, how different are they, to your trained ears? also, just a suggestion you should compare the Podmic to the Shure SM57, I think a lot of people(including me) will find that very helpful.

[@tombuck]

I’ve got a “$100 mic comparison” video that includes both of those, so it should be helpful. I don’t know that I have a trained ear, but I like them both. Personally, I use the PodMic because that’s what I find to be most natural for my voice.

[@vardhanmahajan7135]

@@tombuck great, thank you! I will have a look at that video! I don't know how I missed that! :(

[@Gr0llig3r]

@@tombuck and thats why i bought mine. IT'S YOUR FAULT 🤔🤣🤣

[@juap]

Dude, Shure SM57 its the industry standart of microphones, they are on all major studios on the world, they are absolutely awesome to record guitar amps, drums, acustic instruments. if you want to record on your home you must have one of this, the best thing, its that they are so damn cheap. This things rarerly occur in life, being so good and cheap.

[@vardhanmahajan7135]

@@juap yea dude! I will look into it, thanks :)

[@PrestonJensen]

Both sound great! Just got my wind screen for the PodMic. Wow! Can’t believe it can make that much of a difference.

[@tombuck]

Right?! It's almost like a different mic! I hope you noticed, but the photo you sent it on the wall in the background now.

[@PrestonJensen]

Tom Buck Oh I noticed! This is the first thing I look for in every video! I’m honored it’s on the wall!

[@tombuck]

Haha! Thanks again it really looks great.

[@DanielTolson1]

Epic content as always Tom. Thank you.

[@tombuck]

Much appreciated!

[@celebril]

It shouldn't be a surprise that there is a lot of similarity. The SM7b was designed around the SM57 cartridge, with a bit more low end. You really should mention the gain needed a bit more, as well. The board your using is capable of driving it but a lot of lower end boards just don't have the gain needed. Personally, for someone starting out, you're better off getting a better preamp and go with a SM57, than not having something that could make best use of the SM7b.

[@tombuck]

I think that's really good advice. It's tough to go wrong with the 57.

[@nathanksimpson]

Dang your voice sounds good on the SM7b! So smooth and public radio! SM57 feels a little crispier.

[@tombuck]

It's definitely easy to see why the SM7B is such a popular choice, it's a really outstanding mic. I don't know if the 57 is actually crisper or if it's the design of the mic. I've found that the big AWS81 windscreen really makes the 57 sound closer the SM7B.

[@kingsqueak2221]

With any mic element, take your hand as if you are about to salute, four fingers in a shark fin, space yourself from the element, on center and four fingers away. This is basically what the SM7b "cone" is doing. If you put the SM-57 windscreen on about 3/4" from the mic element and then speak 3" on center from the windscreen, your plosives will almost disappear.

[@tombuck]

Thanks for the tip and easy to understand explanation!

[@thegodnasr]

Will the SM57 work on a Podcast with more than one guest as far as noise rejection?

[@tombuck]

Definitely. Especially if the mics are positions at about a 45 degree angle so their pickup patterns don’t overlap.

[@thegodnasr]

@@tombuck ok thanks man! New subscriber! Love your content and puns🤣

[@DanCBearded]

Love these videos!

[@tombuck]

Thanks Dan! 😎

[@mcclendonreport]

But the question remains, is the difference worth $300? The SM57 is a road warrior of the 1st degree. I will take a page from my audiophile dad's playbook. He use to always remind my brother and I, when compare shopping for gear: "Ok fellas, but does device A sound that many dollars better than device B?" He would go on to conclude, "at some point a human can't hear that well. You must find that threshold and then make your decision." Advantage SM57.

[@dreaminginnoother]

I finally got the sm7 since it was something I had thought about doing for years, and it sounds great, but honestly, it's not significantly better sounding than when I was using my sm57 and sm58. It is fuller and warmer sounding, but I kind of miss the brighter tones of the other ones sometimes. Really, what I still appreciate most is probably its ease of use. There's much less worrying about plosives and movement noise. If sound is your concern, I would happily go back to the sm57 or sm58 and might still for some things. Can't go wrong with any of them.

