I miss my Blue Yeti.

FrankKane
FrankKane Posts: 1,806 rolemodel rank
in Audio and video solutions

I recently "upgraded" my audio setup to a Shure SM7B from a Blue Yeti. Figured it was time to "go pro."

The Shure SM7B looks great on paper. It's dynamic instead of a condensor, so it should pick up less background noise. Many studio professionals swear by it, and some of my favorite podcasters use it. I mean, even Michael Jackson used it to record "Thriller."

But I miss my Blue Yeti. Somehow the SM7B makes me sound a little nasal, while the Blue Yeti delivered more warmth.

Using a SM7B means also buying a "CloudLifter" device to boost its signal levels, and some sort of mixing board or pre-amp to convert the XLR input into a USB input you can feed into your computer. The Blue Yeti, as a system, was only a fraction of the cost.

Yet I think the Yeti actually sounded better.

Anyone else using a SM7B here? Would love to hear other impressions of it, or tips on how to get the best sound from it.

Comments

  • ScottDuffy
    ScottDuffy Posts: 852 rolemodel rank

    Dynamic mics are known for having a "flatter" sound, while condenser mics sound "more rich".

    How does it affect your courses though? Do you think it even contributes 0.01 to your average review score?

    You could always go back to the Yeti. Or find a condenser you won't be ashamed of. :smileyhappy:

  • GregReverdiau
    GregReverdiau Posts: 791 rolemodel rank

    I found after switching around through several microphones that a little work in post makes it all worth it. Are you tried playing with the equalizer in post to get something you like?

  • FrankKane
    FrankKane Posts: 1,806 rolemodel rank

    Totally right that it is really low on the list of things students actually care about - even less so when they are making a purchase decision. It's a little too easy to geek out on it.

  • FrankKane
    FrankKane Posts: 1,806 rolemodel rank

    Yeah, just boosting the lows a bit on my mixer helped a bit. It also turns out you're supposed to get this particular mic really close - like basically touching it - to get rich sound from it.

  • LawrenceMMiller
    LawrenceMMiller Posts: 2,255 rolemodel rank

    With your voice, Frank, you would sound good coming out of a tin can.

  • SSAA
    SSAA Posts: 192 specialist rank

    I have heard this multiple times. Sometimes it is because the person positions the SM7B the same way as the Blue Yeti. That creates this effect. The SM7B should be way closer to your mouth than the Yeti. And of course, you need a booster. Then it should no longer be nasal. In fact, it should be warmer than the Yeti.

  • SSAA
    SSAA Posts: 192 specialist rank

    For a beginner, I would always advise the Yeti because it is so much easier to work with, but as you progress, a dynamic mic (and the SM7B is just an example and in no way the only one or best one) is a must. But it is more of a hassle. You can't just plug it into a laptop and press record.

  • FrankKane
    FrankKane Posts: 1,806 rolemodel rank

    Since I wrote this 4 years ago, I've learned to love my Shure SM7B. The key was just getting really close to it, and having it on a boom arm helps make that possible.

    I still use a Blue Yeti when I'm on the road though; its simplicity can be a lifesaver sometimes.

  • SSAA
    SSAA Posts: 192 specialist rank

    Let this be a lesson for all: dynamic mics close to the mouth.....condensor mics two fists away at a 45 degree angle.

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