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Shure MV51 Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£190
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • Connection type: USB + lightning
  • Transducer type: electret condenser
  • Max SPL: 130 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48 kHz
  • Output connector type: micro-USB

Shure MV51 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

7.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

7.4

Technical Score

25.0%

9.4

User score

Very good
7.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.5

Audio Performance

20.0%

7.5

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.3

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.6

Connectivity

3.0%

7.8

Design

3.0%

3.6

Accessories

Very good
9.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

9.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(970)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(571)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 8.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Mute function

    20.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 8.7
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 9.3
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    8.2

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 7.8
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    10

    Mute function

    15.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

  • 5.9
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.8

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    4.0

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    10

    Height

    10.0%

    5.3

    Width

  • shure-mv51
  • shure-mv51
shure-mv51
shure-mv51

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Shure MV51 is a large-diaphragm digital condenser microphone featuring a 1-inch (25mm) electret capsule and a cardioid polar pattern, designed for professional-quality recording via USB or Lightning connections. It offers studio-grade performance with a 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response, up to 24-bit/48kHz resolution, and a high maximum SPL of 130dB, making it versatile for everything from speech to loud live music. Key characteristics include an iconic all-metal vintage design, an integrated kickstand that converts to a standard 5/8-inch mic mount, and an intuitive front touch panel for controlling gain, muting, and monitoring via the zero-latency 3.5mm headphone jack. Its primary pros are the five built-in DSP preset modes (Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic, and Loud) that automatically adjust EQ and compression, alongside seamless compatibility with PC, Mac, and iOS devices. However, notable cons include its substantial weight of 574g, the lack of an internal pop filter which makes it susceptible to plosives, and a reliance on a dated Micro-USB connection port.

Technical Specifications of Shure MV51

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

8.5

Audio Performance

20.0%

7.5

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.3

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.6

Connectivity

3.0%

7.8

Design

3.0%

3.6

Accessories

7.4
Shure MV51 has a technical score of 7.41 points, which is higher than 71.4% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

9.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(970)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(571)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.4
Shure MV51 has a user score of 9.37 points, which is higher than 81.4% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
9.8
Shure MV51 has a popularity of 9.8 points, which is higher than 68.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.9

Overall score

40.0%

9.5

Price

8.4
Shure MV51 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.4 points, which is higher than 77.4% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

electret condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

25 inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB + lightning
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

micro-USB
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 includes a headphone output. 62.9% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 includes a 3.5 mm jack. 62.8% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
Show more
Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48 kHz
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16, 24 bit
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

48 kHz
Shure MV51 supports an interface sample rate of 48 kHz which is higher than that of 2.4% of microphones and equal to that of 55.3% of microphones.
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

24 bit
Shure MV51 supports an interface bit depth of 24 bit which is higher than that of 41.8% of microphones and equal to that of 57.1% of microphones.
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Show more
N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Shure MV51 is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Shure MV51 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shure MV51 does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Shure MV51 includes a mute function. 67.8% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Shure MV51 includes onboard gain control. 51% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

1
Shure MV51 offers volume output of 1 which is higher than that of 35.4% of microphones and equal to that of 48.7% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 supports a flat DSP mode. 25% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

5
Shure MV51 offers 5 DSP presets, which is more than 96.9% of microphones and equal to 1.6% of microphones.
Show more
Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Shure MV51 requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Shure MV51 supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

128 mm
Shure MV51 is 128 mm tall, which is shorter than 91.8% of microphones and equal in height to 0.5% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

86 mm
Shure MV51 is 86 mm wide, which is wider than 76.5% of microphones and equal in width to 1% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

70 mm
Shure MV51 is 70 mm thick, which is thicker than 63.2% of microphones and equal in thickness to 0.5% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

574.7 g
Shure MV51 weighs 574.7 g, which is heavier than 51.3% of microphones.
With included stand.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
Show more
Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; mount adapter
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not include a shock mount. 50% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not include a pop filter. 61.4% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

