Shure MV7 Podcast Microphone
User Guide Version: 2.2 (2021-K)
General Description
The Shure MV7 is a professional-quality USB dynamic microphone, ideal for close mic applications requiring vocal intelligibility with a balanced tone. Its attractive and durable all-metal design features an adjustable yoke for mounting on various microphone stands, offering flexible placement options. A touch panel interface provides control over microphone gain, headphone level, monitor mix blend, and muting.
Features
Convenient Plug-and-Play Operation
Compatible with Windows and Mac computers, as well as iOS and Android devices with applicable cables (cables not provided). For recommended Android devices, see Shure MOTIV Compatibility.
Voice Isolation Technology
Features a highly directional cardioid pattern that isolates your voice and minimizes unwanted background noise.
Durable, Versatile Design
- Hybrid USB/cardioid microphone supports digital or analog recording.
- Intuitive touch panel interface for adjusting settings.
- Rugged, all-metal construction with excellent cartridge protection for reliability.
Flexible Sound Control with the ShurePlus MOTIV™ Desktop Application
The MOTIV Desktop Application offers control over microphone settings, including:
- Auto Level Mode: Automatically adjusts microphone settings for optimal gain and compression.
- Custom user presets: Save personalized settings.
- Switchable EQ filters: High-pass filter and voice boost (presence boost) options available in Manual mode.
Connect Your MV7
- Plug the included Micro-B USB cable into your MV7.
- Connect the other end of the Micro-B USB cable to your computer.
- Plug your headphones into the monitor output.
Quick Setup
- Connect the microphone to your computer using the correct cable. The MV7's LEDs will pulse upon connection.
- Download the Shure MOTIV Desktop App from shure.com/MOTIVdesktop. Your computer may prompt for permission to use the external device.
- Select your microphone from the drop-down menu within the app to access customized controls.
- Check audio levels and adjust settings. You can manually adjust gain or select Auto Level Mode for an effortless setup. Refer to "Advanced Mic Settings" for more details.
Touch Panel Interface
The touch panel features:
- LED Bar: Displays microphone and headphone levels. LED color indicates the current level being displayed or adjusted (Green for Microphone, Orange for Headphone, Green/Orange for Monitor Mix blend).
- Mute Button: Press to mute or unmute the microphone.
- Volume Control Slider: Swipe up or down on the control surface to adjust microphone or headphone levels.
- Monitor Toggle: Press to switch between microphone (green) and headphone (orange) volume controls. Long press to activate monitor mix controls (both green and orange), and another long press to return to separate controls.
- Lock Indicator: Shows if settings lock is active. Locking prevents accidental changes to microphone settings. When locked, the settings screen in the desktop application appears grayed out.
Controls
Adjust Monitor Mix
Press and hold the Monitor Toggle for 2 seconds to access monitor mix controls. Swipe left to increase mic audio (green) or swipe right to increase playback audio (orange). Press and hold Monitor Toggle again to return to separate microphone and headphone volume controls.
Settings Lock
Press and hold both the Mute and Monitor Toggle buttons for 2 seconds to lock or unlock settings.
Exit Auto Level Mode
Press and hold the Mute button for 2 seconds. Note: Auto Level Mode can only be enabled via the MOTIV Desktop Application.
LED Behavior
Live Meters: The Touch Panel LEDs function as a visual volume meter. In Manual mode, if levels reach the input meter peak, switch to Auto Level or lower mic gain. Night Mode: Lowers the brightness of the Touch Panel LEDs for discreet recording in low-light situations. Access Live meters and Night mode via Settings > LED Behavior in the MOTIV app settings tab.
The MV7 Microphone
The MV7 features a dynamic capsule with a cardioid polar pattern, utilizing Voice Isolation Technology to capture sound directly from the front of the microphone.
MV7 Outputs
The microphone offers the following outputs:
- Passive XLR Output: Connect to XLR mixers and interfaces. XLR audio is not affected by software settings.
- 3.5mm Monitor Output: Connect headphones and earphones.
- Micro-B USB: Connect to your computer using the included USB-A and USB-C cable.
