Upgrading Your Microphone Setup: AT2020 to SM7B or Better XLR Interface?

Deciding whether to upgrade your microphone setup from an AT2020 to a Shure SM7B or to get a better XLR interface can be a daunting decision. Let's explore the differences and considerations to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding the Microphones

The AT2020 and the Shure SM7B are both high-quality microphones, but they serve different purposes and require different setups.

AT2020: A condenser microphone, known for its excellent clarity and detail. Shure SM7B: A dynamic microphone, renowned for its robustness and smooth response.

While the SM7B is indeed an exceptional microphone, it functions very differently from the AT2020. The Shure SM7B requires a preamp that can provide at least 60db of gain, whereas most condensers can work with 40-50db of gain.

Preamp Requirements and Compatibility

If you are considering a switch between these microphones, it's important to note that the transition might not be as straightforward as simply upgrading your microphone. The SM7B is a dynamic mic and needs more gain, which many inexpensive interfaces struggle to provide without introducing noise.

It wouldn't make sense to get a Shure SM7B with an existing 30 interface. The SM7B needs a fair amount of gain which most inexpensive interfaces have a hard time doing without becoming quite noisy.

You could use an inline gain booster such as a Cloud Lifter, but this adds to the cost of the setup.

Evaluating Your Current Setup

If you are already satisfied with your AT2020 and leveraging a decent interface like the Focusrite Clarett 4Pre or a Saffire Pro 14, then there might be no immediate need for an upgrade. However, it is worth considering if you are working on high-profile projects, such as those from Billie Eilish, where the quality of the recording can make a significant difference.

Other Considerations

Audio Technica microphones are known for their quality, but the Shure SM58 is particularly revered for its toughness and transparency of sound. If you're looking for versatility, adding a high-quality microphone to your arsenal is always beneficial.

For serious users, owning at least one good microphone is essential. The Shure SM7B is certainly a step up from the AT2020 in terms of audio quality. However, it's crucial to be doing other things well in your recording setup before making improvements in your microphone choice. The improvements from the Shure might be more significant than simply getting a better preamp.

Concluding Thoughts

Your decision should be guided by your specific needs and the quality of your existing setup. An SM7B offers unparalleled sound quality but requires a compatible preamp. With an AT2020 and your current interface, you are already on solid ground. If you are looking to take your recordings to the next level, investing in a high-quality microphone like the Shure SM7B or upgrading your preamp might be the right move.