A prolific YouTuber runs today’s featured MacBook Pro setup. And you can tell it’s the pride and joy of a streamer or podcaster just by some of the crucial equipment. Namely, an excellent Shure SM7DB microphone run through a Focusrite Vocaster Two audio interface to ensure high-quality audio recording.
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FocusRite Vocaster Two audio interface boosts Shure microphone
YouTuber and Redditor MiRealEscape showcased the attactive setup in a post entitled, “Macbook Pro Setup version 1.0.” He runs a 14-inch M1 Pro MacBook Pro and a PC laptop, along with a 28-inch Asus 4K display, a PlayStation 5 and other peripherals, through an Orico 15-1 Thunderbolt 3 USB-C Docking Station bristling with ports.
“This is my semi-complete MacBook Pro Setup. I also swap it out with a windows laptop for my remote work,” he said. “For my personal use, I do content creation as I started a YouTube channel where I test out home office and gaming tech mostly. Hence the lazy cable management as I swap things in and out a lot.”
On Friday we focused on the Orico 15-1 Thunderbolt 3 USB-C Docking Station serving as a nexus between the computers and peripherals. On Monday we covered MiRealEscape’s EdifierR1280T wired speakers. Today we get more into the audio with the top-shelf Shure microphone and FocusRite Vocastor audio interface he uses in his streaming.
(And speaking of audio interfaces, don’t miss our guide to the best audio interfaces for Mac.)
Shure SM7DB microphone and Focusrite Vocaster audio interface
Photo: Shure
The SM7DB dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications, Shure said. It shields against electromagnetic hum from computer monitors, neon lights and other electrical devices.
This model includes an improved bracket design for good stability. In addition to its standard windscreen, it also includes the A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications. Impedance: 150 ohms for connection to microphone inputs rated at 19 to 300 ohms.
In this setup, the Shure mic sits on an Elgato low-profile arm and uses a Focusrite Vocaster Two audio interface as a mic input and amplifier. Here are the Vocaster Two’s features:
- Get broadcast-quality sound with Vocaster’s high-quality mic input.
- Realize more than 70dB of gain without a booster.
- Auto Gain sets levels in seconds.
- Four podcaster-approved presets reveal the true quality of your voice.
- Two mics, two headphones: Vocaster Two gives both presenters their own headphone output and Show Mix.
- Mute button can cuts out coughs, sneezes and any other interruptions.
- Connect your phone via Bluetooth or with a single TRRS cable and capture the whole conversation, or play music and other high quality audio from your device straight onto your show.
- Send Vocaster’s high-quality audio straight to your camera with a single TRS cable and level-up your vlog.
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Photo: MiRealEscape@Reddit.com
Microphone, interface and other audio gear:
- Shure SM7DB Dynamic Vocal Microphone
- FocusRite Vocaster Two audio interface
- Edifier R1280 Powered Speakers on Kanto S4 tilted stands
- Elgato low profile mic arm
- Audio Technica ATH-M50X headphones
- PlayStation 5 Pulse headset
Computers and dock:
- 14-inch M1 Pro MacBook Pro
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (6th generation)
- Orico 15-1 Thunderbolt 3 USB-C Docking Station
- PlayStation 5 on under-desk PS5 Stealth mount
Display and monitor light:
Input devices:
- Logitech MX Mechanical wireless keyboard
- Aothia Wooden wrist rest
- Logitech MX Master 3 wireless mouse
Furniture:
If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to info+setups@cultofmac.com. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.
The SM7DB dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications.
