Best Audio Interface For Shure SM7B (2023 Buying Guide) For Podcasts, Streaming & Music
Welcome to our 2023 buying guide for the best audio interface for Shure SM7B!
Whether you're a podcasting enthusiast, a streaming aficionado, or a professional audio engineer, this guide will help you find the perfect audio interface for your setup.
We'll go through the features you need to look out for, and the different types of audio interfaces available, so you can make the right choice for your needs.
So, let's get started and find the perfect audio interface for your Shure SM7B now!
3 Best Audio Interfaces For Shure SM7B
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen - Best Budget Small Audio Interface For 2x Shure SM7B Microphones
- SSL+ 2 - Best Audio Interface For Audio Quality With Low Noise Floor
- RodeCaster Pro II - Best Podcasting Audio Interface For 4x Shure SM7B Mics
If you are interested in the best microphone boom arm for the Shure SM7B, click here!
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Generation
Best Budget Audio Interface For 2x Shure SM7B Microphones
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Streaming and Podcasting — High-Fidelity, Studio Quality Recording, and All the Software You Need to Record
If you’re looking for a pro-level audio interface that offers the highest quality pre-amps for recording, then look no further than the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface.
With its powerful and pristine pre-amps, the Scarlett range lets you achieve a brighter and more open recording than ever before - perfect for capturing acoustic instruments, guitars, and vocals with clarity and precision and is a perfect piece of audio equipment using the SM7B.
In our tests, we found though that this 3rd Gen new audio interface does not have enough gain to drive the SM7B which is a really gain-hungry mic, so the best thing you can do to give your Shure SM7B a preamp like a FetHead or Cloudlifter to make this one of the best audio interface to pair with the SM7B!
The Scarlett range also features a switchable Air mode, which adds an extra layer of clarity and brightness to your recordings.
Whether you’re using a Shure SM7B microphone or another mic of your choice, this mode will give you a more natural and open sound.
The Scarlett 2i2 also features two high-headroom instrument inputs, so you can plug in your guitar or bass and get the perfect take without sacrificing your tone.
With Gain Halos, you don’t have to worry about unwanted clipping or distortion - just plug in and play.
To ensure that you hear all the details and nuances of your recording, the Scarlett 2i2 also comes with two low-noise balanced outputs.
Whether you’re playing back your own track or listening to music from Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, you can rest assured that you’ll get crystal-clear playback.
Plus, you can plug in your headphones to the interface for private listening in high fidelity.
But that’s not all - the Scarlett 2i2 is also an ideal choice for podcasting, as it allows you to get studio-quality recordings for your show.
With its excellent sound quality, great pre-amps, and low-noise operation, it’s the perfect interface for any aspiring podcaster.
To sum it up, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is the perfect choice for achieving pro performance with the finest pre-amps.
Whether you’re recording acoustic instruments, vocals, guitars, or podcasting, you can expect the best sound quality and performance - all without sacrificing your sound.
So if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line audio interface, then the Scarlett 2i2 is the way to go.
Solid State Logic SSL+ 2
Best Audio Interface For Shure SM7B For Music Production And Concerts
SSL SSL2+ 2-In/4-Out USB-C Audio Interface
Are you a professional musician or media production team looking for the best audio interface to take your workflow to the next level?
Then the SSL2+ audio interface from Solid State Logic should be at the top of your list.
Developed with the same legendary SSL console sound and quality, the SSL2+ packs a punch that’s hard to beat.
With two SSL-designed microphone preamps, 24-bit / 192 kHz AD/DA AKM Converters, and Legacy 4K - analog color enhancement, you get pristine sound quality that’s designed to bring out the best in your recordings.
Plus, the 2 In/4 Out USB-C interface makes it easy to connect all your studio gear.
But the SSL2+ isn’t just about sound quality. It also has a range of features designed to make collaboration easier.
Two professional, high-current-grade headphone outputs let you and a partner easily share a second independent headphone mix.
And the intuitive console-style workflow gives you all the control you need for the perfect recording.
So, if you’re looking for the best audio interface for your Shure SM7B microphone, the SSL2+ should be at the top of your list.
It’s a great all-in-one professional studio solution for musical collaborators and media production teams who want great sound and an easy-to-use workflow.
The SSL2+ comes at a competitive price, but what are the pros and cons?
On the plus side, you get the legendary SSL console sound, intuitive console-style workflow, and the 2 In/4 Out USB-C interface for easy connectivity.
The Legacy 4K - analog color enhancement is great for getting that classic SSL sound, and the two professional, high-current grade headphone outputs make collaboration a breeze with this affordable audio interface.
On the downside, the SSL2+ doesn’t come with any software or plugins, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
And while the SSL2+ is great for collaborating with a partner, you won’t be able to record more than two musicians or podcasters at once.
