Occasionally a product comes along that makes me happy and frustrated at the same time. The Shure MV7i is one of these products. I’m happy because it’s an incredible microphone that should not be ignored. I’m frustrated because I wish it would have been available 10 years ago. In this review I’ll be taking a look at the innovation behind the Shure MV7i, why it’s a must have for content creators, and the overall sound quality of the microphone. Buckle up. Let’s go.
Innovation
The Shure MV7i is an XLR mic (or instrument) that doesn’t need an external audio interface. Yes, you read that correctly. The interface is already built into the mic itself. This means I can get professional quality audio without all the extra crap sitting on my desk. My original audio interface was a Presonus. It wasn’t huge, but it added more clutter which I hate. The fact that Shure came up with a solid microphone that removes this need is quite an accomplishment and a needed one at that.
Shure could have just left the microphone alone with this feature and a lot of people would be happy. They didn’t stop there. This microphone also features USB capabilities allowing users to connect it to a cell phone or other device for recording content as well. In fact, it’s a two-channel recording device. Meaning, I can even connect two things at once. If I want to plug in my guitar through XLR and record vocals through the mic at the same time, I can do that. To top it off, I can do that on my phone or computer. While I realize the term game-changer is cliche and overused in today’s reviews, this microphone puts an emphasis on it.
Quality
The audio quality on the vast majority of Shure microphones is going to be good. I think we know this. After all, this is the company that arguably made the best vocal mic of all time in the SM-58. It’s really no surprise to learn that the Shure MV7i records and processes some phenomenal audio quality.
The all-metal design and easy adjustability allow for quick adjustments for an optimal setup. Even when I connect a 1/4″ instrument cable for dual channel recording, I’m impressed with how durable everything is. It isn’t just durable though, it sounds amazing. The mic uses Voice Isolation tech and “DSP” features to virtually block out any background noise. I’ve now seen several professional podcasts where these mics and the MV7X+ are being used. It’s no wonder that Shure is winning awards at CES for this design. It only takes recording a video with a cell phone mic and comparing a similar recording using the MV7i to immediately hear the difference.
Fav Features
Sound quality is certainly tops with the MV7i, but there is a lot more to this microphone. I have to say it again. The fact I can get 2-channel recording out of a single mic without an Audio interface is simply amazing. That aside, the Shure MV7i allows instant mute by simply tapping the LED panel. A red-light indicator tells me when I’m muted.
Additionally, for those who don’t love adjusting gain etc. Auto Level Mode is pretty sweet because it adjusts mic gain based on the distance from the mic itself. This helps with volume and the acoustics of the type of room I am in, so my recordings still come out relatively clear even in terrible acoustics. The MV7i is compatible with PC, Mac, Apple, Android, and other devices that use USB-C. Basically, everyone is covered.
I also downloaded the Motiv app which takes a bit of getting used to but allows for some great recording options on the fly with my Android phone. I’m still a bit stunned at the audio difference when I record videos. This mic is packed full of features and makes recording a literal blast while using it.
Summing it up
The Shure MV7i is an impressive yet slightly frustrating microphone – only because it wasn’t available sooner. As an XLR mic with a built-in audio interface, it eliminates the need for extra hardware, reducing clutter while maintaining top-tier sound quality. Additionally, its USB capabilities allow seamless connection to phones and computers, enabling two-channel recording for instruments and vocals simultaneously. Shure’s renowned audio excellence shines through with Voice Isolation tech and DSP features that minimize background noise, making it a favorite for professional podcasters. The MV7i’s standout features include instant mute via an LED panel, Auto Level Mode for optimal gain adjustment, and broad compatibility across multiple devices. Paired with the Motiv app, it enhances both PC/Mac and mobile recording, delivering an incredible experience for content creators.