1 m
Shure MV51 has a cable length of 1 m which is shorter than that of 92.9% of microphones and equal to that of 7.1% of microphones.
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 is compatible with iOS. 61.3% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Shure MV51 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

no
Shure MV51 is not compatible with Xbox. 2.3% of microphones are compatible with Xbox.
Reported as not compatible with Xbox.
Show more

Shure MV51 vs the average microphone

  • Includes mix control
    Shure MV51 includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
    When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure MV51 includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 5 more DSP presets
    Shure MV51 has more DSP presets than the average microphone (5 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 DSP presets.
    What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
    When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 has more DSP presets than the average microphone (5 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 DSP presets.5 vs 0
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Shure MV51 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
    When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • 8 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure MV51 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (130 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    At minimum gain.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Shure MV51 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (130 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.130 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • Includes LED level indicator
    Shure MV51 includes an LED level indicator, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes an LED indicator for signal or level status.
    When it matters: When you want a quick visual check that signal or mute status is behaving as expected.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 includes an LED level indicator, the average microphone does not.
  • 57 mm shorter body
    Shure MV51 is shorter than the average microphone (128 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
    What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 is shorter than the average microphone (128 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.128 mm vs 185 mm
  • 17.1% higher user score
    Shure MV51 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.37 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.
    When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Shure MV51 has a higher user score than the average microphone (9.37 vs 8.000).9.37 vs 8
  • 8 dB SPL higher limit
    Shure MV51 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (130 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • Includes mix control
    Shure MV51 includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 5 more DSP presets
    Shure MV51 has more DSP presets than the average microphone (5 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 DSP presets.
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Shure MV51 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes LED level indicator
    Shure MV51 includes an LED level indicator, the average microphone does not.
  • 57 mm shorter body
    Shure MV51 is shorter than the average microphone (128 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.

Total
Overall
Audio Performance
Recording
Controls & Features
Design
  • 5 older release date
    Shure MV51 is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    September 2015.
  • 14 mm thicker body
    Shure MV51 is thicker than the average microphone (70 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
  • 30 mm wider body
    Shure MV51 is wider than the average microphone (86 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a width of 56 mm.
  • No pop filter
    Shure MV51 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • 1 m shorter cable length
    Shure MV51 has a shorter cable than the average microphone (1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.
  • No pop filter
    Shure MV51 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
    When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
  • 5 older release date
    Shure MV51 is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    September 2015.
    What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
    When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2015 vs 2020
  • 2.71x more expensive
    Shure MV51 is more expensive than the average microphone (£190 vs £70).
    Shure MV51 is more expensive than the average microphone (£190 vs £70).£190 vs £70
  • 1 m shorter cable length
    Shure MV51 has a shorter cable than the average microphone (1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.
    What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 has a shorter cable than the average microphone (1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.1 m vs 2 m
  • 14 mm thicker body
    Shure MV51 is thicker than the average microphone (70 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
    What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
    When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 is thicker than the average microphone (70 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.70 mm vs 56 mm
  • 30 mm wider body
    Shure MV51 is wider than the average microphone (86 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a width of 56 mm.
    What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
    When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

    Importance: LOW

    Shure MV51 is wider than the average microphone (86 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a width of 56 mm.86 mm vs 56 mm
Total
Overall
Design
Accessories

Graphic comparison of Shure MV51 and

Attribute category
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
970 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
571 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Shure MV51?

  • Exceptional build quality with a durable, all-metal frame described as being 'built like a tank'.
  • Versatile digital signal processing (DSP) modes for speech, singing, acoustic, and loud music environments.
  • Convenient plug-and-play connectivity for PC, Mac, and mobile devices, including direct Lightning support for iOS.
  • Integrated touch panel for quick, silent adjustments to gain, mute, and headphone monitoring.
  • High-quality large-diaphragm condenser sound that provides rich warmth suitable for professional podcasting and demos.
  • Functional retro design featuring a built-in kickstand that also serves as a threaded mount for standard mic stands.

What customers dislike about Shure MV51?

