Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone with Variable-D

This is an industry-standard microphone for a reason. I was looking for a mic that would sound great for voice recording with an untreated space while also being versatile enough for instruments. I was deciding between the Shure SM7B and the EV RE20, and ultimately chose the RE20 because of its flatter frequency response. It did not disappoint. I’d consider this one of the best mid-range dynamic microphones available. While the SM7B is slightly cheaper, it’s also very gain-hungry and often requires an inline preamp. I personally had issues pairing the SM7B with a Focusrite Scarlett, whereas the RE20 performs well without the extra hardware. Around +50 dB of gain is plenty for general voice-over work. The mic arrived with a stand clip, carrying case, warranty card, instruction manual, and a registration code for the serial number. Everything worked perfectly out of the box. The only minor issue was that I needed to tighten the stand clip with a flathead screwdriver, as the weight of the mic caused it to slowly tilt downward. I’ve seen many people mention experiencing a high noise floor with this mic, but if you run into that issue, it may actually be your XLR cable. Don’t cheap out on cabling. I use a custom 15-foot Mogami Starquad cable with Neutrik gold connectors and have had zero noise problems. It did cost around $50, but get a cable that will last you forever instead of some cheap $10 one. The mic has excellent build quality, very good off-axis rejection, and little to no noticeable proximity effect. I mainly use it for gaming and YouTube, but it also sounds great on brass and bass cab. The RE20 does include a built-in pop filter, but I still notice a fair amount of plosives if I speak directly into it. Angling my voice slightly off-axis helps a lot. If you’re choosing between the SM7B and RE20, I’d personally recommend the RE20 for most home setups. I have heard that the SM7B sounds better on guitar cab, but otherwise I’ve just liked the RE20 so much more.

The Electro-Voice RE20 is a legendary microphone that has been a staple in broadcasting since its introduction in 1968. Its Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect, ensuring consistent sound quality even with close-miking techniques. The RE20's rugged, industrial design not only appeals to my aesthetic preferences but also delivers exceptional durability. In comparison to the Shure SM7B, another popular choice among podcasters and YouTubers, I find the RE20's sound profile better complements my voice, providing clean and crisp audio that enhances my recordings. While the RE20 may not have the sleek appearance of some competitors, its performance and reliability make it a superior choice for those seeking professional-grade sound quality. Although it's an investment, the RE20's proven track record and exceptional build quality make it worth every penny. I couldn't be happier with this purchase and highly recommend it to anyone serious about their audio production.

When I say that the RE20 is one of the best mics in history, I mean it. Trust me, it's not just me who says this. This microphone graced radio stations for the first time back in 1968 and has been the standard for radio broadcasting ever since. I was fortunate enough to use the RE20 for the first time back in 1976 when I began my career in AM radio. The look, the feel, and the sound of the mic exceeded my expectations. I didn't realize that this baby would still be around this many years later. If you are a serious podcaster, vlogger, streamer, gamer, or whatever, and want to step up your game in sound, you can't go wrong with the RE20. Nope, it's not cheap, but your brand will definitely improve with it. Pull the trigger and buy the RE20. You'll love it.

i was able to finally purchase a couple of these last year as they were on my long time wish list being a 26 year radio DJ veteran the station where I do my shows still have the same RE20 mic in the studio they had when I first began in 1996 ( the label lists Electro voice being in Buchanan Michigan while the current label lists Burnsville Minnesota) their Mic still works and sounds great considering its age and for me there is no substitute for Good Quality when you buy an RE 20 keep in mind You're paying more for Quality And not so much for Advertising and to me its well worth the Investment just make sure you take The Best care of this Microphone and it will always be reliable I love my EV mics so much I replaced all the cheaper copycats with them they work well with voices and instruments hence its versatility I Highly recommend The RE20 it is pricey but worth it and if you can get it on sale ( which happens on occasion) thats the best time to get one or two UPDATE 9-30-2021 after a year I'm still very Happy with my RE20s as a seasoned Radio and Pro audio geek I can say by experience This is the very best mic you can get for the money and in my experience no cheaper copy cat mic can ever come close to the EV RE series ( my favorites being this and The omnidirectional 635 A and it's longer handle version) ANOTHER UPDATE 7-20-2023 Since my last review I bought a couple more of these I continue to have excellent results with this very fine microphone the RE20 Is permanently my daily driver in my home studio and I expect them to outlive me and I hope to pass them down to my Grandchildren someday as souvenirs of my years of radio and recording hopefully that will be Many Many years away but meanwhile I will continue using this versatile tool very gladly.