[@tombuck]

I think you're exactly right. The sound quality isn't light years beyond the other Shure mics (all of which are great), but it's definitely an easy mic to work with and just gets out of the way while you do your thing.

[@STARSTATUSCHRIS]

The Shure SM7B has a little more intimate presence (to my ears) but I don't know if that's worth the extra 300 price tag, So I'll go with the SM57.

[@vanhelmen3168]

Very helpful comparison. Thank you very much! 👍

[@tombuck]

You're welcome!

[@AndyKow]

Nice comparison video. Thanks for making and sharing it. Was thinking of the SM57 for a multi use setup between music and voice.

[@tombuck]

It's perfect for that.

[@DigitalSlang]

Another great video bro! Keep it up! Love my Rode Podmic..all thanks to you and your videos!

[@tombuck]

Glad you’re doing well! The channel is looking great 😎

[@DigitalSlang]

Tom Buck appreciate it!

[@urbnctrl]

For point of reference to those not familiar. The presidents speeches to the nation are done on the SM57.

[@disass]

so much more clarity in the high end on the sm57

[@crtune]

Shure calls their "capsule" in a mic the "motor". It turns out that the SM57, SM58 and SM7B all use some variation of a capsule (motor) called Unidyne 3. This is the third version of a type of dynamic mic capsule invented in the 1950's. This type of capsule has been used in quite a few different Shure mics, but specifics matter - it's not the type of capsule in every Shure mic. I have a SM57 mounted on an arm right next to my PC running into the machine. This is fine for picking up speaking voice, but it will pick up noise and plosives if you don't ISOLATE and provide POP FILTER protection. All that can be done without spending hundreds.

[@nunoandradebluesdrive]

No real difference here. 57 sounds really nice and good enough for podcasting and even recording vocals in a band record on the sm7b realm.

[@MichaelW.1980]

I personally would go for the Shure Beta 58A any day. It sounds great and it beats both the SM57 and the SM7B to a pulp, in terms of background noise rejection.

[@tombuck]

I haven't had a chance to use the Beta myself, but it seems like an excellent choice.

[@topacio9326]

AMAZING VIDEO!!!

[@mindbendernine]

@Tom Buck - Thank you for the review. And you were right on the money that this SM7B sounded more present (midrange is back) compared to a previous vid. This also confirmed my greatest fear -- that I didn't need to invest in an SM7B and could've just opted for the SM57 + A2WS windscreen for $300 cheaper. Buyers remorse? Not really, because the SM7B is so smooth with its delivery. While the SM57 has a similar "tone" to my ears, there is still a upper-midrange increase that I can't EQ away with my gear. For those viewers who haven't used an SM7B, it's much smoother than a SM57 but you wouldn't get that impression from a video. SM7B owners know what I mean. But if I were starting out again, I would definitely opt for the SM57 + A2WS. What a great mic at a great price. Thanks for the review, @Tom !

[@tombuck]

You can’t go wrong either way, and I think they make a great pair. Thanks for the kind words!

[@FacultadDeSonido]

Those bad jokes always make me hit the like button. Great Content.

[@tombuck]

I love it. Thank you Jaime! I just had someone tell me the jokes are why they don’t watch my videos 😁

[@FacultadDeSonido]

@@tombuck they are missing out!

[@kingsqueak2221]

I use the Shure windscreen on the SM-57, I set it 3/4" from the element and it works very well, better than the ball on the SM-58 and it has a lower visual profile being narrower and black so I like the way it looks better for fixed position use on camera for speech. My voice is very bass heavy/baritone and this mic of the pile of other mics I own, many much more expensive, has a perfect profile. I wind up having to dump an extreme amount of 63Hz and 120-140Hz on many "studio" mics and the SM-57 takes a lot less correction to level it. It also has a very smooth upper frequency response so it doesn't exaggerate the gravely overtones in my voice either, where many other mics have a presence rise that gets gritty fast on my voice. For the money, vs the SM7b , it's a no brainer for most people.

[@tombuck]

This is interesting, thanks for sharing! I appreciate all the details!

