SM57 will suffice the overwhelmingly majority of folks. In terms of gaming, streaming, Youtube, etc. If anything, buy one of these second hand/open box first. You will need additional gear for the sm7b.
Comparison
Music & Instruments
Shure SM7B Microphone
Best for Untreated Rooms
The Shure SM7B is an industry-standard dynamic microphone renowned for broadcast and studio use. It delivers exceptional room rejection in untreated spaces but requires additional amplification equipment for optimal performance.
6 mentions · 2 threadslast mention Apr 2026ClearPick Score
7.8 / 10
Decent
Score informed by 6 owner mentions across 2 Reddit threads · see every quote ↓
3 positive2 mixed1 negative
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Best for Untreated Rooms
Shure SM7B Microphone
$569.00 CAD est. on Amazon.ca
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✅ Prime eligible (most orders)
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Every mention, sourced
Real comments from Reddit, linked to the original thread. Nothing paraphrased.
I just got it and I love it. I have the Røde NT1 as well, but sm7b is just so much better for me (non treated room)
Praise
I'd be careful on ebay/marketplaces a lot of fakes going around
Complaint
The SM7B has a diaphragm that is slightly different and optimized for increased low-end response. This difference contributes to the SM7B's warmer sound profile compared to the SM57.
Comparison
One of my favorite things to share is that an sm7 was used on the thriller album when people think these are podcaster mics.
Mention
CAD E200 is the best sounding mic on my voice, ever, no contest. I worked at a recording school and had access to loads of really nice mics, none of them did the job like the E200. 2nd best is the SM7B.
Comparison
✅ What Works
- Exceptional room rejection and noise handling in untreated spaces
- Industry-standard broadcast heritage; used on countless classic recordings
- Warm, balanced tone with enhanced low-end response ideal for vocals
- Rugged, professional-grade construction with electromagnetic shielding
- Precise cardioid pattern keeps vocals centered while rejecting ambient noise
⚠️ Worth Knowing
- Requires significant preamp gain; most users need a Cloudlifter or high-gain interface (adds $100–200)
- Counterfeit units common on marketplace sellers; purchase from authorized dealers only
ClearPick Verdict
Owners consistently praise the SM7B for exceptional room rejection in untreated spaces and its legendary broadcast pedigree — it's a studio standard for a reason. The most cited friction point is that it requires significant preamp gain; most users pair it with a Cloudlifter or high-gain interface to avoid noise floor issues, adding $100–200 to the total cost. Counterfeit units circulate through marketplace sellers, so buy from authorized dealers only. If you can afford the complete setup and need unforgiving room rejection, the SM7B is worth it; if you're budget-constrained, consider the Shure SM57 as a more affordable alternative.