Wasted your time with cheap mics like Yeti Blues or $100-200 mics? Well, I did too and I wasn't happy about it. I spend a ton of time watching reviews and comparisons, history, and sound samples and this is where I ended up at. Having been used for vocals on several famous records in the 60's alone and continues to be used in just about every studio. Not to mention that it's a staple in just about every radio station or broadcast session. Here's my big takeaways and why this is my fav mic: 1) Cost is relatively low compared to high end mics. Expensive for small time or beginner podcasters or musicians but will last you a lifetime and you'll still be at the top of your game. 2) Rejects background noise VERY well. If you are in an untreated room (i.e. you don't have acoustic panels etc.) this can still sound really great. 3) Built in Pop filter that can handle most plosives without requiring a separate Pop filter (your mileage may vary though depending your voice). Speak into the mic off center if it's an issue. 4) Great at handling proximity effect - you don't have to worry about your tone changing if you aren't always on top of the mic. 5) Built like a tank - this thing will be around after the bombs drop with cockroaches and Keith Richards.

I am an independent hip hop producer/ artist. I love this mic because of its versatility. It's gonna capture those lower freqs on the vocals much better than the staple home studio MXL900 mic. It seems a favorite in the hip hop world...at least for beginners. I added the RE20 into the mix with a AKG Perception 100 (which really does no justice for lows). When used together as an acoustic equalization...very nice sounds. Back to the RE20... If the vocalist has a high voice, its a great mic and if the vocalist has a more bassy voice...its a great mic. You might be using a rolloff a bit though as it seems to capture those freqs well. As it advertises, you can get all up in the mic as most rappers do. I emphasize rappers because the abrasiveness of the style in its attack. I am currently powered by an M-Audio Ultra Track preamp...which as a 45db gain on it. Many say the RE20 will need a really high boost. I'm not going to agree. With the preamp I'm using, the pot is turned up a little passed the half way mark, leaving plenty of head room. As you can see, its construction is also worthy of the title "workhorse". I hate the default mic holder, though...so wimpy and non adjustable. While the fancy upgrade does look a lot nicer and is more secure, you CAN find the right angle to place the mic w/o it falling over. This kinda depends on you needs for mic placement. If you need the mic to be parallel to the ground...get the upgrade. If you can work with the mic at a 45 degree angle, pointing upward..the stand holder will work. As for the price...GREATNESS!...Some of the other sites are asking for $700-$800. Craziness. Thank you AMAZON.com Guy Shifty

A legendary microphone that will last two lifetimes. Looks cooler than SM7B, sounds surprisingly great on acoustic guitar, and nails bass and electrics. I do have to do some de-essing on vocals with it as I find it very sibilant

One of the best voiceover microphones available! The RE20 is excellent for both recording and live production.

Hands down my favorite mic. It sounds amazing across a lot of different vovices, it's durable, it's fantastic. Worth every penny.

The RE20 is well known and well received - and I got exactly what I wanted: A professional broadcast microphone. Zero complaints, happy with everything.

هذا افضل مايك جربته من بين كل المايكات الاحترافيه اذا تبي صوت صافي و كرسبي اشتريه ( لازم تزبط الاكوالايزر )

El mejor micrófono que he tenido, llevo más o menos un mes usándolo. Soy maestra de música y me ha servido mucho para hacer cursos, lives y ponencias. Recomiendo muchísimo.

Mucho muy contento con mi compra! Mis respetos para este micrófono. Está increíble! Por algo es referente.