Best Studio Microphone For Streaming Compared

Choosing the right studio microphone for streaming involves balancing sound quality, affordability, features, and compatibility. The Audio-Technica AT2035 and the Shure SM7B are two popular options, often compared by streamers and content creators. The main difference lies in their target audience: the AT2035 is designed as an accessible, feature-rich microphone suitable for beginners and intermediate users, whereas the SM7B is a professional-grade model favored by seasoned broadcasters and high-level streamers. This comparison helps clarify which microphone aligns best with your needs, budget, and setup, whether you prioritize ease of use or top-tier audio fidelity.

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At a Glance

Criteria	Audio-Technica AT2035	Shure SM7B	Winner
Sound Quality	Clear, warm sound with good sensitivity; ideal for versatile streaming environments	Rich, professional sound with excellent voice presence; preferred for high-fidelity streaming	B
Build Quality	Solid build with metal construction; durable for long-term use	Robust construction, heavy but well-built	A
Features	Includes cardioid pickup pattern, switchable pad and roll-off filters	Simple cardioid pattern, minimal onboard controls, requires additional accessories	A
Ease of Use	Relatively straightforward setup, good for beginners	May require more setup knowledge, suitable for experienced users	A
Price	More affordable, typically around $200	Higher price, usually around $400-$500	A
Compatibility	Compatible with most audio interfaces, requires phantom power	Widely compatible but often paired with additional gear like cloud lifters	A
Size & Design	Compact and sleek design, suitable for desk setups	Larger, more noticeable presence on desk	B
Noise Handling	Good noise rejection, handles background sounds reasonably well	Exceptional noise rejection due to internal shock mount and design	B

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Key Differences

The core distinction between the AT2035 and SM7B is their intended user base and resulting sound quality. The AT2035 combines versatility and affordability, making it a strong choice for streamers who want decent professional sound without extensive equipment or expertise. Its features like switchable filters and a wide frequency response help improve sound quality in various environments, and it works well with typical audio interfaces. In contrast, the SM7B is engineered for professional-grade broadcast and studio applications, offering superior voice presence, noise rejection, and durability. Its sound quality is more refined, but it demands a more complex setup — often requiring additional gear like a cloud lifter or preamp — and comes at a significantly higher price point. For serious content creators aiming for broadcast-quality audio, the SM7B justifies its higher cost. For those starting out or with a tighter budget, the AT2035 provides excellent value, balancing performance with accessibility.

Detailed Comparison

Sound Quality (Shure SM7B wins — major)

The SM7B delivers a richer, more detailed voice with a flatter frequency response optimized for speech and vocals, making it ideal for professional streaming. The AT2035, while not quite at the same level, offers warm, clear sound with good sensitivity and broad frequency response, suitable for most streaming needs. The gap is major, with the SM7B providing noticeably higher fidelity and clarity, especially for high-quality microphone chains.

Build Quality (Shure SM7B wins — moderate)

Both microphones are built with durable metal construction. The SM7B is heavier and feels more substantial, designed for frequent use and professional environments. The AT2035 is lighter, but still robust enough for home use and moderate handling. The difference is moderate in practical terms, leaning towards the SM7B’s more rugged design.

Features (Audio-Technica AT2035 wins — moderate)

The AT2035 includes useful onboard features like a switchable -20dB pad and high-pass filter, offering some flexibility for different recording environments. The SM7B lacks onboard controls but benefits from internal shock mounting and internal air suspension, which enhances noise rejection. The feature set favors the AT2035 slightly for versatility, but the SM7B’s design enhances sound isolation.

Ease of Use (Audio-Technica AT2035 wins — major)

The AT2035 is straightforward to set up, compatible with most audio interfaces, and doesn’t require additional accessories. The SM7B, however, often benefits from a cloud lifter or preamp to achieve optimal levels and sound. Its larger size and weight also demand more stable mounting. For beginners, the AT2035’s simplicity is a clear advantage, making it easier to get good results without extra gear.

