[SoulMate]

I'm currently using an SM57 for gigs, back in the days when there were gigs.
Once this pandemic outbreak is under control by a vaccine, performing will take off again.

When it does, I would like to upgrade my mic to a Shure SM 7 B or an EV RE320.
Is there anybody who has experience with these? What do you prefer and why?

 

[vbluesman]

I have about a half dozen microphones, for live shows I use the SM57, Sennheiser and a EV. (I forgot the number but it's a very good microphone.) I'm a big fan of the SM57 for playing live shows, It's incredibly durable and it takes to equalization very well. The microphones you want to investigate can be used for studio recording and are ideal for low brass and baritone saxophone. I'd find a mail order place with a generous return policy and order both. I've listened to live recordings of myself playing into the SM 57 and I'm satisfied with it's performance.

 

[JCBigler]

You are doing yourself a disservice if you don't at least consider the Heil PR30B. It sits in the same company as the SM7B and RE320. And it less expensive.

 

[Saxhound]

What JC said. Also, the Heil PR40. I use that for tenor & bari and it is great. They have gone up some in price the last couple years. A little more than the EV, but less than the Shure.

 

[Tzadik]

What kind of sound are you looking for?

If you are accustomed with the Shure, despite the SM7b is VERY different from the SM57... you probably won't like the EV.
For the budget, I'll look for a used RE20 or RE27N/D.

The SM7b has no neodymium magnet and requires tons of clean gain... much more than a SM57.
It's common to use an in-line preamp (to raise up the level if 16/20 dB) with the SM7b... like the FetHead or similar stuff from Cloud Microphones.

 

[Benny]

Try a Beyerdynamic M88 too. They need less gain than a SM7B, or the RE mics, of which the RE320 is not as nice as the RE20.
You need to try them to know what’s right for your sound though.

 

[SoulMate]

Thanks for suggesting the Heil PR30B and PR40. I will definitely look in to these!

 

[Mark R]

You are doing yourself a disservice if you don't at least consider the Heil PR30B. It sits in the same company as the SM7B and RE320. And it less expensive.

A few months ago I bought a Heil PR-31BW...same reproduction and same pattern as PR-30 with smaller size packaging...still same size large diaphragm mic capsule. I love it. Also very good when running through effects. I am super please with it, good full natural sound reference for saxophone. I primarily play tenor.