Do you need a shock mount with the Shure SM7B?
We put this guide together to show you everything you need to know to ensure your Shure SM7B has proper isolation from taps, bumps and other vibrations.
Quick Answer: No, the Shure SM7B doesn’t need a shock mount. The SM7B has enough internal shock mounting to isolate the microphone from vibrations properly. We recommend using a microphone boom arm if you need extra isolation.
Does The Shure SM7B Need A Shock Mount?
The Shure SM7B is a popular and versatile microphone commonly used for recording vocals, podcasts, and other audio applications. It is a dynamic microphone, which means that it uses a moving coil to generate an audio signal, and it has a built-in pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and breath noises.
A shock mount is a device that attaches to a microphone and helps to isolate it from external vibrations and movements. Shockmounts are commonly used in recording and broadcast applications. They can help reduce handling noise, footfalls, and other low-frequency vibrations that can affect the audio signal quality.
The Shure SM7B does not require a shock mount to function properly. The microphone has a robust built-in internal shock-mount system that helps to isolate the capsule and reduce vibrations and handling noise. This internal shock-mount system is designed to provide a high degree of isolation and is sufficient for most recording situations.
Related: Complete Shure SM7B Setup Guide
Mic Stand For Shure SM7B
Although the Shure SM7B doesn’t need a shock mount, you will need a mic stand. A mic stand can add additional isolation for your SM7B.
If you’re looking for a mic stand for the Shure SM7B, you have two options:
- Table Stand
- Boom Arm
Table Mic Stand
A table mic stand is a microphone stand designed to be placed on a table or other flat surface. It is a compact and lightweight stand typically used for recording podcasts, voiceovers, and other applications where a microphone needs to be placed close to the speaker or source.
Table mic stands can take up valuable space and offer no sound isolation.
- Pros
- Inexpensive
- Easy To Use
- Cons
- It takes up valuable desk space
- No additional sound isolation
Microphone Boom Arm
A microphone boom arm is a device used to support and position a microphone in a recording or broadcast application. Microphone boom arms allow the microphone to be positioned close to the sound source, such as a speaker or instrument. They can easily adjust to achieve the desired recording angle and sound quality.
Not only do microphone boom arms give you better positioning, but they provide better isolation from the table. This can prevent taps, bumps, and movement from vibrating through the table into your microphone.
Our favorite microphone boom arm is the Rode PSA1+
- Pros
- It doesn’t take up desk space
- Adds additional sound isolation
- Cons
- More expensive
Shure SM7B & Shockmount FAQ
Does The Shure SM7B Need A Shockmount?
No, the Shure SM7B does not need a shock mount. The SM7B has an internal shock mounting system that effectively removes vibration in most situations.
How Can I Improve Shockmounting For The Shure SM7B
If you need to isolate the Shure SM7B from the table, you can use a boom arm like the Rode PSA1+ with additional shock absorption material to isolate the Shure SM7B from its environment.
Is A Microphone Shock Mount Worth It?
A shock mount is a good investment for condenser microphones. For dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7B, it’s not necessary.
What boom arm works with the Shure SM7B
You need a high-quality boom arm for the Shure SM7B to support its weight. Some boom arms require a 3″ extension tube (Shure A26X) to improve the ergonomics. We love using the Rode PSA1+ with the Shure SM7B, it’s our favorite boom arm.
Final Thoughts
The Shure SM7B is a highly effective and versatile microphone that does not require a shock mount but can benefit from a microphone boom arm for additional isolation and better microphone positioning.