Mounting Instructions
The MV7 includes a 5/8"-27 threaded mount, standard for most microphone stands. It can be used with a microphone stand or hung from a boom. Some stands may require an adapter (not provided). Be careful not to completely loosen the screws when adjusting orientation. To flip the microphone orientation, loosen the screws and rotate 180 degrees.
Windscreen
The included windscreen provides maximum protection from plosives and creates a warmer, more intimate sound for speech applications like podcasting and gaming.
Auto Level Mode
Use these suggestions as a starting point. The closer you are to the microphone, the better the sound. Auto Level Mode helps achieve optimal results. Experiment with mic placement to find what works best for your voice.
Near Placement
For podcast and voice recording: Position the MV7 in front of you, as close as possible. Speak directly into the mic, 1-6 inches (2.54-15 cm) away, for an intimate voice sound with maximum rejection of off-axis sounds. Closer placement results in more bass response, similar to radio broadcasts. Adjust gain as needed.
Far Placement
Ideal when the sound source is further away, such as in gaming when the user needs to be closer to the screen. Aim the microphone directly at the sound source, placing it 6-18 inches (15-45 cm) away. Adjust gain as needed. Tip: Due to its directional nature, ensure the MV7 points directly at the sound source. Experiment with placement for the best sound.
Additional Tips
Shure offers educational articles and publications on recording techniques. Visit Shure Educational Articles for more information.
The Shure MOTIV Desktop App
Use the Shure MOTIV desktop app to quickly adjust microphone settings. The device stores the most recently used settings for quick setup.
Mic Setup: Auto Level
The app interface allows for:
- Settings: Access MOTIV software information, manage presets, application preferences, and check for firmware updates via a three-dot menu.
- Mic Selection/Settings Lock: Tap the caret to access microphone settings. Tap the lock icon to lock/unlock settings.
- Auto Level Mode / Manual Mode: Select AUTO LEVEL for automatic settings or MANUAL for full control.
- Custom Presets: Create and save custom presets.
- Mic Mute: Toggle to mute or unmute the microphone.
- Monitor Mix slider: Adjust the balance between mic and playback audio. See "Monitor Mix Blend" for details.
- Mic Position: Select "Near" or "Far" for optimal mic placement.
- Tone: Adjust audio tonal qualities by selecting Dark, Natural, or Bright.
- LED Behavior: Enable Live meters for mic gain metering or Night mode to dim the LEDs.
Mic Setup: Manual
The manual setup interface allows for:
- Auto Level Mode / Manual Mode: Select MANUAL for full control over microphone settings.
- Custom Presets: Create and save custom presets.
- Mic Mute / Mic Gain: Use the toggle to mute/unmute and the slider to control microphone gain. Note: It is recommended to lock mic settings once they are optimized.
- Monitor Mix slider: Adjust the balance between mic and playback audio.
- EQ: Use the equalizer to add a high-pass filter, presence boost, or both. Tap "Flat" to return to the default state.
- Limiter and Compressor settings: Fine-tune audio with limiter and compressor controls. Refer to "Advanced Mic Settings" for more information.
- LED Behavior: Enable Live meters or Night mode.
Note: Manual settings may reset if you switch to Auto Level mode and then back to Manual mode.
Monitor Mix Blend
Use the monitor mix slider to adjust the balance between mic and playback audio. For best results, start at the midpoint and adjust. Move the slider towards the microphone icon (Mic) to hear more of your voice, useful when singing over a backing track. Move the slider towards the device icon (Playback) to hear more of the playback audio, useful when recording harmonies.
EQ Modes
Use the equalizer to boost or cut frequencies for improved sound clarity. Tap "Flat" to return to an unchanged equalization state.
| Mode | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Flat | A completely unprocessed signal (no equalization settings used). |
| High-pass | High-pass filter to reduce proximity effect. |
| Presence boost | Equalization that emphasizes clarity and fullness. |
| High-pass presence boost | Combination high-pass filter and presence boost to improve definition and focus on clarity. |
Advanced Mic Settings
Fine-tune your sound with limiter, compression, and equalizer settings.
Limiter
Toggle the limiter on or off to prevent distortion from volume peaks during recording.
