Bandrew Scott

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Shure SM27 Review / Test

Today i review the Shure SM27, a studio workhorse or all-purpose cardioid condenser microphone. Features wise it offers a -15dB pad and 2 high pass filters. The sound has a bit of a bump in the bass, and then a presence and treble boost, with a slight boost in the air which gives it a brighter sound. It also leans slightly on the sibliant side so for sibilant voices it may not be the best choice.

Buy the Shure SM27 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: https://geni.us/ssm27
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/4br7bZR

Buy the Focusrite 2i2 (3rd Gen)- Same Performance as 18i20 (Affiliate Link)
Amazon:  https://geni.us/2i32rd
Sweetwater: https://imp.i114863.net/k6g4d
B&H Photo: https://bhpho.to/42lcWDF
Thomann: https://www.thomann.de/intl/focusrite_scarlett_2i2_3rd_gen.htm?offid=1&affid=2060

NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.

RECORDING SETTINGS:

  • Interface: Focsurite Scarlett 18i20 2nd Gen

  • Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz

  • Gain: ~1:00

  • Boosted in Post: +10dB

SPECS:

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid

  • Freq Response : 20Hz - 20khz

  • Sensitivity: -37dB

  • Self Noise: 9.5BA

  • Max SPL: 152dB (with pad)

  • Impedance: 150 Ohms

00:00 - Intro / Setup
00:17 - What’s in the Box
00:40 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:14 - Specifications
01:25 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
01:42 - Plosive Test
01:59 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:20 - Background Noise Test 
02:35 - Untreated Room Test
02:55 - Shock Rejection Test
03:11 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:24 - High Pass Filter Test
03:56 - Pad Test
04:34 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
04:56 - Neat King Bee v2 Comparison
05:19 - Rode NT1 5th Gen Comparison
05:44 - Lewitt LCT440 Comparison
06:10 - Sennheiser MK4 Comparison
06:39 - Shure KSM32 Comparison
07:08 - Shure KSM44a Comparison
07:39 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
08:11 - Music Test
09:47 - Pros & Cons
10:58 - Overall Thoughts
12:16 - Recommendation