Shure MV7X XLR Dynamic Podcast Microphone

• Highly directional cardioid dynamic capsule, optimized for spoken word
• Voice Isolation Technology: capsule, rear rejection and shock mount work together
• Passive XLR output, compatible with audio interfaces and mixers
• All-metal construction and built-in adjustable yoke
• 5/8"-27 thread, the size found on most mic stands and boom arms

Plenty of podcasts are recorded in a bedroom or a living room. Shure therefore gave the MV7X the same approach as the MV7: a fully passive system of engineered airflow and a robust shock mount, paired with a capsule that brings out vocal clarity and rejects what arrives from behind. The stated goal: less street traffic, air conditioner hum and room echo in the recording.

The big difference from the MV7 is the connection. The MV7 offers a USB port and an XLR output; the MV7X has XLR only, which makes it more affordable and well suited to equipping several voices, like a podcast with guests. Getting it into the computer takes an audio interface or a digital recorder with an XLR input. Shure also presents it as a more affordable option than its SM7B vocal mic, and as the natural companion to an MV7 already in use.

The built-in yoke screws onto a stand or hangs from a boom arm. Loosening its knobs lets the mic be angled as needed; to flip it 180 degrees, loosen the screws without removing them. According to Shure's guide, the black windscreen, sold as a replacement part, offers maximum protection from plosives and a warmer, more intimate sound for speech.

• Multi-voice podcast, one mic per guest on the same interface
• Narration and voice-over in an office or living room
• Live streaming and gaming, plugged into an audio interface
• Sung vocal takes in a setup that is already XLR

Other XLR dynamic microphones for spoken word, from other manufacturers. Data as published by each manufacturer.

Does the MV7X need phantom power?

No. It is a dynamic mic with a passive XLR output; according to Shure, a dynamic mic has no active electronics and so does not use phantom power. Shure adds that phantom power will not damage a modern dynamic mic in the vast majority of cases, and advises turning it off before plugging or unplugging a mic.

Is the MV7X a dynamic or a condenser microphone?

Dynamic, moving coil, with a cardioid pattern.

Can the MV7X plug straight into a computer over USB?

No, it has no USB port. It connects to the computer through an audio interface or a digital recorder with an XLR input. For a direct USB connection, the MV7 is the one to get.

What is the difference between the MV7X and the MV7?

The connection: the MV7 offers USB and XLR, the MV7X XLR only. Both share the same capsule and the same Voice Isolation Technology, hence a similar sound.