Microphones
Rode PodMicvsShure SM7B
Compare Rode PodMic and Shure SM7B side by side. See pricing, features, and which is right for your podcast.
Pricing Comparison
| Tier | Rode PodMic | Shure SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Price | PodMic (XLR): $99 PodMic USB: $209 | $439 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Rode PodMic | Shure SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | XLR | XLR |
| Polar Pattern | cardioid | cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz | 50Hz-20kHz |
| Headphone Jack | ||
| Gain Control | ||
| Mute Button | ||
| Includes Stand | ||
| Max SPL | 180 |
Rode PodMic Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for broadcast quality
- Built-in internal pop filter
- Tank-like construction
Cons
- No stand included
- USB version twice the price
- XLR version needs interface
Shure SM7B Pros & Cons
Pros
- Warm, full broadcast sound that needs little processing
- Rejects room noise and off-axis sound well, so an untreated room is forgiving
- Internal shock isolation cuts desk and boom-arm thumps
Cons
- Needs about 60dB of clean gain, so a booster or a high-gain interface is usually required
- XLR only, so an audio interface is a separate purchase
- $439 is a lot for a first microphone
The Verdict
Rode PodMic is best for:
- →Podcasters on a budget
- →Those wanting broadcast quality affordably
- →Streamers and content creators
Shure SM7B is best for:
- →Podcasters who already have a good preamp
- →Home studios with some acoustic treatment
- →People upgrading from a USB mic
Frequently asked questions
- Which is cheaper: Rode PodMic or Shure SM7B?
- Rode PodMic costs less. Both are one-time purchases: PodMic (XLR) is $99 against $439 for SM7B.