[@ClintsGrievances]

I had both these mics and directly compared them by recording a single sentence spoken into both mics at the same time in a multi-track recording. I wanted to see if the price of the SM7b was justified... I now own an se electronic v7.

[@sheshewantit45]

just bought and put a pop filter foam on my sm57 and its sooo perfect!!!

[@TelugutoenglishDictionary]

Will the heavy sm7b fit well on the short mic stand used in this video ? I am worried it will fall ?

[@tombuck]

Yes, the mic stands are super sturdy.

[@sassulusmagnus]

Both are great, and they can be set up to sound similar. But if you set each mic up to do what it does best, you will find that they do not sound exactly the same. They have different capsules and those are in different enclosures. Even the same capsule will sound different with a different enclosure.

[@tombuck]

The enclosures are definitely different. The shock absorption of the SM7B is pretty mind blowing to me 🤯

[@AniJudaism]

I love my SM7B after 16 years of doing radio I finally have the top notch radio mic I always wanted. The only issue I have is not the mic’s fault. I get a slight reverb bleed from the room I do my radio show in. Most cannot hear it but I do. And it is because I have a non-soundproofed room that is small. My fiancé and I are looking at buying a house and when I have my studio there as opposed to my apartment there will be a larger room with carpeting which will help majorly. But the Shure SM7B is top notch

[@tombuck]

It’s funny how those little things that no one else notices can really end up bothering you. Good luck on the house hunt!

[@AniJudaism]

Tom Buck yeah and I think it bothers us because we are the ones investing in the equipment lol. So when we drop $600 and don’t realize there are things in our environment we cannot help it can be bothersome lol

[@najiahgriffiths4216]

are you using a cloudlifter in this test for the shure sm7b? if not that is a testament to how good that mixer is!

[@tombuck]

I was NOT using a booster here. The original RCP had great preamps, but the SM7B definitely pushes it to its limits. The RCP2 can handle it with ease.

[@holmes1978]

As soon as typed that you pull out the wind screen excellence

[@PhillipBridgesReviews]

It’s crazy how close they sound. Nice alternative. 👍🏻

[@tombuck]

Thanks man! The 57 is an awesome mic.

[@xaviertx89]

Great video Tom 🙏🏼🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🔥🔥🔥

[@tombuck]

Thank you 🙌

[@JashimJalal]

I want that male sex hotline voice the Shure SM7B gives. Very similar quality and separately there's no way to tell them apart, but compared next to e.o the SM7B is marginally better with better plosives and a lot better in the looks dept. Great comparison Tom!

[@tombuck]

Haha, glad it was helpful!

[@emanuel_soundtrack]

yes, this is my voice criteria hahah but eq and comp do the service alone with the 57

[@holmes1978]

Excellence video Sir !

[@stevef]

BTW, what are the windscreen models for the SM57? Looking at Sweetwater and there are many. I would get both that you showed. I am looking at the Shure A57AWS.

[@niklaswikstrom78]

I have the A2WS-BLK for my SM57 and it works great

[@tombuck]

That's it. I just updated the description with links to both. The bigger one doesn't fit as snugly, but it works. The "official" one is made specifically for the 57, so it's a perfect fit.

[@stevef]

@@tombuck Prefect. Just ordered it through your link.

[@ittotaq]

A81ws gets you closer to sm7b than the a2ws

[@RenaldoQuestelles]

The Samson Q2U and the Shure SM58 is a perfect pair too. I did a comparison video on them. 4 Samson Q2U for $240 USD

[@tombuck]

That's true! Samson makes really great affordable mics.

[@RenaldoQuestelles]

Tom Buck I’m considering starting a go fund me to get a RodeCaster pro. 🤣 I’ll be the first in my country with one 😈

[@EzioTravel]

This is brilliant

[@xyzct]

Krause has a video on how to EQ the 57 to sound like the 7B.

