Shure sm7db
External Microphones

sm7db

Shure

Released Oct 1, 2023 · Analysis updated Apr 1, 2026

Shure sm7db Dynamic Vocal Microphone with Built-in Preamp in the External Microphones category. The Shure sm7db scores 86/100 based on 6 expert reviews in the external microphones category. Coverage includes reviews from Petapixel, Ign, Musicradar, and Soundonsound.

Critic Score

What's this?
86

based on 6 expert reviews

PetapixelIgnMusicradarSoundonsoundTapeop+1 more

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Pros

  • Built-in preamp eliminates need for external preamp(3)
  • Great sound quality(2)
  • Premium build quality(2)

Cons

  • Expensive at $499(5)

6 Expert Reviews

92
Established publication10/2023

The Shure SM7dB delivers luxurious, perfect sound quality with its built-in preamp, making it the gold standard for podcast microphones despite its premium price.

90
Major publication04/2024

The Shure SM7dB fixes the one and only major issue with the original SM7B by including a preamp in the capsule for plenty of clean gain boost.

85
Independent publication06/2024

Iconic speech and vocal mic gets a welcome boost.

85
Independent publication11/2023

If you love the sound of the SM7B but wish its output was a little hotter, the SM7dB is for you!

85
Independent publication01/2024

The Shure SM7dB is a versatile dynamic microphone with a built-in preamp that offers 18 or 28 dB of gain boost, making it ideal for both loud and quiet sources.

80
Independent publication03/2024

The Shure SM7db is a premium dynamic microphone with a built-in preamp that delivers excellent sound quality but comes at a high price point.