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Rode NT1 vs Shure MV7: Overview of expert opinions

The Rode NT1 microphone is better suited for studio-quality recordings of vocals and instruments, with a focus on clarity and accuracy. It is ideal for those who prioritize sound quality and noise reduction over physical durability. The Rode NT1 is compatible with professional audio interfaces and mixers with XLR inputs, making it a reliable option for those who want to focus on their recording without worrying about technical difficulties.

The Shure MV7 microphone is specifically designed for voice and speech recording, making it a great option for podcasting, live streams, vocals for songs, and voice-over for video content. It offers a clear and crisp audio quality and is capable of capturing a full frequency range with clarity, making your voice shine.

The Shure MV7 is highly effective at rejecting off-axis sounds and background noise, making it a better option for recording in noisy environments. It is also more durable than the Rode NT1 due to its all-metal design, shock mount, and heavier weight. The Shure MV7 is a versatile option with dual connectivity options with USB and XLR, and includes a headphone jack for real-time monitoring.

It is recommended for those who need a microphone that can withstand wear and tear or may be prone to accidents. It is also better for on-the-go recordings as it can be used with both iOS and Android devices.

Table of contents (click on an item)

Sound Quality
The Rode NT1 is ideal for capturing a wide range of frequencies with a natural sound, while the Shure MV7 is specifically designed for voice and speech recording with clear and crisp audio quality.
Click to jump to the Sound Quality comparison
Directionality
The Rode NT1 is better for recording in a controlled environment with high clarity and accuracy, while the Shure MV7 is ideal for recording in noisy environments or for podcasting with its noise-cancelling feature.
Click to jump to the Directionality comparison
Connectivity
The Shure MV7 microphone is a more versatile option with dual connectivity options and a headphone jack, while the Rode NT1 is better for those who need effects and quick switching between recording setups.
Click to jump to the Connectivity comparison
Features
The Shure MV7 is better for direct monitoring and quick adjustments, while the Rode NT1 is better for sound quality and those who don't mind adjusting volume through their recording software or interface.
Click to jump to the Features comparison
Compatibility
The Rode NT1 is better for studio recordings while the Shure MV7 is better for on-the-go recordings, depending on the user's specific needs and preferences.
Click to jump to the Compatibility comparison
Durability
The Shure MV7 microphone is more durable than the Rode NT1, making it suitable for those who need a microphone that can withstand wear and tear, while the Rode NT1 is better suited for those who prioritize sound quality and noise reduction.
Click to jump to the Durability comparison

Sound Quality

The Rode NT1 is better suited for capturing a wider range of frequencies, including low-frequency sounds like bass and high-frequency sounds like cymbals and vocals. It is ideal for recording studio-quality vocals at home, with a focus on the midrange frequency response that brings clarity to the vocals and a vintage character that combines presence with tonal smoothness.

It is also great for capturing a wide range of instruments and vocals with a warm, natural sound. The Rode NT1 is an excellent option for those who want a more neutral and natural sound.

The Shure MV7 is specifically designed for voice and speech recording, making it a great option for podcasting, live streams, vocals for songs, and voice-over for video content. It offers a clear and crisp audio quality and is capable of capturing a full frequency range with clarity, making your voice shine.

It is also great at minimizing background noise and picking up spoken word with great articulation. The Shure MV7 is an excellent option for those who want a more dynamic and detailed sound with great vocal clarity.

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Directionality

The Rode NT1 and Shure MV7 both have a cardioid polar pattern, making them ideal for recording sound sources directly in front of them. However, the Shure MV7 is better for recording in noisy environments or for podcasting where there may be multiple people speaking, thanks to its noise-cancelling feature.

The Rode NT1 is better suited for recording in a controlled environment where background noise is not an issue, as it is known for its clarity and accuracy. The Rode NT1 can pick up sound from different angles, making it a better choice for those who need a microphone that can do so. The Shure MV7 is highly effective at rejecting off-axis sounds and background noise, making it a better option for recording in noisy environments.

The Rode NT1 is better for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sounds that require a high level of detail and clarity, while the Shure MV7 is ideal for podcasters, streamers, and content creators who want a versatile microphone that can capture their voice with high-quality sound, even in noisy environments.

