The Shure SM7B and the Blue Yeti are two of the most popular microphones for podcasting and recording. Both microphones offer excellent sound quality, but there are some key differences between the two that may make one a better choice for you than the other.
Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone, which means that it uses a coil of wire and a magnet to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser microphones, but they are also better at rejecting background noise.
The SM7B is a popular choice for podcasters and broadcasters because it has a warm, rich sound that is well-suited for human voice. The SM7B also has a built-in pop filter, which helps to reduce plosives (popping sounds caused by hard consonants like “p” and “b”).
Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is a condenser microphone, which uses a thin diaphragm to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Condenser microphones are more sensitive than dynamic microphones, but they are also more susceptible to background noise.
The Yeti is a popular choice for podcasters and streamers because it is versatile and affordable. The Yeti has four pickup patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, and stereo. This allows you to use the Yeti for a variety of different recording scenarios, such as solo podcasts, interviews, and group recordings.
Comparison
Here is a table comparing the Shure SM7B and the Blue Yeti:
| Feature | Shure SM7B | Blue Yeti |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic | Condenser |
| Pickup pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, stereo |
| Frequency response | 50 Hz – 20 kHz | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | -59 dBV/Pa | -12 dBV/Pa |
| Impedance | 150 ohms | 1000 ohms |
| Weight | 1.69 lbs | 1.4 lbs |
| Price | More expensive | More affordable |
Which microphone should you choose?
If you are looking for a microphone with a warm, rich sound that is well-suited for human voice and good at rejecting background noise, then the Shure SM7B is the better choice. If you are looking for a versatile and affordable microphone with a variety of pickup patterns, then the Blue Yeti is the better choice.
Additional considerations
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing between the Shure SM7B and the Blue Yeti:
- Budget: The Shure SM7B is more expensive than the Blue Yeti.
- Recording environment: If you are recording in a noisy environment, then the Shure SM7B is the better choice because it is better at rejecting background noise.
- Pickup patterns: If you need a microphone with a variety of pickup patterns, then the Blue Yeti is the better choice.
- Features: The Shure SM7B has a built-in pop filter, while the Blue Yeti does not.
Ultimately, the best way to choose between the two microphones is to try them both out and see which ones you prefer.
Here are some additional insights into the two microphones:
- The Shure SM7B is a popular choice for professional broadcasters and podcasters because of its warm, rich sound and excellent noise rejection. It is also a good choice for home studios, but it requires a preamp or mixer to power it.
- The Blue Yeti is a popular choice for beginners and budget-minded podcasters because it is versatile and affordable. It is also a good choice for streamers and YouTubers.
If you are still not sure which microphone is right for you, I recommend reading reviews and watching comparison videos online. You can also try renting both microphones and seeing which one you prefer before you buy.
