The Shure SM7B microphone is a favorite among podcasters, streamers, and music producers. It's no surprise, given its ability to deliver rich, warm vocal tones that make your voice sound incredible. To really unlock its full potential, you need one of the best audio interfaces for Shure SM7B.
One cool feature of the SM7B is its cardioid pattern. This means it does a great job at keeping background noise out and focusing on the sound you actually want to capture. It’s no surprise that it has become a top choice among producers, especially for close-up voice work and a wide range of musical projects.
However, there is a bit of a catch. The SM7B has a low output level, which means you’ll need a good preamp to boost the signal. That’s why choosing the right audio interface is so important. The right one not only gives you the extra gain you need but also helps you get the most out of the mic for any recording task.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best audio interfaces for your Shure SM7B. We’ll walk you through the key features to look for, the challenges you might encounter, and our top recommendations so you can be ready to get great sound from your Shure SM7B mic.
Quick Summary of the Best Audio Interfaces for Shure SM7b
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Interface - Best Overall Interface for Shure SM7b
- Audient Audio Interface iD4 MKII - Best XLR Interface for Shure SM7B
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 - Best Budget Interface for Shure SM7b
- Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 - Best for Versatility
- Solid State Logic SSL 2 USB Interface - Best Audio Interface for Shure SM7B Without Cloudlifter
- Shure MVi Digital Audio Interface - Best for Portability
Challenges of Using Shure SM7B with Audio Interfaces
The Shure SM7B is known for its low gain, meaning it needs a strong audio interface preamp to boost the signal for clear recordings. If you’re using an low-powered interface, you might run into a few issues.
Some of the common challenges include:
- Weak signal, resulting in quiet recordings
- Increased background noise
- Distorted audio
To tackle these issues, it's important to choose an audio interface that pairs well with the Shure SM7B. The right setup can make all the difference in getting the best recording quality.
Best Audio Interfaces for Shure SM7B
We’ve put together a list of the best audio interfaces for your Shure SM7B. Take a look and see which one fits your needs.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Interface
This interface is a great choice for SM7B users who want quality and versatility.
Pros
- Easy setup and use
- High-quality preamps
- Useful software bundle
Cons
- Heavy build
- USB cable compatibility issues
- Only 2 inputs
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Interface really impressed us, especially when paired with the Shure SM7B microphone.
Setting it up was a breeze. It connected to our Mac right away, and we had no issues getting it up and running. The build quality feels solid and durable, though it is a bit on the heavy side, which might be a downside if you’re a musician on the move.
One small hiccup we ran into was with the USB cable. The one included worked fine with a Windows system, but we had to buy a separate USB-C cable for our Mac.
The Scarlett 2i2’s preamps are excellent. They delivered ultra-low noise and clear sound with our Shure SM7B. Plus, it has a cool feature called Air mode that adds a bit more character to your recordings.
The Hitmaker Expansion software bundle that comes with it is a nice bonus, offering a variety of plugins and tools to enhance your recordings. However, the interface only has two inputs, which might be limiting if you’re planning larger recording projects.
If you’re interested in more options, check out our focusrite bundle recommendations for additional setups that might suit your needs.
Overall, we highly recommend the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen for Shure SM7B users. It delivers great sound quality, versatility, and a useful software package. While it has a few minor drawbacks, they don’t take away from its value as a fantastic audio interface.
Audient Audio Interface iD4 MKII
You'll love the top-notch performance and durability of this interface, perfect for your Shure SM7B.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Sturdy build
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limited connectivity options
- Jack connectors not fixed on the casing
- One-knob control can be frustrating
The Audient iD4 MKII Audio Interface offers a Class A console microphone preamp that delivers outstanding sound quality for home recording. Its compact, all-metal design not only makes it durable but also portable, so you can easily take it wherever you go.
With a high-speed USB-C connector, the iD4 MKII ensures easy setup and a more reliable power supply. No more juggling different cables! However, it’s important to note that this interface has fewer connectivity options compared to other models. Audient kept things simple with a one-knob control, which might feel a bit limiting at times, but some users may appreciate its minimalist design.
Overall, we’re really impressed with the iD4 MKII's performance and reliability. It’s a fantastic choice for any aspiring musician or producer looking to take their recording experience with the Shure SM7B to the next level.
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
This budget-friendly, portable audio interface is perfect for basic recording needs.
Pros
- Great value
- 2 high-quality mic preamps
- Mobile-friendly (USB 2.0)
Cons
- Limited to 2 channels
- USB 2.0 connectivity
- No individual phantom power
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a fantastic little device, especially considering its price of just 99 dollars. It’s equipped with two high-quality Class-A mic preamps, delivering impressive sound quality without breaking the bank. Plus, its USB 2.0 connectivity, MIDI I/O, and studio-grade converters that deliver 24-bit/96 kHz recording make it a great find for musicians on a budget.
One feature we really like is the mix control, which lets you blend input and playback for a perfect monitor mix without any latency. Its sturdy and rugged exterior means you can toss it in your bag and take it with you wherever you go, so you can make music anytime, anywhere.
While we’re big fans of this product, it’s not without its flaws. The limited channel count and lack of individual phantom power might be drawbacks for some. But for the price, we think the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is an excellent pick for aspiring artists, producers, and singer-songwriters looking to get started.
Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2
An excellent choice for recording with your Shure SM7B with high-quality sound and flexibility.
Pros
- High-quality sound
- Two combi-XLR/jack inputs
- Versatile connectivity
Cons
- No direct monitoring
- Limited to Windows 10 support
- Low output levels
The Native Instruments Komplete Audio 2 is an excellent choice for pairing with your Shure SM7B. The sound quality is top-notch, and it's easy to connect with two combi-XLR/jack inputs.