Overall, the SSL2+ audio interface is a great choice for musicians and media production teams who want the legendary SSL sound and an intuitive console-style workflow with this high-quality audio interface for Shure!
It’s a great all-in-one professional studio front panel solution that won’t break the bank, and it works well with the Shure SM7B microphone.
RODECaster Pro II (Built-In Preamp)
Best Audio Interface For Shure SM7B With Built-In Preamp For Your Home Studio!
Rode Rodecaster Pro II Podcast Production Console
The RØDECaster Pro II is the world's most powerful all-in-one audio production solution.
With its integrated podcast production studio, four Revolution mic preamps, Bluetooth connectivity, eight customizable pads, two USB-C interfaces, onboard APHEX DSP, and more, it's easy to see why it's the go-to choice for anyone who wants to create amazing audio content with the Shure SM7B for any purpose.
The most impressive feature of the RØDECaster Pro II is its ultra-low noise, high-gain Revolution preamps.
These preamps are designed from the ground up to give you pristine audio from the moment you plug in your microphone or instrument.
This means you can start recording incredible audio with absolute ease and without any extra equipment (like FetHead or Cloudlifter) and start using your Shure SM7B right away!
The RØDECaster Pro II also features eight customizable SMART pads. These SMART pads are so much more than just sound pads.
With the press of a button, you can instantly access features like talkback, sound effects, EQ, compression, and more.
This makes it incredibly easy to record, edit, and mix your audio with just a few taps.
The RØDECaster Pro II also has a high-definition touchscreen, tactile rotary encoder, and intuitive hands-on controls that make navigating and controlling the device super simple.
With this setup, you'll be able to record and mix with ease, even if you're a beginner.
Ultimately, the RØDECaster Pro II is the best audio interface for Shure SM7B and other popular microphones.
It's a powerful all-in-one audio production solution for music producers and podcasters with the best recording quality that will allow you to create amazing content at an unbeatable price.
The only downside is that it doesn't come with a wireless connection, so you'll have to use a USB cable to get your audio from your computer to the RØDECaster Pro II.
But if you're looking for an incredible audio production solution with low latency that is also portable, the RØDECaster Pro II is one of the best high-quality audio interfaces on the market for the Shure SM7B in 2023!
Best Preamp for SM7B
If you’re using the Shure SM7B, you’re likely familiar with its reputation as a great mic for vocals and instruments.
But while the SM7B is a great quality audio mic, its low sensitivity can make it tricky to get enough gain out of it without adding a preamp.
Fortunately, there are a few preamps that are designed specifically for the SM7B. If you’re looking for the best preamp for your SM7B, we recommend the FetHead or Cloudlifter for recording vocals.
Both of these options will give you the extra gain you need to make the most out of your SM7B.
The FetHead is a great choice for those who are just getting started with a SM7B. It’s a small, low-cost preamp that offers plenty of gain for the money.
The FetHead isn’t the most powerful preamp on the market, but it’s plenty for the SM7B. Plus, it’s easy to set up and use.
The Cloudlifter is another great option for the SM7B. It offers more power than the FetHead, with up to 25 decibels of gain.
The Cloudlifter also has a built-in limiter, so you can keep your levels in check and avoid clipping.
If you’re using the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or the SSL 2+ with your SM7B, then you’ll need to purchase a preamp in order to get enough gain.
In this case, either the FetHead or the Cloudlifter is a great choice.
Both will give you the extra gain you need to get the best sound out of your SM7B.
No matter which preamp you choose, you can be sure that you’ll be getting the most out of your SM7B.
So if you’re looking for the best preamp for your SM7B, the FetHead or Cloudlifter are both great options.
With either one, you’ll have plenty of gain and be able to get the most out of your SM7B.
Cloudlifter
Best Mic Activator And Preamp Gain For Shure SM7B
Cloud Microphones - Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator - Ultra-Clean Microphone Preamp Gain - USA Made
If you're looking for the best preamp for SM7B vocal recordings and other quiet audio sources, the Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator is the perfect piece of home studio equipment for professional results.
This microphone activator boosts the signal of vocals, percussion, or acoustic instruments while maintaining the natural sound of your microphone - delivering up to +25dB of gain without passing Phantom power onto the mics.
The Cloudlifter CL-1 is designed for use with any preamp, making it ideal for podcasting, live streaming, radio broadcasts, live sound, and studio recording.
It's compatible with tube, battery, or power supply-driven microphones, and can safely handle ribbon mics with no transfer of Phantom power.
If you're looking for a way to reduce unwanted feedback while increasing the clarity of your microphones, the Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator is the perfect solution.
You'll get professional results with ease of use, delivering the perfect sound for any project.
