Welcome to the ultimate studio microphone showdown! In this article, we’re comparing two heavyweights: the Rode Procaster and the Shure SM7B.
Quick Answer: The Rode Procaster is a better microphone if you’re seeking clear and detailed microphone at a lower price. The Shure SM7B stands out for its warm and rich sound signature, versatility, and reputation as an industry-standard microphone, at a higher price..
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Comparison
When comparing the Rode Procaster and the Shure SM7B microphones, it’s crucial to weigh their respective features and performance to determine which one best suits your recording needs. Both microphones are highly regarded in the industry and are favored by professionals and content creators for their outstanding sound quality and durability.
The Rode Procaster is known for its clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it a popular choice for podcasting, broadcasting, and vocal recording. It features a cardioid polar pattern and includes an internal shock mounting system, which helps reduce handling noise and ensures smooth, professional-grade audio output. Additionally, the Procaster offers a built-in pop filter to minimize plosive sounds, further enhancing its suitability for vocal recording applications. The frequency response of the Procaster allows it to have more clairty compared to other dynamic microphones.
On the other hand, the Shure SM7B has earned a reputation as an industry-standard microphone, renowned for its warm and rich sound signature. It excels in capturing vocals with depth and clarity, making voices sound smooth and professional. The SM7B also features a cardioid polar pattern and includes advanced features such as a detachable windscreen and switchable frequency response settings, allowing for greater versatility in different recording environments.
The Rode Procaster and the Shure SM7B both offer exceptional sound quality and performance, making them excellent choices for professional audio recording applications.
The Rode Procaster may appeal to users seeking clear and detailed sound reproduction with built-in pop filter protection at a lower price. The Shure SM7B stands out for its warm and rich sound signature, versatility, and reputation as an industry-standard microphone.
Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific recording preferences and budget considerations.
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Report Card
Here is a breakdown of our testing with the Rode Procaster and Shure SM7B in the context of podcasting, streaming, and vocal recording. For more detail on our testing, see the video at the top of the page.
Procaster | SM7B | |
Build Quality | ✅ | ✅ |
Plosives | 🟡 | ✅ |
Noise Rejection | ✅ | ✅ |
Handling Noise | 🟢 | 🟢 |
Frequency Response | ✅ | ✅ |
Price / Value | ✅ | 🟢 |
✅ = Excellent 🟢 = Fair 🟡 = Needs Help ❌ = Unusable
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Specs
Rode Procaster | Shure SM7B | |
Connector | XLR | XLR |
Transducer | Dynamic | Dynamic |
Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
Address Type | End | End |
Frequency Response | 75Hz-18kHz | 50Hz-20kHz |
Sensitivity | -56dB | -59 dB |
Max SPL | N/A | 180 dB |
Weight | 745g (1.6 lbs) | 764g (1.69 lbs) |
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Frequency Response
Here are the frequency response charts for the Rode Procaster and Shure SM7B
Our Recommendation (Procaster vs SM7B)
Here is our recommendation. If you are looking for the best value between the Rode Procaster and the Shure SM7B, we think that you should get the Rode Procaster.
When comparing these two microphones, the only reason to buy the Shure SM7B is if you need better noise rejection.
- Most Natural: Rode Procaster
- Best Value: Rode Procaster
- Best Noise Rejection: Shure SM7B
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Pricing
- Shure SM7B: https://currentprice.io/shure_sm7b
- Rode Procaster: http://currentprice.io/procaster
- Procaster Foam: https://currentprice.io/podmic_foam
- Rode NTH-100 Headphones: https://currentprice.io/nth-100
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm: http://currentprice.io/psa1_plus
- Quality Acoustic Treatment Panels: http://currentprice.io/soundpanels
Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:24 – Microphone Setup
- 0:58 – Microphone Pricing
- 1:11 – Build Quality
- 3:08 – Microphone Specs
- 3:48 – Frequency Response
- 5:55 – Plosive Test
- 6:25 – Background Noise Test
- 6:44 – White Noise Test / Off-Axis Rejection
- 7:20 – Handling Noise
- 7:42 – Tap Test
- 7:58 – Audio Processing (EQ, Compression, Etc.)
- 8:40 – Blind Test
- 9:16 – Rode Procaster vs Shure SM7B
- 15:04 – Recommendation
- 16:10 – Final Thoughts