Price (Audio-Technica AT2035 wins — major)

The AT2035 is priced around $200, making it accessible for most streamers and hobbyists. The SM7B is generally in the $400-$500 range, reflecting its professional-grade quality and build. The significant price difference means the AT2035 offers a better value for those with limited budgets or starting out, while the SM7B is an investment for serious creators.

Compatibility (Audio-Technica AT2035 wins — minor)

Both microphones are primarily XLR, requiring an audio interface with phantom power for the AT2035 and often a preamp or cloud lifter for the SM7B. While compatibility is straightforward, the SM7B’s higher power demands can complicate setup for beginners. The AT2035’s lower requirements make it easier to integrate into typical streaming setups.

Size & Design (Audio-Technica AT2035 wins — minor)

The SM7B is larger and more visibly substantial, which might be less suitable for cramped desk spaces or minimalist setups. The AT2035’s more compact design makes it easier to position and less obtrusive, especially for streamers with limited space.

Noise Handling (Shure SM7B wins — moderate)

The SM7B’s internal shock mount and design provide excellent noise rejection, making it suitable for noisy environments. The AT2035 also handles background noise reasonably well but may pick up more ambient sounds if not properly placed. The difference is moderate but notable for users in less controlled environments.

Audio-Technica AT2035: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price for good quality sound
• Easy to set up and use with most interfaces
• Includes useful onboard filters and pad
• Compact and unobtrusive design

Cons:

• Lower overall sound fidelity compared to professional mics
• Less robust build for heavy use
• Requires good acoustic treatment for best results

Shure SM7B: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Superior sound quality and voice detail
• Excellent noise rejection and durability
• Designed for professional broadcasting and streaming

Cons:

• Higher cost and additional gear needed for optimal use
• Larger, heavier design may be less practical in small spaces
• Setup complexity can be intimidating for beginners

Who Should Choose What

Choose Audio-Technica AT2035 if:

• You are starting out, on a budget, or want a straightforward, versatile microphone
• You prefer an easier, less complex setup
• You need a reliable microphone for general streaming without needing ultimate fidelity

Choose Shure SM7B if:

• You aim for broadcast-quality sound and are willing to invest in additional gear
• You have experience with audio equipment and want top-tier voice clarity
• You prioritize sound isolation and noise rejection in a professional environment

Value for Money

Paying more for the SM7B is justified for users who demand professional broadcast quality, especially if they already have or plan to invest in a high-quality audio chain. For most casual streamers, content creators, or those starting out, the AT2035 offers substantial value with good sound at a significantly lower price. The decision depends on whether high fidelity and noise rejection are worth the extra investment for your setup and goals.

Final Verdict

The AT2035 is the better choice for most streamers, especially those new to streaming or with budget constraints, thanks to its affordability, ease of setup, and decent sound quality. The SM7B suits serious broadcasters and professionals who prioritize top-tier audio and are ready to support its setup needs. If you are building a high-end streaming studio or seeking studio-grade sound, the SM7B justifies its higher cost. For everyday streaming, the AT2035 provides excellent value and performance, making it the preferred pick for the majority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the SM7B worth the extra cost over the AT2035?

For those seeking broadcast-level voice clarity, noise rejection, and durability, the SM7B justifies its higher price. However, for casual or beginner streamers, the AT2035 offers very good sound at a fraction of the cost.

Do I need additional gear with the SM7B?

Yes, most users pair it with a cloud lifter or preamp to achieve proper gain and optimal sound quality, adding to the overall investment.

Can the AT2035 be used without an audio interface?

Typically not; it requires phantom power, which comes from most audio interfaces. USB microphones might be more suitable for direct plug-and-play use.

Which microphone is better for small desk setups?

The AT2035’s smaller size makes it less obtrusive, ideal for limited space. The SM7B’s larger profile might be less practical in tight environments.

Which microphone is more durable?

The SM7B’s heavier, all-metal build and professional design make it more suitable for frequent handling and long-term use in demanding environments.

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