Get the best preamp for SM7B and other quiet audio sources with the Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator - the perfect choice for any home studio.
FetHead
Best Pre-Amp Gain For Shure SM7B Microphone
TRITON AUDIO FetHead Filter In-Line Microphone Preamp
Are you looking for the best preamp for your SM7B?
Look no further than the FetHead preamp.
It's the perfect solution for amplifying your SM7B's signal and adding clarity and detail to your recordings.
The FetHead is a low-noise Class A FET preamp that boosts the signal from your microphone up to 27 dB.
It also has a balanced XLR input/output and a frequency response of 10 Hz to 100 kHz (+/- 1 dB).
The FetHead is designed to latch onto any XLR-equipped microphone, or anywhere else in the signal path between the mic and preamp/mixer.
It's housed in a robust metal chassis and is powered with 24-48V phantom power.
This powerful and compact preamp will give you all the detail and clarity you need, without cranking your mic preamp and adding unwanted noise.
If you're looking for the best preamp for your SM7B, the FetHead preamp is the perfect solution.
It's designed to bring out the best in your mic while providing a clean and clear signal.
With its ultra-low noise and high quality, you'll be sure to get the best recordings possible.
So, if you're looking for a dependable preamp for your SM7B, look no further than the FetHead.
Choose The Best Audio Interface For Shure SM7B FAQs
Are you looking for the best USB audio interface for your Shure SM7B microphone?
If so, you’ve come to the right place.
In this blog, we'll be exploring the most commonly asked questions about the best audio interface for Shure SM7B microphones.
Get ready to gain a better understanding of which audio interface is best for your setup. Let’s dive in!
What audio interface is best for Shure SM7B?
If you're looking for the best audio interface for your Shure SM7B, then you can't go wrong with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.
It's the best-selling audio interface out there, and it will power and control the Shure SM7B perfectly.
However, if you're looking to start a podcast then the Rodecaster Pro 2 is an excellent choice.
Not only does it have a built-in preamp, but it's also powerful enough to power your entire home studio setup.
Does Shure SM7B need audio interface?
Yes, the Shure SM7B does require an audio interface in order to be used for recording.
An audio interface is a device that connects with a computer and enables the recording and playback of digital audio signals.
Without an audio interface, the SM7B won't be able to connect to your computer and won't be able to record audio.
How do I get the best sound out of my Shure SM7B?
Hey there! Getting the best sound out of your Shure SM7B is definitely possible.
To start, it's important to make sure that the microphone is set up correctly, and that you're using the right accessories.
Make sure that the microphone is positioned correctly and that the preamp you're using is the right one for the job.
Additionally, some good recording techniques can help you get the best sound out of your SM7B.
For example, using a pop filter can help reduce plosives, using a windscreen can reduce wind noise, and using a shock mount can reduce unwanted vibrations.
Finally, be sure to use the right EQ settings for the sound you're looking for. With some time and patience, you'll be able to get the best sound out of your Shure SM7B!
Do I need Cloudlifter for SM7B?
Yes, you do need a Cloudlifter for your SM7B as it helps to boost the gain of the microphone and provides more control over your sound.
With the Cloudlifter, you can get up to 25dB of extra gain out of the SM7B, which can make a big difference in your recordings.
Unless you are using the Rodecaster Pro II which has a preamp built-in! In that case, you won't be needing a preamp like Cloudlifter to get the most gain from your Shure SM7B!
What are alternatives to the Shure SM7B?
If you're looking for an alternative to the Shure SM7B, you may want to consider the Shure MV7 or the Rode PodMic. Both of these offer great sound quality and a wide range of features.
The MV7 is a USB/XLR microphone that offers a wide frequency response and a built-in preamp, while the PodMic is a dynamic microphone designed for podcasting that has a smooth, detailed sound.
Both are good options if you're looking for an alternative to the SM7B.
What Is The Best Preamp For Shure SM7B?
I'd have to say that both the Cloudlifter and the FetHead are great options when it comes to preamps for the Shure SM7B.
The Cloudlifter is a more robust and powerful option, made in the USA, while FetHead is a simpler and more budget-friendly solution.
Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs - both are great options for the SM7B!
Best Overall And Best Budget Audio Interface For Shure SM7B - Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you need an audio interface for your Shure SM7B, then you can't go wrong with either the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or the Rodecaster Pro 2.
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen is the best budget and best-selling audio interface option, but it may require you to purchase a preamp separately.
The Rodecaster Pro 2 is the more expensive, but the all-in-one home recording option, and is perfect for podcasting, streaming and music production.
Either way, both audio interfaces will give you the high-quality sound you're looking for.
Check out the prices on Amazon today to secure the best audio interface for your Shure SM7B!
Your friend,
Ben
