So you’re wondering what mic Gary Vee uses in his podcasts? Honestly, I get asked this a lot. If you’re into podcasting, content creation, or even just curious about what the pros use, especially someone like Gary Vee who’s everywhere then yeah, it’s a smart question.
The mic you choose says a lot about how seriously you take your sound. And let me tell you, sound quality matters more than most people think.
Let’s Get Right to It: Gary Uses the Shure SM7B
Yep, Gary Vaynerchuk – entrepreneur, speaker, content beast uses the Shure SM7B microphone for his podcasts and interviews.
It’s pretty much a go-to mic for the big leagues. I’ve seen it in setups from podcasters to musicians to streamers. It’s got that iconic black body, kind of low-key but super professional. When you see it, you know the person behind it isn’t messing around.
The SM7B isn’t exactly cheap. Last I checked, it’s around $400 just for the mic. That doesn’t even include the audio interface or boom arm. But honestly? It’s worth every penny if you’re serious about clear, warm, and full-sounding audio.
Why the Shure SM7B? Is It That Good?
Best Microphone for singing: Shure SM7B Cardioid Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Short answer: yes.
Longer answer: in my experience, and from what I’ve heard across countless recordings, the SM7B is just reliable.
It has this smooth, natural tone that’s forgiving with room noise and really shines with vocal clarity. You don’t get those annoying sibilant “S” sounds or weird room echoes if your setup is halfway decent.
Gary’s always recording in different environments – boardrooms, studios, events so he needs something versatile. That’s exactly where the SM7B thrives. It’s a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern, which basically means it picks up sound mostly from the front and rejects a lot of background noise.
I think what really makes it ideal for someone like Gary is that he can focus on talking, not fiddling with audio levels or worrying about quality. His team probably handles the mixing, sure, but even raw SM7B audio sounds crisp.
Okay, But… Do You Need an SM7B?

Here’s the thing if you’re just starting out, you don’t have to go straight for the SM7B. I’ve seen too many people burn their budget thinking they need “what the pros use.” That’s not always true.
In fact, when I started recording podcasts, I used a Samsung Q2U – super affordable, about $70, and it’s USB/XLR so it’s flexible. Not as rich as the Shure, but it got me going. The most important thing at the beginning? Just start creating. Seriously.
That said, if you’re mid-level or looking to upgrade, the SM7B is a solid investment. You’ll also need a cloudlifter or a decent audio interface with a clean gain boost because the SM7B needs a lot of gain to sound right. I made the mistake of plugging mine into a basic Scarlett 2i2 at first and… yeah, it sounded flat and weak. Live and learn.
What I’d Do Differently Next Time
So, looking back, I think I rushed into buying the SM7B without fully understanding my needs. I mean, don’t get me wrong, it’s a beast of a mic, but I didn’t realize how much supporting gear I’d need to get the most out of it.
If I were starting over, I’d:
- Focus more on my room acoustics – even the best mic won’t help in a noisy, echoey room.
- Try a few mics before committing – renting or borrowing is underrated.
- Spend more on the interface first, then upgrade the mic.
But yeah, once I did dial everything in? The SM7B just clicked. And I totally get why someone like Gary Vee uses it. His voice cuts through all the noise, literally and metaphorically.
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap it up:
- Gary Vee uses the Shure SM7B for his podcasts.
- It’s about $400, and it needs extra gear (like a cloudlifter or good interface).
- It sounds amazing when used right – great for vocals, podcasting, even music.
- But… you don’t need it right away if you’re just starting out.
In the end, it’s not just about copying someone else’s gear. It’s about understanding why they use it, and figuring out what works best for you. That’s what’ll make your content stand out.
What microphone does Gary Vee use for his podcasts?
Gary Vee uses the Shure SM7B, a professional-grade dynamic microphone known for its high-quality sound and durability.
Why does Gary Vee use the Shure SM7B?
He uses it for its clear vocal reproduction, noise rejection, and versatility in different environments-perfect for his fast-paced, mobile content style.
How much does the Shure SM7B cost?
The Shure SM7B typically costs around $400 USD, depending on the retailer and location.
Is the Shure SM7B good for beginners?
While it offers amazing quality, it requires extra gear (like a cloudlifter and audio interface), so it might not be ideal for absolute beginners on a tight budget.
What audio interface does Gary Vee use with the SM7B?
Gary Vee’s exact interface setup isn't always shown, but most professionals pair the SM7B with interfaces like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or Rodecaster Pro, often with a Cloudlifter CL-1.
Do I need a cloudlifter with the Shure SM7B?
Yes, in most cases. The SM7B needs a lot of clean gain, and a cloudlifter or high-gain preamp helps you get the best sound.
Can I use the Shure SM7B for YouTube videos and livestreaming?
Absolutely. Many top YouTubers and streamers use the SM7B for its rich, broadcast-quality sound.
Are there cheaper alternatives to the Shure SM7B?
Yes, great alternatives include the Samsung Q2U, Rode PodMic, and Audio-Technica ATR2100x, which are more budget-friendly and easier to set up.
Does better audio quality really make a difference in podcasts?
Definitely. Good audio builds trust, keeps listeners engaged, and makes your content feel more professional-even if you're just starting out.
Should I buy the same mic Gary Vee uses?
It depends on your needs and budget. The Shure SM7B is excellent, but make sure you're ready for the full setup. Start with what you can manage and upgrade as you grow.