  • Notably heavy at approximately 575 grams, which can limit portability compared to other USB microphones.
  • Highly sensitive to plosives and 'popping' noises due to the lack of an integrated pop filter.
  • Relies on an aging micro-USB connector rather than modern USB-C.
  • Advanced software controls and settings are primarily exclusive to the iOS ShurePlus MOTIV app.
  • Midrange frequencies can sometimes feel 'colored' or 'washed out,' lacking the absolute neutrality of high-end studio setups.
  • Touch controls can feel crude or lack the granularity of physical knobs for some users.

Expert reviews

P
pcmag.com
31/07/2018
Shure MV51 Review - PCMag

The Shure MV51, reviewed by PCMag, is a versatile $199 digital cardioid condenser microphone combining a vintage aesthetic with modern functionality, offering unique DSP-free and DSP-enabled recording modes. It features a robust build with a touch interface, zero-latency monitoring, and dual compatibility with USB and iOS devices, making it an excellent choice for mobile creators...Read more

S
soundonsound.com
15/05/2016
Shure MV51

The Shure MV51 is a solid digital condenser microphone designed to look like the classic 1950s Model 51 Sonodyne. It is built like a tank with a very strong metal frame and features an easy-to-use desktop kickstand that can unscrew for mounting on standard mic stands. This versatile microphone is aimed at podcasters and musicians alike, offering great compatibility with iOS devices...Read more

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mixdownmag.com.au
28/02/2020
Reviewed: Shure MV51 Microphone - Mixdown Magazine

The Shure MV51 is a plug-and-play USB microphone featuring a durable, vintage aesthetic inspired by the classic Shure Super 55 Deluxe. It eliminates the need for an audio interface or external software drivers, coming to life immediately via a micro-USB connection. Instead of traditional physical dials, it utilizes a modern touch panel to adjust mic gain, mute functions, and...Read more

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thepodcasthost.com
26/08/2016
Shure MV51 | A Podcasting Review

The Shure MV51 is a premium retro-styled microphone positioned at the top end of Shure's MOTIV range, offering robust multi-device versatility for podcasters and creators. Built with an exceptionally heavy, all-metal casing, it delivers an almost invincible feel and features an integrated rear stand with rubber shockmount pads that can also screw directly onto traditional boom arms....Read more

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medium.com
14/12/2016
Shure MV51 USB/Lightning Microphone Review | by Matt Sager

Matt Sager’s review of the Shure MV51 highlights the large-diaphragm condenser microphone for its rich, studio-grade audio quality that rivals traditional XLR setups through a versatile, plug-and-play USB/Lightning interface. Pros include its robust construction, intuitive front touch panel for quick gain adjustments, and exceptional portability for direct-to-device recording...Read more

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microphonegeeks.com
23/03/2017
Shure MV51 – Condenser USB microphone review

The Shure MV51 is an all-metal, feature-rich USB condenser microphone that excels specifically in close-miking applications due to its relatively large 1-inch capsule. This oversized capsule delivers unique sound qualities, including a very clean, deep low-frequency response that benefits up-close studio vocals, deep voices, podcasts, and even instruments like bass cabs and double...Read more

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geeksrising.com
22/11/2016
Shure MV51 Digital Condenser Mic Review / Test / Explained

Shure MV51 Microphone Review Summary The Shure MV51 is a $200 digital large-diaphragm condenser microphone specifically optimized for podcasters and musicians who need a reliable, highly portable recording setup while traveling. Built with an all-metal chassis and an integrated kickstand featuring a non-slip rubber foot, the microphone is built like a tank to easily withstand heavy...Read more

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churchproduction.com
17/06/2019
Review: Shure Motiv MV51 Large Diaphragm Microphone

The Church Production Magazine Review evaluates the Shure Motiv MV51, a digital large-diaphragm condenser microphone priced at $199, emphasizing its hybrid delivery of studio quality and portability. Pros highlighted in the review include its rock-solid, all-metal construction and an integrated adjustable kickstand that can be easily unscrewed to fit traditional mic stands....Read more

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soundgale.com
04/01/2024
Shure MV51 Review - Digital Condenser Microphone

