I have both of them, so there is no surprise to recognize them correctly (mainly by noise in the recording, ha, ha). I love SM7B, but prefer Ethos. Good comparison, Jay!
I have been using my SM7b for years for many of the same reasons that you point out Jay. I am a network and local radio producer. I use the SM7b for promos and certain spots. Like most mics, some EQ and processing may be necessary to get the voice track to "pop" in a mix. I also use a Shure KSM32, TLM103 and an MKH416. Each has its own place. I think of each mic as an artist would use a brush for a certain effect and tone. I also consider the acoustic environment in which the mic will be used. Jay, I always like your comparisons to reveal what each mic has to offer as well as your real world experience with them in various applications. You are the best! Thank you.
This is an excellent overview comparison of both mics. Over the years I've used the Electro-Voice RE320, the SE DynaCaster DCM8, the Shure SM58, and an array of other dynamic and condenser mics. primarily for podcasts and meditation audios. In April, I purchased the Earthworks Ethos and I couldn't be happier. To my ears, the sound is noticeably smoother and more pleasing than the SM7B. While there is no "one magic mic", the Earthworks Ethos is now my daily driver for all of the positive reasons you shared during your video. Thanks for sharing your expertise in this and your other videos. Your review of voice over submissions is super valuable for voice over talent and for anyone doing podcasts or other audio recording work.
@LeSaff sure! They’re both quite similar, but the icon sounded a bit brighter to me which wasn’t what I was looking for at the time. Particularly as I had several other mics that filled that niche for me already.
I took Aquarium Pre Filter Foam Rolls, similar material to the Hakan P110 pop filter, and modified them to fit the Earthworks Ethos. This way, I got a more transparent pop filter that still looks good with the Earthworks Ethos and protects against plosives without blocking the mic too much.
Without looking at comments.. Mic B ALL-DAY.. now.. to finish this video.. B sounds much crisp , clean and brighter.. 🤞 B is the Ethos.. because I JUST ordered one brand new open box off eBay for $200!!
In my hearing, the SM7B has an unpleasant resonance comparatively. The Ethos presents a more smooth,natural image and a well rounded low energy that preserves the balance of the entire freq range. I could listen to that all day. Instantly loved Mic A and thought it was the Shure. Ever use a Heil PR40 or PR30? Thanks, Jay.
Another great 'real world use' informative video. Thanks Jay. How do the Ethos and Sennheiser 416 compare for voiceover? Would the 416 be better for short promos and Ethos better for long form? be interested to see you do a comparison if possible. Cheers. All the best, Joe.
Thanks Joe! And good question. I’d you want to hear them both I have another comparison on my channel called “finding the best VO mic” or something similar. I don’t compare them directly but they’re both featured. Re your question, you more or less hit it on the head. Both will work for just about any VO use, long or short, but the ETHOS is much flatter/darker in tone, particularly with the windscreen on, which makes it less fatiguing for longer recordings naturally. Whereas the 416 has a hefty presence boost and more “larger than life” sound, making it naturally well suited to short form. However, as I said, both will get the job done in either case. Audible uses 416s in their productions sometimes, and I use the ETHOS in ads fairly often. 😊
I have both and the ethos is on my desk.sm7b on the other desk..I prefer the ethos.and.sny earthworks.mics when doing voice work..sm7b is also excellent but ethos is bettwr