[@mattwruff]

I think I would have liked to see the PodMic against the SM57 or 58. The 57 is a great instrument mic the 58 is geared to vocals. Want to try an Amazing Mic try the Neumann u87 ai Mic ($3,600). I think we agree that if you can afford it buy a Podcaster and a couple of PodMic’s for under $1000 you get a complete system that just amazing for HOW EASY it is to use and the overall very nice Quality it offers. After the audio is compressed to MP3 for the podcast the quality is already compromised. The one thing is everyones voice is deferent so you need to get a mic that works with your voice and the best advise is to try several mics out and then ask your friend which one sounds best. What you think isn’t what matter it what the listener hears is what matter. That what I think..

[@tombuck]

Yes! It’s all about what works for each person’s voice. I do have a “$100 Mic Showdown” video that puts the PodMic up against the 57 and the 58. 👍

[@sergeyzalozny9329]

Hey, Tom if You want those two to be even more simmilar - try Shure A81WS windscreen. White House boys use SM57 + A81ws windscreen + A55 shock stopper very often. 150 usd - really close to sm7b.

[@tombuck]

Very cool, thanks for that info!

[@ben-benedict]

Any thought about the « humm » sometimes picked up by the sm57. I got one with a81ws pop filter . It sounds amazing but has some hmm . It disappear if I handled the mic or if I put my hand on the audio interface .

[@tombuck]

Interesting. I’m wondering if it’s the mic or your cable?

[@ThisIsTBChannel]

If I have a Cloudlifter, should I use it with the Rodecaster pro? Using a Condenser setting for my Shure SM7B w/ Rodecaster Pro (letting myself to have the levels to 32). Or should I do like you, with Dynamic settings (levels at 40) . Thank you so much!

[@tombuck]

I've been enjoying the Cloudlifter with the Rodecaster, so I'd recommend using it if you have it. And I do recommend the dynamic settings since those are dynamic mics. I don't know how much of a difference it really makes, but I like it.

[@ThisIsTBChannel]

@@tombuck Thank you so much!!

[@Emet.V]

I did AB test of Shure mics sm57/beta57a/sm58/beta58a/super55/sm7b. They sounded very similar to each other vocal wise. They are all either cardioid/super cardioid mics 🎤 . I personally run a beta 57a with windscreen and Super 55 for vocals. Looking to get a pop filter to help with plosives. They are all wonderful mics 🎙️

[@holmes1978]

You should of put on the Shure A2WS Windscreen Sir !

[@creativedecysions]

I have a couple SM57, y’all think these will work for overheads for a podcast or do I need a different kind.

[@tombuck]

The 57 isn’t super ideal for being too far away from the sound source. For overheads, shotgun mics and pencil condensers are usually best.

[@creativedecysions]

@@tombuck cool I’ll check your channel to see about a good budget shotgun / pencil mic for podcasting. Thanks

[@gregaluise5727]

For the price difference the SM-7b does not justify it's more than $300 increase (for the application of podcasting). Not to mention the extra $90-$150 you'll have to spend on either a FETHead or CloudLifter in order to provide enough preamp gain (unless you have a higher end preamp with +60db of quiet/clean gain). The SM57 in this comparison as well sounds like like it better isolates your voice in the room as well. The SM-7b has an extended lower frequency response, but that lower frequency response also sounds to be coupled with a little bit of low-end resonance or ringing. This seems especially apparent to me when you do speak plosives as they plosives seem to "ring" a bit somewhere between 50-60hz where the 57 seems to not suffer that issue.

[@CosmicApe]

I started reading the comments during the video and so couldn't tell what microphone he was talking on at any given time. Personally, I thought they sounded basically the exact same to my ears.

[@gregaluise5727]

@@CosmicApe I guess Shure's Unidyne III based designs have a lot of similarities. I've played with EQ'ing in some low end "resonance" via a HI-Q parametric band in around the 60-90hz region and feel like I've been "close" (maybe the same neighborhood but not the same house :-)) I do like an SM57 for use on podcasting talent. Especially in the event they are in an untreated room. A 57 in somewhat close proximity 3-6" coupled with some nice EQ, downward expansion, and maybe a little compression and you can get pretty close to a "broadcast studio sound." Even when the room has hard wood floors :-)

[@timsmusic7349]

Definitely heard that low ring on the 7B also. Absolutely no one could ever hear less quality from a 57 or 58. I’ve done audio all my life and I have no idea what the 7B crazy hype is other than you look like more of an influencer on KZbin. Can’t beat the old 58. Same price for over 40 years. That’s cool enough for me.