The Shure MV51 is a mid-range digital condenser microphone that blends a striking 1970s vintage, die-cast metal design with modern features tailored for home studios, podcasting, and mobile recording. A standout feature is its responsive front touch panel, which includes real-time controls for input gain, headphone volume, muting, and five DSP preset modes (Speech, Singing,...Read more

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guitarinteractivemagazine.com
05/05/2024
Shure MV51 Digital Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Guitar Interactive Magazine review evaluates the Shure MV51 as a heavy-duty, highly capable digital condenser microphone that doubles as a plug-and-play audio interface. Built with a solid metal case reminiscent of the classic Art-Deco Model 55, this 575g microphone provides exceptional physical stability and immediate recognition on platforms like Windows and Mac without...Read more

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delamar.de
30/12/2015
Shure Motiv MV51 Review: A USB Microphone for Every Situation

The Shure Motiv MV51 is a highly durable, large-diaphragm digital condenser microphone designed for plug-and-play use without an external audio interface. It features a striking retro metal design inspired by classic vintage microphones and stands securely on a heavy, slip-resistant base. On the front, it offers an intuitive touch-panel interface to easily control volume, muting,...Read more

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bonedo.de
22/02/2021
Shure Motiv MV51-DIG Review - Bonedo

The Shure Motiv MV51-DIG is a robust, large-diaphragm electret condenser microphone designed for versatile digital recording across computers and mobile devices. It features an eye-catching vintage ribbed exterior combined with a modern front touch panel that allows intuitive control over gain, mute functions, headphone monitoring, and five built-in DSP presets ("Speech", "Singing",...Read more

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images.musicstore.de
30/12/2015
Shure Motiv MV51 Review - Music Store

The Delamar test report highlights the Shure Motiv MV51 as a versatile large-diaphragm USB condenser microphone, awarding it 4.5 out of 5 points for its robust, all-metal design and high-quality audio across PC, Mac, and mobile devices. Key pros include the intuitive front touch panel for monitoring gain/volume, five tailored DSP presets, and a built-in kickstand with an integrated,...Read more

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heise.de
15/03/2017
Motiv MV51: Digital microphone for Android and iOS - Heise

Shure Motiv MV51 The Shure Motiv MV51 is a versatile digital large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for home recording, podcasts, conference calls, and music rehearsals. Built into a robust 600-gram vintage-style metal chassis, it features an integrated adjustable stand that can be converted to fit standard microphone tripods. Key advantages highlighted in the review include...Read more

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clubic.com
02/06/2021
Shure MV51 Review: A versatile cardioid USB microphone

The Shure MV51 is a robust, all-metal USB microphone featuring a distinct retro aesthetic reminiscent of classic jazz or radio setups, combined with a highly intuitive touch-sensitive control panel for adjusting headphone volume, gain, and microphone settings. Although it is strictly limited to a unidirectional cardioid polar pattern, it delivers exceptional recording quality across...Read more

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insert-coin.fr
15/11/2020
SHURE MV51 - Microphone Review

The Insert Coin review of the Shure MV51 condenser microphone highlights it as a highly robust, easy-to-use, and versatile audio solution for content creators, streamers, and musicians. Weighing 570 grams due to its all-metal frame, the microphone stands out for its high build quality compared to lighter plastic alternatives. It is a plug-and-play device compatible with PC, Mac, and...Read more

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guglez.com
04/08/2020
The Best Microphone for Recording Videos? Shure MV51

In his review on GTechMx, Gunter Gonzalez highlights the Shure MV51 as a professional-grade cardioid condenser USB microphone that is highly effective for home recordings, podcasts, and video conferences. The reviewer notes that built-in camera microphones generally deliver poor audio at a distance, prompting him to find a high-quality alternative for voice-overs after cheaper...Read more

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iphoned.nl
15/09/2015
Shure MV51 review: classic microphone sounds excellent

Summary The Shure MV51 is a vintage-inspired digital condenser microphone designed for recording speech, vocals, and instruments on iOS, Mac, and PC devices. Priced at an advisory rate of 219 euros, it features a heavy, premium metal build with an adjustable steel kickstand and an intuitive touch panel for quick setting adjustments. Setup is seamless, especially on iOS devices...Read more

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