Podcasters’ Guide: Choosing the Right SM7B Cover for Clear Audio

If you are making professional podcasts, every detail in your setup can either make or break the quality of your sound. Podcasters everywhere realize that sound quality also revolves around clarity, from your microphone to your soundproofing. One of the most iconic dynamic microphones used in the industry is the Shure SM7B. There is also an underrated accessory used to achieve a studio-quality recording, which is a mic cover. The right Shure SM7B cover can improve your audio tones greatly while also helping you avoid distractions from whatever potential source in your episodes.

If you are new to podcasting or have already established yourself, this guide will help you understand what SM7B cover you need and why it matters and how it improves your sound overall.

Why Podcasters Rely on the SM7B

The Shure SM7B is famous for its ability to reproduce warm and natural tones of the human voice. Sure, SM7B microphones have been utilized by professionals for decades—musicians, radio DJs, and podcasters all value this product because of its balanced response across the spectrum, smooth bass roll-off, wide frequency range, and isolation in the podcasting space that makes it top of the line for these types of environments. 

Still, even the best microphones, like the Shure SM7B, need to be optimized for the best possible performance. Clarity is most important when recording spoken words. Being mindful of plosives (p- and b-burst) and breath noise is essential. This is where the Shure SM7B comes in.

The Role of Mic Covers in Podcasting

A mic cover, often referred to as a windscreen or foam cover, is an accessory that serves to help reduce undesirable sound interruptions in your recordings from outside noise or other harsh sounds. For podcasters it will serve to:

1. Reduce plosive sounds caused by strong consonants

2. Reduce breath blasts and mouth noises.

3. Create a cleaner vocal presence without some of the large vocal peaks.

4. Protect the microphone from moisture and dust.

In summary, if you’re hoping to achieve polished recordings without distractions, the best mic cover for podcasters is a step you shouldn’t ignore.

Choosing SM7B Accessories: What Matters Most

When selecting accessories for the SM7B, podcasters most often emphasize a boom arm, shock mount, and isolation shield or shield sport. However, covers should find their way onto that list of priorities, too, and here is what you should consider when you decide to purchase covers for your SM7B:

• Material Quality—Foam covers can either have a basic foam density or be of a high-level design. Generally, the denser the foam, the more effective it is for noise protection without sounding muffled.

• Fit and Size—The SM7B has its own specific shape to it, so make sure to get a cover “designed” to fit securely around it. Looser-fitting covers can alter sound patterns.

• Recording Environment—If you record indoors in a controlled, enclosed location, then a standard foam cover will work. If you record outside or use a location that doesn't have a lot of acoustical treatment, then a thicker windscreen will be better at protecting against outdoor conditions.

• Voice Style—Some podcasters have an emphatic “p” and “t” articulation, which definitely calls for a more robust “plosive” guard. Softer speakers only need standard covers.

Best Mic Cover Options for Podcasters Using SM7B

There are a number of windscreens for podcasters, based on budget and performance needs:

• Standard foam windscreen: This windscreen is included with Shure and does a great job of handling most indoor recordings. An excellent choice for beginners or simple setups.

• Thicker windscreen (A7WS): An upgraded version, this thicker foam cuts down plosives better and provides a bit of warmth to voices. This is what many podcasters consider the best mic cover for podcasters who record podcasts often.

• Aftermarket foam covers: There are many third-party companies that manufacture covers in thicker foam or other materials, creating a slightly different tonal variation. 

• Pop filters: Pop filters are sometimes used in addition to covers and are an external filter that mounts on a stand and adds another layer of protection. Using these in combination with a foam cover would allow for the most clarity.

Podcasting with SM7B: Getting Professional Results

If you want to grow your program or podcast into a show your audience wants to come back to week after week, the audio quality across your content needs to stay consistent and of professional quality. The Shure SM7B mic is already a great investment for a podcaster, but add the right cover, and your audience will enjoy soft conversations, laughs, and even fiery passionate monologues while remaining super clear.

Think of it this way—your audience needs to feel connected with your voice rather than distracted by the audio. Therefore, with the right Shure SM7B cover, every conversation will facilitate a more natural flow of conversation, every guest will sound more refined on the microphone, and your episodes will have a more professional, polished broadcast-style quality.

Expert Tips for Podcasters

• Try out various covers to hear small differences in tone. A thinner foam sometimes has a brighter vocal presence, and thicker foam can reduce unwanted sounds.

• Have a spare cover. The foam can wear out, and having a backup ensures that you won't suddenly lose your quality sound.

• Don’t forget cleaning and upkeep. Covers collect a bunch of dust and germs, so frequently replacing, cleaning, or washing them will help you maintain your audio and your microphone(s).

Conclusion

Podcasting success is not only driven by your content and personality but can also be determined by clarity. The Shure SM7B covers are small accessory items, yet they have a big impact on professional output. By applying knowledge about your recording style, location, and audience, you can confidently select the best mic covers for podcasters in order to achieve quality broadcast sound.

Whether you are upgrading your technology or just getting started, the choice of the SM7B accessories, especially the cover, might be the difference between sounding like you are in your bedroom or sounding like a respected podcast that someone would want to listen to.

Using the one-time password and the Shure SM7B covers, you now have the knowledge necessary to put your audio presence on another level. The next time you step to the mic, you will know your voice is going to be received and remembered as clear, professional, and completely yours.