[@xAudiolith]

6:12 the difference here is crazy. I love my 57 but your voice sounds ten times better on the sm7b. The 57 sounds pretty cheap and jarring in such a straight up comparison. Personally I would either shell out for the 7b or get something cheaper more suited for the task than the 57.

[@Sairamark]

pretty good for SM57, can you make comparsion with beta 58A?

[@carloisidoresalcedo6325]

The 7b doesnt tire your ear too much because of the high mid scoop.

[@tombuck]

It's a great mic for spoken word.

[@aztecazul]

What are those colored cable clips that are on the end of your XLR cables? And where can I get them?

[@tombuck]

They're the "Rode XLR-ID" clips and they're great. They also match the colors of the Rodecaster Pro's channels perfectly.

[@MikeMena]

Ya know, It seems that the SM7B has built in high-end metal pop filter too (that metal grill around capsule, what you called the "housing"). I never thought of it as a pop filter, but all the high-end studio pop filters I own are metal grills (as opposed to fabric). I never noticed it before on SM7B. (Nice rim shot btw LOL)

[@tombuck]

You're right- it probably does act like a pop filter!

[@ClearAdventure]

PRO TIP: When you use the smaller pop filter on the SM 57 you cannot use it all the way down on the mic like you are doing here. There is a tiny screw on the side and you tighten that screw with the pop filter a half to full inch ABOVE the mic. I see here for quick change you had it all the way down on the mic. That gives little to no plosive diffusion. Basically, you had a screw loose. (Ba-dum-chi) 🤘🤣

[@tombuck]

Great point! Even better pun 😁

[@xyzct]

Dude, great pointer! Thanks!!

[@cj4167-d2d]

Hey Tom! Amazing video. I have been following you lately. I am planning on getting a pod mic and a rode caster pro, do I need a cloud lifter?

[@tombuck]

It depends. I'm working on a Cloudlifter video now. It does make a difference with the Rodecaster, but it's not a night and day difference.

[@cj4167-d2d]

Tom Buck looking forward for that video!

[@CaptRadar101]

You should try the SM-57 with the Shure A81WS Gray Large Foam Windscreen for SM81 and SM57, Black

[@tombuck]

I just got one and it’s terrific!

[@hndembuon]

SM57 is my favorite, and another way to avoid p sound is just putting the mic a delta like 45 degree to your mouth.

[@joseherrera2634]

I’m running an sm57 through my scarlet 2i2 but I’m still getting a very quiet recording with phantom power on or off . Could you please share some more information about the eq tricks and tips you would use? I keep moving the gain up all the way pretty much and am lost now

[@SethDeng]

You aren’t supposed to turn on 48v when using a dynamic mic

[@FR8Productions]

im wanting to get 2 dynamic mics for my Video cast, and 1 condenser mic. I really am limited on budget and do have a Rodecaster pro 2. I do video voice over for my video content movies and online inspirational stuff. I want both. What do you suggest between the SM57 and Rode podmic ,, and what affordable condesor mic? Thank you!

[@Jongraphs8600]

Thanks, Tom! Question - I need a good mic that can't appear in the shot. What mics do you recommend for farther away pickup? Thanks!

[@tombuck]

You'll definitely want a good shotgun mic. Something like the Rode NTG2 is a good place to start. Depending on your budget, the sky is the limit in terms of price. But the entire NTG series is pretty great.

[@Jongraphs8600]

Tom Buck Thanks!

[@emanuel_soundtrack]

1:00 this is nice! the fact that a michrophon records everything that is in front of it makes it very democratic

[@renegadeeats]

Hey Tom! 👋🏼 I noticed that you set the sliders really high/ towards the top. I usually set them right in the middle with my Røde pod mic. I use Premiere Pro to edit my videos and I usually use the “Stereo” file in my videos because it seems to sound louder/ better than the “mic 1 file” I guess my question is, am I doing it wrong? Haha Maybe a video on how you edit the audio for your videos? You’re awesome! 😎🤘🏻

[@tombuck]

It all depends on how loud you speak and what gain levels you use. The lower you can keep the sliders, the cleaner the sound will probably be. I've been experimenting with a Cloudlifter lately, and will probably have a video about that soon. It definitely helps.

