You don't have to be an acoustics expert to know that Shure makes killer audio gear. You've probably seen your favorite musicians using Shure microphones on stage or in the studio, and Shure has long offered professional-grade microphones, and the MV 7 Podcast microphone is an attempt to bring that high-end sound to content creators.

The USB Type-B Micro/XLR connection will be a big draw for many, with the adaptability of XLR (especially when using professional audio interfaces) and the versatility of the Type-B Micro input for recording on the go with laptops and mobile devices. It combines the best of both worlds by offering versatility.

The MV7 microphone is for content creators who want to take their production value to a professional level, but do not want to or cannot spend professional-grade money. This is why XLR microphones are hard to recommend for streaming, podcasting, and gaming. [Especially if you need a USB audio interface (some XLR mics require phantom power), which can cost $500 or more. So for $250, having a hybrid USB/XLR mic is not that big a ask, given the flexibility of the Shure MV7 to use both.

Inside the box are Micro Type-B to USB Type-C and Micro Type-B to USB Type-A cables. This is useful if you are recording on the go with your phone and don't want to pick up ambient noise. If you have ever conducted an interview at a convention or trade show or tried to record audio in a crowded place, you know how easy it is to pull out your phone and try to record, only to have your subject drowned out by the noise of the crowd.

Like when I interviewed a Halo 5 developer at an event in 2015 and my recording was rendered useless because the press corps of humanity was singing The Weeknd's "Can't Feel My Face" loudly throughout most of the interview. Sigh.

Available in black or silver, the MV7 follows the look of Shure's studio microphones, without the RGB LEDs or particularly "gamer" design choices, and is simple and elegant... Shure's very popular broadcast microphone, which costs about It appears to be a scaled-down version of the SM7B, which sells for $400.

It seems odd that it doesn't come with a microphone stand (that version costs an extra $10), so you'll need to attach it to a boom arm; Shure's website lists a number of options, including headphones, a Lightning cable (for recording with Apple devices), and a boom arm. does a decent job of providing different accessory combinations if you need something like that. However, the costs begin to add up quickly.

Compared to other high-end microphones like the Blue Yeti X, Hyper X Quadcast, and Elgato Wave 3, you will find that the Shure sounds almost identical to the Elgato and does a good job of not picking up ambient noise right out of the box. In fact, the Wave 3 is probably the closest competitor to the MV7 than the Yeti X or Quadcast. The microphone itself does a great job of isolating my voice while ignoring the loud hum of my desktop PC, air conditioner, and other background ambient noises. I can hear a fairly loud wheeze, so you might want to invest in a windshield or not put the microphone directly in front of you when recording.

The MV7 makes it relatively easy to fine-tune the sound by utilizing the ShurePlus Motiv software. From here, one can add compression to the voice, adjust the EQ, or add a limiter. One unobtrusive feature is the auto-level mode; we've seen similar features on other microphones, such as the Elgato Wave 3, which basically prevents you from hitting red. This is especially useful if your content contains a lot of shouting, singing, or both. Now there is no need to worry about the viewer's eardrums bursting from the fear of jumping in "Phasmophobia". It is also recommended for audio novices and those whose recording locations are not acoustically suitable.

The Shure MV7 Podcast Microphone is the perfect microphone for anyone looking for a serious upgrade. If you are a musician or just want to hear your voice sound the way it should, the MV7 is an easy recommendation.

Shure's first XLR/USB hybrid microphone successfully delivers professional-grade sound with minimal setup and expertise. Although more expensive than the average high-end microphone, its versatility completely justifies the cost.