Compressor
Choose no compression, or select light, medium, or heavy compression to control volume dynamics. Quiet signals are boosted, and loud signals are lowered, resulting in a denser, louder sound.
MV7 Tips
Control your Levels
To ensure consistent volume levels, keep the microphone as close to your face as possible.
Use Lock Mode to Lock In Your Sound
Once you have found optimal audio settings, press and hold both Mute and Monitor Toggle for 2 seconds to lock settings and prevent accidental adjustments, ensuring consistent audio.
Monitor Your Sound
Plug headphones into the headphone output on your MOTIV device to hear your audio.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Microphone is plugged in, but not detected. | Unplug and reconnect the cable. The desktop application should display the correct microphone settings once the connection is made. |
| You hear no audio even though the desktop application is displaying the correct microphone. | Check the Monitor Mix blend. Move the slider to the center to hear both mic and playback audio simultaneously. |
| Audio is distorted (Auto Level Mode) | Select Auto Level Mode. Use "Near" placement for up-close applications (1-6 inches / 2.54-15 cm) and "Far" placement for distances of 6-18 inches (15-45 cm). |
| Audio is distorted (Manual Mode) | Audio distortion often results from overloading the microphone, causing clipping. Lower your mic gain. |
| Headphone LED flashes. Audio sounds higher or lower pitch than normal. | There may be a sample rate mismatch between your microphone and computer. Adjust your computer's sample rate settings. Refer to the Shure FAQ for information on correcting sample rate mismatches. |
| Microphone has become detached from the yoke. | Consult the "MV7 Yoke Assembly" section for step-by-step instructions on re-assembling the yoke and washers. Correct washer assembly is crucial for secure mounting. Note: Windows update 10 v2004 (April 2020) may resolve this issue. |
| Miscellaneous issues | Resetting the app may restore functionality. Perform a hard reset by unplugging and re-plugging the microphone. |
| General troubleshooting | Quit and restart the app. Reboot the computer. Check for firmware updates by tapping the three dots in the top right corner, selecting About MOTIV, and then "Check for Update." Contact Shure Service and Repair if issues persist. |
Firmware Update
Update your firmware via the MOTIV Desktop Application when prompted to take advantage of new features and design enhancements. You can download the update immediately or later. For best results, ensure the microphone is connected to your computer during the update process and do not disconnect until it is complete. To access firmware updates later, navigate to Settings > About > Check for Update. If a newer firmware package is available, tap "Send to device." Contact Shure Service and Repair for any issues.
Keep equipment connected during updates
Keep the MOTIV device connected to your computer during firmware updates to prevent issues.
System Requirements
System Requirements and Compatibility: Mac
- macOS 10.13 to 10.15
- 64-bit processor
- Minimum 2 GB of RAM
- Minimum 500 MB of hard disk space
System Requirements and Compatibility: Windows
- Windows 10
- 64-bit processor
- Minimum 2 GB of RAM
- Minimum 500 MB of hard disk space
System Requirements and Compatibility: iOS
- iOS 14 and higher
- iPhone 6s and higher
- iPod Touch: 7th generation
Note: iPad Pro (USB-C) is not supported.
System Requirements and Compatibility: Android
Compatible with Android devices supporting USB Audio Class 2.0 and USB-C connectivity. Not all Android devices are compatible. Android is a trademark of Google Inc. See Shure MOTIV Compatibility for information on supported Android devices.
Specifications
- MFi Certified: Yes
- DSP Modes (Presets): Near/Far, Dark/Natural/Bright
- Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional (Cardioid)
- Output Impedance: 314 Ω
- Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 16,000 Hz
- Adjustable Gain Range: 0 to +36 dB
- Sensitivity: -55 dBV/Pa [1] (1.78 mV), -47 dBFS/Pa [1] [2] (@ 1 kHz, open circuit voltage)
- Maximum SPL, Digital Output: 132 dB SPL [2]
- Headphone Output: 3.5 mm (1/8")
- Polarity: Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3.
- Mute Switch Attenuation: Yes
- Limiter: Yes
- Compressor: Yes
- Power Requirements: Powered through USB or Lightning connector.
- Housing: All metal construction.