[@shockjock35]

What about the SM7B vs Procaster Pro

[@tombuck]

That would be a more even match up- I just don’t have a Procaster 😬

[@flummi-Berlin]

Good video! But don't forget that the S7B still has adjustment possibilities at the back, which the 57 does not have.

[@tombuck]

Very true! Lots of flexibility there.

[@Godzillah]

I wonder if multiple mics would work in a recording environment like one close to u and one distance away and both record vocals that would capture your voice better. Well like milking an instrument I would milk my voice if that make any sense.

[@tombuck]

I think this is actually a semi-common technique to create certain "vibes" and bring the feel of a space into a recording. The fun part with things like this is that there's so much room for experimentation!

[@ChroniclesofGhoul]

Hey Tom, I rented and tested the SM7B tonight and with the standard windscreen, I found huge plosive issues, irrespective of how far away from my mouth it was or what angle I put the mic. Is this something you’ve experienced or could the rental be defective. If I can’t figure it out, I’ll be getting the RE20. Just curious if you’ve experienced that?

[@tombuck]

That’s super strange. Even without any windscreen, the metal grill of the 7B should tame a lot of plosives. You never know what a piece of rental gear has been through, but this is definitely a mic that’s well known for its ability to reject plosives.

[@PaulElijas]

I think even thought the SM57 is legendary (and I’m probably going to pick up one at one point), I won’t be satisfied before getting the SM7B. That’s just how my brain works, can’t help lol

[@tombuck]

I get it 100%. If that's the case, it's definitely worth saving/waiting for the thing you really want.

[@ronselah8484]

Hey Tom how does sm7b compare with Rode Nt 1 and rode Nt 1000.also I have a yamaha mgp24x mixer and scarlet 2i2 do I need a cloudlifter can't the preamp in my mixer drive the sm7b Thank you

[@tombuck]

The biggest different is going to be dynamic vs condenser. They're all great mics, so you can go wrong in terms of sound quality/durability/etc. The Rodes you listed would be great in a decently treated room with not a lot of reverb/noise. They won't need any kind of signal booster. The SM7B will reject a lot more noise, but it will definitely need a signal booster like a Cloudlifter or Fethead, making it the more expensive option.

[@TylerBeanHead]

How would I EQ the SM57 on Go XLR's software?

[@tombuck]

I wish I had specifics, but I haven’t used the GoXLR myself so I can’t speak to it. Maybe someone else here will know?

[@bukpospolity]

Man this rodecaster tool is amazing.. i wanna have it now! Man..

[@tombuck]

I've had mine for almost 3 years and use it nearly everyday. One of the most useful tools Iv'e ever had! That being said, my wife would hate a Rodecaster and has no use for one, so it definitely depends on your specific workflow.

[@nunoandradebluesdrive]

Sm57 or 58 is all you need for podcast spoken.. Sm7b is close enough, the difference is justified if you are going to sing in studio. After recording and mixing maybe whos gonna know?

[@tombuck]

Yep! I really love the 57 with the big giant pop filter they make for it.

[@casiopea1979]

Can you provide the link to buy that SM7B thick windscreen?

[@tombuck]

I actually don’t know the model number- it the one that’s included in the box.

[@pretor706]

If I'm using headphones, yes I can tell the difference (paying attention). But in all honesty during driving, or whatever... Does it really matter? At least for podcasting.

[@tombuck]

Yep, I think the 57 really does sound terrific.

[@superblindeye1]

I'm looking at recording an album. What if I used s7mb poor vocals, and the sm57 for the acoustic guitar? Could I get a good result from that?

[@tombuck]

Oh my gosh, yes! That's a combo that's been used on iconic recordings over many decades. Very tried and true.

[@pjjones7868]

Really great video >;-)