Old 02-16-2018, 02:07 PM   #1
fdos
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Default Anyone here use Shure SM7B?

I am looking to get one but looks like I might need to purchase a cloudlifter? Is that necessary or can I get by with the mic plugged into audio interface?
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Old 02-16-2018, 02:12 PM   #2
DeathByGuitar
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I have both an SM7B and a Cloudlifter. Whether or not you need a Cloudlifter depends on if your preamp/interface has enough gain on tap to use the mic properly. Without one I'd have to crank the gain almost all the way up on my Focusrite Saffire Pro 24.
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Old 02-16-2018, 02:15 PM   #3
jonboper
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Here's Shure's answer:

http://www.shure.com/americas/suppor...adat-recording

So, no. Any "high-quality mic preamp" will work. Some probably better than others. The more clean gain the better.
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Old 02-16-2018, 02:23 PM   #4
fdos
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Thanks for the replies. Before I go ahead and make the purchase, is it fair to say that if my Shure Beta 57A works fine with the audio interface, the SM7B will work as well (without needing additional gain)? I have the 57A and can test it out...
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Old 02-16-2018, 05:05 PM   #5
cyrano
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Beta 57 output level = 2.8 mV
SM7B output level = 1.12 mV

You'll need roughly 8 dB more gain for the SM7B...

That's a lot if your preamp is already over 3 o'clock position right now.
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Old 02-16-2018, 06:24 PM   #6
ReaMike
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Unless you're only going to be recording very loud sources a cloudlifter or similar is a good choice for use with budget friendly preamps.

I use a Fethead with my SM7B. A lot of preamps on consumer gear might provide enough gain, but they often don't sound great when pushed to the limit. The cloudlifter or Fethead allow you to run your preamp gain much lower.

The Cloudlifter won't magically give you the headroom of a high end preamp, but if you run sensible recording levels you should be able to get great results.
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Old 02-16-2018, 07:18 PM   #7
fdos
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Thanks everyone, based on this I am going to skip purchasing the SM7B, at least for now. I was pushing my budget at $400 for the mic but spending another $150 for the cloudlifter makes it unreasonably expensive for my purposes. I was going to use it for vocals, but will continue to use my AT2020/Beta 57A.

Cheers!
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Old 02-17-2018, 05:26 PM   #8
Coachz
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My sb7b works fine in my presonus digimax fs preamp. If you are using rock and roll it's fine. If you are a soft singer maybe you'll want more gain.
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