Overall, the choice between the two microphones will depend on the specific needs of the user and the type of recording they are doing.

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Connectivity

The Shure MV7 microphone is better for connectivity options as it offers dual connectivity options with USB and XLR, and includes a headphone jack for real-time monitoring. It can use both connection methods simultaneously, making it a more flexible option for beginners and professionals alike.

The Shure MV7 is a great choice for podcasters, YouTubers, and streamers as it has a narrow pick-up pattern that minimizes background noise.

The Rode NT1 microphone also offers dual connectivity options with USB and XLR, but it is better for those who need effects like filtering, compression, and Aural Exciter. It is a good option for those who need to switch between different recording setups quickly and easily. However, if you're solely using the microphone for digital sound recording, a dedicated USB microphone may be a better option.

Overall, both microphones are user-friendly and offer convenient connectivity options for different recording setups. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs of the user, but the Shure MV7 is a more versatile option with a headphone jack and the ability to use both USB and XLR connections simultaneously.

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Features

According to expert reviews, the Shure MV7 is better for those who prefer direct monitoring through the built-in headphone jack, as well as for those who prioritize having a dedicated mute button and user-friendly touch controls for volume and gain level. This makes it a good choice for live streaming or recording sessions where quick adjustments to audio levels are necessary.

On the other hand, the Rode NT1 is better for those who prioritize sound quality, as it is a condenser microphone, and for those who don't mind adjusting volume through their recording software or interface. It may also be a better choice for those who already have a mixer or audio interface with a mute function.

Ultimately, the choice between these two microphones will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

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Compatibility

The Rode NT1 microphone is better for studio recordings as it is compatible with professional audio interfaces and mixers with XLR inputs. It is designed for high-quality audio recording and is often used by professional musicians and podcasters. It does not have any known compatibility issues with operating systems or software.

The Shure MV7 microphone is better for on-the-go recordings as it can be used with both iOS and Android devices, making it a great option for content creators who want to record without carrying around a laptop or other recording equipment. It also comes with both a standard USB cable and a USB-C lead, making it more versatile in terms of connectivity options.

However, it may not be compatible with Linux.

Overall, both microphones offer good compatibility options, but the Rode NT1 is better for studio recordings while the Shure MV7 is better for mobile recordings. It ultimately depends on the user's specific needs and preferences.

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Durability

According to expert reviews, the Shure MV7 microphone is more durable than the Rode NT1 due to its all-metal design, shock mount, and heavier weight. It is recommended for those who need a microphone that can withstand wear and tear or may be prone to accidents. On the other hand, the Rode NT1 is better suited for those who prioritize sound quality and noise reduction over physical durability.

It is recommended for studio use or for those who handle their microphone with care. Neither microphone is waterproof and should not be exposed to water or moisture.

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Experts recommend Shure MV7 more than Rode NT1

As of 4 Jul 2024, experts prefer Shure MV7 over Rode NT1, but both Microphones have solid expert endorsements.

As per this month's meta ranking, Shure MV7 received 4 recommendations: from IGN (21 Mar 2024), MusicTech (6 Apr 2022) Music Radar (26 Jun 2024) and 1 other. By contrast, Rode NT1 received only 2 recommendations from Music Radar (26 Jun 2024) and PCMag (12 Jun 2024).

Rank Change Price Microphone
Wirecutter
Tom's Guide
IGN
MusicTech
Music Radar
PianoDreamers
PC Gamer
SoundGuys
CNN Underscored
PCMag
2
- $244
Shure MV7
The Shure MV7 microphone is a versatile and adaptable option for podcasters, streamers, and content creators, offering excellent sound quality, noise-cancelling capabilities, and connectivity options.
-
-
5
4
8
-
1
-
-
-
15
- $209
Rode NT1
The Rode NT1 is a high-quality studio condenser microphone with a wide frequency response range, low self-noise, cardioid polar pattern, dual connectivity options, and durable construction, making it a versatile and reliable choice for recording vocals and acoustic guitars.
-
-
-
-
6
-
-
-
-
7

Curious to see this month's entire Microphones ranking? It's here

About our ranking methodology

Endorsement summary:

  • On 26 Jun 2024 Music Radar ranked Rode NT1 as #6 and Shure MV7 as #8
    Rank Microphone Comment
    ... ... ...
    #6 out of 22 Rode NT1
    The best affordable condenser mic for vocals
    ... ... ...
    #8 out of 22 Shure MV7
    The best microphone for content creation
    ... ... ...
  • On 12 Jun 2024 PCMag ranked Rode NT1 as #7
    Rank Microphone Comment
    ... ... ...
    #7 out of 9 Rode NT1
    Best for USB and XLR Inputs
    ... ... ...
  • On 21 Mar 2024 IGN ranked Shure MV7 as #5
    Rank Microphone Comment
    ... ... ...
    #5 out of 10 Shure MV7
    Best Hybrid XLR/USB Microphone for Streaming
    ... ... ...
  • On 6 Apr 2022 MusicTech ranked Shure MV7 as #4
    Rank Microphone
    ... ...
    #4 out of 15 Shure MV7
    ... ...
  • On 30 May 2024 PC Gamer ranked Shure MV7 as #1
    Rank Microphone Comment
    #1 out of 6 Shure MV7
    The best microphone
    ... ... ...

After counting and adding up the 93 expert endorsements of the July rankings, Shure MV7 outranks Rode NT1. This is not to say that Rode NT1 is a bad option. Like Shure MV7, it is recommended by experts, but less.

MetaRanking Common points from expert reviews summarized.
As can be seen below, Shure MV7 outranks Rode NT1 by 13 positions. This indicates that, as of 4 Jul 2024, Shure MV7 is more critically acclaimed than Rode NT1.
Rank Change Price Microphone
Wirecutter
Tom's Guide
IGN
MusicTech
Music Radar
PianoDreamers
PC Gamer
SoundGuys
CNN Underscored
PCMag
1
- $100
Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and durable device with four directional patterns, a built-in headphone jack, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and software, making it a popular choice among content creators, podcasters, and gamers.
-
1
-
11
-
-
-
-
1
-
2
- $244
Shure MV7
The Shure MV7 microphone is a versatile and adaptable option for podcasters, streamers, and content creators, offering excellent sound quality, noise-cancelling capabilities, and connectivity options.
-
-
5
4
8
-
1
-
-
-
3
- $97
Shure SM57
The Shure SM57 microphone is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality, durability, versatility, and compatibility, making it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and recording engineers for capturing instruments and vocals in various live and studio settings.
-
-
-
-
1
1
-
-
-
-
4
- $150
Elgato Wave 3
The Elgato Wave 3 is a versatile and reliable USB microphone designed for content creators, podcasters, and live streamers, featuring a cardioid polar pattern, two connectivity options, advanced features, and compatibility with both PC and Mac.
-
-
8
-
-
-
-
1
3
-
Show all rows
Expert Reviews There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

Expert reviews [16]

84
Total expert reviews: 16
  • with a score: 5
  • without a score: 11
Highest score by microphonegeeks.com
100
Average score based on 16 reviews
84
Lowest score by Tom's Hardware
70

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

Expert reviews [28]

85
Total expert reviews: 28
  • with a score: 10
  • without a score: 18
Highest score by Music Radar
100
Average score based on 28 reviews
85
Lowest score by techadvisor
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
From Seller:
  • Features a sound signature reminiscent of the famous microphones of old while at the same time exhibiting extremely low noise; Ultra-low noise, self-noise of only 4.5dB (A)
  • The transducer is suspended inside the microphone using Rycote’s Lyre system, minimizing external vibrations at the capsule level
  • Read more
From Seller:
  • USB OR XLR CONNECTIONS: Dual USB/XLR output allows digital or analog recording.
  • CLOSE MIC APPLICATIONS: Great for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more.
  • INTUITIVE TOUCH PANEL CONTROLS: Intuitive touch panel for control over gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting.
  • Read more
Video Reviews Most popular unboxing/review videos.
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RODE NT1 review (with comparison to the NT1-a)
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A USB Mic Made For Podcasts and Streams — The Shure MV7
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Shure MV7 USB/XLR Mic Review / Test (Compared to SM7b, Podmic, Q2u, SM58)
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Very popular! 199K views!
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Shure MV7 Review | The BEST New Mic For Content Creators?!
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