The Shure SM7B has earned the reputation of being a very popular microphone among podcasters, streamers, and singers due to its melodic tone and adaptability. Nevertheless, the greatest part of its users seldom think about the necessity of some accessories that can actually boost the performance of this legendary microphone. One of the most important instruments is the mic cover. Even if it was made of the most minimalistic design, the cover of the Shure SM7B would always be the main subject of discussions in events when they are, without any doubt, the heroes of the day, both for fuzzy vocal recording clarity and for keeping the microphone safe from mishaps and the passage of time.
Some of the ways the mic covers improve the sound, the specific benefits they bring to the podcasters, streamers, and singers, and how to get one for your appliance are discussed in this post.
Why Mic Covers Matter
Not just a mere accessory, a mic cover is. A cover for a pro mic like the SM7B not only extends its lifetime but also makes the sound better. The main reasons why they matter are:
- Pop and Plosive Protection: A “p” or “b” sound is a short burst of air that hits the microphone’s diaphragm and creates an annoying popping noise. Covers are small diffusion units to make these pops less audible.
- Breath Control: Podcasters and streamers are breathing heavily when working very close to their microphone to their ears. Breathing noises will be quite loud if there is no cover.
- Environmental Defense: Covers protect against spit, moisture, and dust, which can damage the mic capsule over time.
- Tonal Shaping: Different densities of foam could change the sound a little bit. Usually, heavier covers become more mellow, while lighter ones keep brightness intact.
- Comfort and Aesthetics: Streamers’ colorful covers not only work as a functional part but can also be a matching element of their on-screen setup.
The Science Behind Clarity
Even though the Shure SM7B is constructed with an internal pop filter, external covers for the Shure SM7B do still have an impact on the sound that is quite visible. Sound in the air carries with it the whole range of the vibrations—continuous ones (voice tone) and short bursts of air (plosives). A mic cover is a device that absorbs the air molecules that cause the bursts while it allows the tonal vibrations to flow uninterruptedly to the microphone.
Such a process is one of the ways to get a sound that is clean from the sharp spikes, sibilance, or distorted bursts. To put it simply, covers are the filters that do not completely remove the chaos but keep the natural voice quality unchanged.
Benefits for Different Users
Podcasters
The success of a podcast is highly dependent on the frequency of releases and sound quality. In case the recording of your speech will have its sound quality affected by the presence of popping sounds and crackles, your listeners will get bored very fast. Just like the Shure A7WS windscreen, it is a totally reliable product for radio people because it allows a deep and warm voice to be heard with a minimum of interruptions.
Streamers
Streaming is not just audio but also a visual medium. Quality sound is what listeners want, but viewers also check out your setup. Streamers are always using the custom-colored SM7B covers for their own good to make their theme look better while still having plosive protection. The use of a strong cover also frees one from the fear of the accidental break of expensive equipment during a long daily session.
Singers
Singers want to be safe, but they do not want to lose the main features of their voice. A cover that is too thick might only give you the warmth that you want, but it will take away some of the high-end sparkle of your vocals. The Shure RK345 is a good example of a replacement cover that is made in such a way that it gives a balanced solution to the problem of pops and even the preservation of detail. The collaboration of a cover and a pop filter for energetic vocals becomes a maximum spectacle of purity.
Popular Types of Shure SM7B Covers
Shure A7WS Windscreen
- The industry standard for podcasters and radio professionals.
- Designed with a thick design for enhanced warmth and plosive control.
- Perfect for close-talk applications.
Sure RK345 Replacement Covers
- With a slimmer design that does not significantly darken the sound.
- Perfect for singers who want the vocal to be clear and detailed.
- Not too expensive for frequent replacements.
Aftermarket Foam Covers
- Available in a variety of colors and thicknesses.
- Perfect for streamers looking to personalize their brand.
- More budget-friendly in comparison to official options.
Combo Options (Foam + Pop Filter)
- For the cleanest possible sound, particularly in the case of high-energy singing or podcasting.
- Helps not only in plosive control but also in keeping the vocal tone intact.
How to Choose the Right Cover
The right mic cover will depend on your use case:
- For Deep, Broadcast Tone: Opt for Shure A7WS.
- For Balanced Singing: Go with RK345 or lighter foams.
- For On-Camera Branding: Think about using third-party colorful foam covers.
- For High-Energy Recording: Use a foam cover and a pop filter together for total control.
Budget also plays a role. While official Shure covers are more durable, aftermarket covers are more convenient if you need to replace them frequently.
Shure SM7B Covers Maintenance
For your microphone covers to remain safe and effective:
- Use mild soap and water to wash gently. Completely air-dry before using again.
- Do not try to increase the size of the foam or force it by squeezing, as it reduces the lifespan of the material.
- Change the foam yearly or every time it becomes too soft.
- Keep the spare ones in a container free of dust to have them last longer.
Covers, with your help, will deliver their maximum performance when protecting your mic.
Conclusion
For years, the Shure SM7B has clung to a reputation as a really legendary microphone that provides you with iconic sound quality. However, in spite of the best microphones, there are people who do crazy things to their sound by using plosives, breathing noises, or even environmental interference. This is why Shure SM7B covers exist.
Covers have become a necessary accessory for podcasters and streamers presenting their voice with the least amount of noise, changing the sound a bit, and at the same time protecting the microphone. Podcasters get the warm, professional broadcast sound that is very close to radio sound, which their audience wants—and this is what people expect. Streamers receive the security and option of individualization that go together with their brand. Singers are the most accurate recording results without the need of voice cancelling.
Simply put, purchasing the right mic cover is arguably one of the easiest and smartest ways to bring your sound level one step higher. The use of the appropriate Shure SM7B cover allows you to be as clear as possible with this epic microphone, which was made for clarity—thus, precision and tone become the perfect professional finishing touch for your every word, note, and tone.