- Mounting Type: 5/8"-27 thread mount.
- Net Weight: 0.55 kg (1.21 lbs).
[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL
[2] At Minimum Gain, Flat Mode
Bit Depth and Sampling Rate
| Bit Depth | Sampling Rate |
|---|---|
| 24 | 48 kHz |
| 24 | 44.1 kHz |
| 16 | 48 kHz |
| 16 | 44.1 kHz |
Typical Frequency Response
A graph shows frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, peaking around 3-5 kHz.
Typical Polar Pattern
Diagrams illustrate cardioid polar patterns at different frequencies (250 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2500 Hz, 6300 Hz), showing maximum sensitivity at the front (0 degrees) and reduced sensitivity at the sides and rear.
Overall Dimensions
Diagrams show the microphone's dimensions: 153.6 mm (6.05 in) height, 77.2 mm (3.04 in) width, 66.5 mm (2.62 in) depth, with a 25.4 mm (1.00 in) thread length and 130.7 mm (5.15 in) yoke width.
Slider LED dB Value
| Slider LED | Color | dB Value |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | Yellow | -6 dB |
| 7 | Yellow | -12 dB |
| 6 | Yellow | -18 dB |
| 5 | Green | -24 dB |
| 4 | Green | -30 dB |
| 3 | Green | -39 dB |
| 2 | Green | -48 dB |
| 1 | Green | -90 dB |
MV7 Yoke Assembly
The MV7 yoke allows flexible mic placement. Loosen the yoke knobs to adjust the microphone angle. If the microphone detaches, follow these steps for reassembly: Each side requires one thin gray spring washer, one shiny silver brass washer, two black plastic washers, and the yoke with threaded knob.
- Start with the threaded knob, flat side down.
- Stack washers on the knob: black plastic washer, yoke side, second black plastic washer, flat silver washer, and thin spring washer.
- Hold the assembly and slide the MV7 onto the threaded screw, then turn the knob to secure the washers. Keep this side slightly loose for assembly on the opposite side.
- On the opposite yoke arm, place washers in reverse order: Thin spring washer > Flat silver washer > Black plastic washer > Yoke arm.
- Align the yoke arm onto the washer stack. Use a pen through the yoke and washers to ensure proper centering. Leave the pen in place.
- Place the second black plastic washer onto the remaining threaded knob.
- Remove the pen. Insert the threaded knob and black plastic washer into the stacked washers and tighten both sides to ensure stability.
Accessories
Furnished Accessories
- 10 foot Micro-B to USB-A cable (Part No. 95A45110)
- 10 foot Micro-B to USB-C cable (Part No. 95B38076)
Replacement Parts
- Black Windscreen (Part No. AMV7-K-WS)
- Silver Windscreen (Part No. AMV7-S-WS)
Optional Accessories
- 1 m Lightning cable (Part No. AMV-LTG)
Certifications
Information to the user
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
- Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Industry Canada ICES-003 Compliance Label: CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B).
This microphone is for use with any microphone stand with a 5/8" threaded adapter. Note: Testing is based on supplied and recommended cable types. Using other than shielded cable types may degrade EMC performance.
This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking. The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance.
Authorized European representative: Shure Europe GmbH, Global Compliance, Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12, 75031 Eppingen, Germany. Phone: +49-7262-92 49 0, Email: info@shure.de, Website: www.shure.com.
Korean Certifications: Certification No. R-R-SHU-MV7, Product Type: Digital Microphone, Model Name: MV7, Registrant/Manufacturer: Shure Incorporated, COO: China, Mexico.
Apple Device Compatibility: Made for iPad (5th gen+), iPad Air (2nd gen+), iPad mini 4+, iPad Pro (all models), iPhone 6s+, iPhone SE+, iPhone 7+, iPhone 8+, iPhone X+, iPhone XS+, iPhone XR, iPhone 11+, iPhone 12+, iPod Touch (7th gen). iPad, iPhone, iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc. The trademark "iPhone" is used in Japan with a license from Aiphone K.K.
Android Compatibility: Compatible with Android devices supporting USB Audio Class 2.0 and USB-C connectivity. Not all Android devices are compatible. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.
