The Shure MV7 is a popular pick among podcasters and musicians and it’s no mystery why. This microphone delivers a rich and crystal clear sound, plus it’s able to marry the digital and analog worlds thanks to its hybrid XLR-USB design. That said, it will cost you a pretty penny.
If you’d rather not empty out your pockets, you might want to consider the budget-friendly Rode PodMic instead. Even though it’s a fraction of the cost, it can still give you that professional sound you’re looking for. To help you decide between these two microphones, here’s an in-depth comparison that covers their design, performance, and additional features.
Rode PodMic vs Shure MV7 Comparison Chart
| Model | Rode PodMic | Shure MV7 |
 |  | |
| Price | Check Price at Amazon | Check Price at Amazon |
| Transducer Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Polar Patter | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20kHz | 50Hz to 16kHz |
| Output Connection | XLR | XLR and USB |
| Weight | 937g | 550g |
Design
The Shure MV7 and the Rode PodMic have completely different looks.
The Shure MV7 has the same oblong silhouette and metallic finish as its predecessor, the Shure SM7B. But it has design elements that are uniquely its own. It has, for example, a screw-on pop filter instead of a metal grille. Removing this filter immediately reveals the dynamic capsule without any other barrier or protection. This filter is detachable only because you can swap it out for other colors but otherwise, it has to be kept on for the microphone to function. As for the capsule, it follows a cardioid pattern and gives out a frequency of 50Hz to 16kHz.
The Rode PodMic, on the other hand, is more cylindrical than oblong. And unlike the Shure MV7, it has a metal grille, underneath which is the internal pop filter and damping material. This gives it a completely different look and provides more protection for the dynamic capsule. Speaking of which, the capsule delivers a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. The only thing the Rode PodMic and the Shure MV7 have in common in the design front is their built-in swivel mount which allows for flexible adjustments and is compatible with any standard mic stand. Unfortunately, neither of them comes with their own stand so be prepared to spend an additional amount for one.
Output Connection
The Shure MV7 is more versatile than the Rode PodMic.
The best thing about the Shure MV7 would have to be the versatility and convenience of being able to switch back and forth between analog and digital. The pros will love it because they can use it via an XLR set-up while beginners can hook it up to their computer via a digital USB connection. What’s great is that you can switch between these two connections as you’re recording and you should get a very similar sound although not 100% identical.
Take note that the Motiv app is only compatible in USB mode so you won’t be able to apply any EQ settings to your XLR recordings. Also, recording via a USB connection typically infuses the sound with some effects while an XLR connection won’t. With that, it’s best to record with as little DSP as possible when you’re in USB mode so that if you do plan to switch over to XLR mode, you’ll get the most similar and seamless sound possible.
As for the Rode PodMic, it’s an analog XLR microphone through and through. While this makes for great sound, the XLR interface might be daunting for beginners. The set-up process isn’t terribly complicated though so it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
Performance
Both the Shure MV7 and the Rode PodMic have quality sound but it’s easier to make tweaks with the former.
Whether you’re recording with the Shure MV7’s XLR or USB connection, you can expect high-quality audio with impressive depth and clarity across the lows, mids, and highs. However, the USB mode gives you the advantage of using the Motiv app and Garageband to achieve different kinds of sounds. You can, for example, make the vocals more compressed if that’s the kind of sound that you prefer. Using the Shure MV7 with the Motiv app is a beginner-friendly experience and you should be able to apply the right kind of DSP in no time. Do note though that while you can record instruments with the Shure MV7, it’s marketed as a podcast mic and is really best for vocals.
As for the Rode PodMic, it’s the real deal too. Experienced podcasters love it for many reasons, starting off with its internal pop filter that reduces plosives. This means that even if you say strong “P” and “K” sounds into the mic, the dynamic capsule won’t be triggered. Another commendable thing about it is its clean and transparent sound, allowing you to achieve a consistent and seamless signal when you’re recording multiple vocalists. The only downside to the Rode PodMic is that it doesn’t come with audio filters so you’d have to use EQ plugins if you want to tweak its sound.
Verdict
The Shure MV7 is more versatile but the Rode PodMic offers better value for money.
While both the Shure MV7 and the Rode PodMic can impress even the most experienced podcasters and vocalists, they come with their own set of pros and cons that you need to consider.
With the Rode PodMic, you get amazing value for money. You can buy two of them and you’d still be spending less than if you were to get one Shure MV7. But despite its low price point, the Rode PodMic impresses with its clear, accurate, and transparent sound and ability to get rid of plosives even without an external pop filter.
That said, there’s no beating the Shure MV7 when it comes to versatility and convenience as it’s able to record in both XLR and USB mode. So if you want the best of both analog and digital worlds and are willing to spend a heftier sum for it, then this mic will serve you well.
FAQs
If you need a versatile mic that will let you switch between XLR and USB modes, the Shure MV7 is worth every penny.
Yes. The Shure MV7 is optimized specifically for speech applications such as singing and podcasting.
No. The Rode PodMic is a purely analog mic and can only be used via an XLR connection.
The Rode PodMic is equipped with a swiveling mount but you’d have to spend extra for a mic stand.