What really stands out is its versatility. Whether you’re hooking up to studio monitors or plugging in on stage with dual jack outputs, this interface has you covered. However, keep in mind that it doesn’t offer direct monitoring, which might be a downside for some.
Another thing to consider is that the Komplete Audio 2 is only compatible with Windows 10, so if you’re running an older operating system, you might need to upgrade. The output levels might also be a bit lower than expected. But overall, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks, making it a solid choice for your recording setup.
Solid State Logic SSL 2 USB Interface
This audio interface delivers top-notch sound quality, making it worth your consideration.
Pros
- Exceptional mic preamps
- High-quality connectors and pots
- Powerful headphone amp
Cons
- Bad cord in some cases
- Software compatibility issues
- Not the most affordable option
The Solid State Logic SSL 2 USB Interface delivers outstanding sound quality, thanks to its two class-leading mic preamps. It also comes with pro-studio quality Neutrik connectors and Alps pots, making it a durable and reliable choice.
One feature that really impressed us is the high-current headphone amp, which provides plenty of power for your monitoring needs. Plus, the 24-bit/192 kHz AKM converters ensure your recordings sound crystal clear.
But it’s not all perfect. While the interface works well with the SSL Production Pack, you might run into compatibility issues with other software. It’s also priced higher than some other interfaces, which could be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget.
Overall, the Solid State Logic SSL 2 USB Interface is a solid investment if you’re looking for top-tier sound quality and powerful features. Just be ready to spend a bit more, and make sure everything is compatible with your setup.
Shure MVi Digital Audio Interface
A must-have for Shure SM7B users, this portable interface offers high-quality audio capture and versatile DSP presets.
Pros
- Compact design for easy portability
- 5 DSP preset modes for various recording situations
- Onboard touch panel controls
Cons
- No software for PC users
- Cord length may be too short for some
- Lacks physical buttons
The Shure MVi Digital Audio Interface is a great match for recording with your Shure SM7B mic. It’s a real game-changer. Its compact design means you can easily toss it in your backpack or gig bag and take it wherever you go.
The MVi comes with five different DSP preset modes, including settings for speech, singing, flat, acoustic instruments, and loud sounds. So, whether you’re recording vocals, guitar, or a live performance, there’s a preset to help you capture it perfectly.
A feature we really like is the touch panel control, which lets you quickly adjust gain, mute, and headphone volume on the fly. While some might miss the feel of physical buttons, we found the touch controls to be both handy and responsive.
However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. There’s no software available for PC users, which could be a drawback if you’re not using iOS or Android devices. And while the cord works fine, it could be a bit longer to give you more flexibility during recording sessions.
Overall, the Shure MVi Digital Audio Interface is a reliable and portable solution for SM7B users. Despite a few minor drawbacks, its strengths make it a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their recordings on the go.
What to Consider When Choosing an Audio Interface for Shure SM7B
Gain Requirement
To get the best out of your Shure SM7B, we highly recommend audio interfaces with at least 60dB of gain in the preamp. That way, you’ll have a clean signal boost for your mic.
Audio Quality
For top-notch audio quality, look for interfaces with high-quality converters (both analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog). These will capture your sound with precision, without adding any unwanted color.
Connectivity Options
We recommend going with USB-C for its speed and power delivery. But, USB 2.0 works well too, so consider your computer’s available ports when choosing an interface.
Input and Output Options
Think about how many XLR inputs, headphone jacks, and speaker outputs you’ll need. You may want to record other instruments simultaneously, like a guitar, so make sure your interface has enough inputs to handle it.
Additional Features
As a nice extra, look for features like MIDI input/output, a quality headphone jack, and monitor mix controls. These can elevate your recording experience, but they’re not must-haves.
Final Thoughts
So, we’ve learned that the Shure SM7B requires a specific type of audio interface due to its low output and high gain needs. You’ll want to look for features like high-quality preamps, enough gain without adding noise, good connectivity options, and handy extras like low-latency monitoring.
It’s important to match your audio interface with both the Shure SM7B and your particular recording setup. The right interface can make a huge difference in your recording quality and overall satisfaction.
If you’re looking for the best overall interface for your Shure SM7B, we highly recommend the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB Interface. It offers a perfect blend of quality, versatility, and ease of use. For those on a budget, the PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is an excellent choice, providing solid performance without breaking the bank.
Think of choosing an audio interface as an investment in your audio production. Consider your future needs and potential upgrades to ensure your setup will serve you well in the long run.
Remember the recommended audio interfaces we covered, as they were chosen for their ability to meet the SM7B’s specific gain and quality needs. If you can, try out different interfaces to hear the differences yourself. And feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Shure SM7B without an audio interface?
No, you’ll need an audio interface to use the SM7B. The interface is crucial for converting the analog signal from the microphone into digital audio that your computer can work with.
Can I use a microphone booster like a Cloudlifter instead of a high-gain interface?
Yes, you can use a Cloudlifter with a low-gain interface. It helps boost the signal from the SM7B, improving your recording quality.
Do I need a Cloudlifter if I have an audio interface?
Not necessarily. If your audio interface provides enough gain, you won’t need a Cloudlifter. However, if the gain is on the lower side, adding a Cloudlifter can be a good idea.
Can I connect the SM7B directly to a computer without an interface?
No, you can’t connect the SM7B directly to your computer. An audio interface is needed to convert the signal and make the connection work.
Do I need an audio interface with phantom power for the SM7B?
No, the SM7B doesn’t need phantom power. You just need an audio interface that can provide enough gain to use the microphone effectively.