Electro-Voice RE20 Review – The Classic Boradcaster's Choice

Design:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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The RE20 from Electro-Voice is undoubtedly one of the most respected microphones in the world of broadcasting, found in professional radio stations across America. For this reason alone, it proves to be one of the most popular dynamic microphones you can find for under $500 at the moment! Today we’re going to take a closer look and see exactly what it has to offer.

Design

Electro-Voice tends to use the same simple but distinctive design for many of their models, although the higher-end RE20 certainly feels like it’s a big step above some of the more affordable mics in their collection in terms of quality.

It features a heavy-duty diecast steel chassis with a tasteful champagne finish, with a large grille making up half the real estate. Although the RE20 was obviously made with function in mind, it still feels pretty stylish. Of course, being an industry-standard mic – and considering the price tag – the build quality is excellent. It’s robust and heavy enough (1.6lb) to inspire confidence in any studio.

Features

The core of the RE20 is the moving coil capsule, with a large diaphragm, humbucking coil and an internal shock mount. It features a fixed cardioid pattern, with no coloration at 180-degrees off-axis. This mic also features both an internal pop filter and the famed Variable-D technology, that helps a lot with minimizing the dreaded proximity effect.

The only actual switch found on this mic is the bass roll-off. As for accessories, you’ll find a mic stand clip and a basic softshell case in which to store the mic. The combination of all this, along with the listed frequency response of 45Hz to 18kHz, points towards why broadcasting studios love this microphone so much.

Performance

The build and features of the RE20 ultimately deliver a reliable microphone that is geared towards recording clear, defined vocals. The combination of the pop filter and the Variable-D tech really allows you to get up close and personal with this mic without pushing it outside its comfort zone, while the humbucking coil keeps mechanical noise silent. As it accommodates so well for a wider lower end, it’s an excellent choice for those with a naturally deep voice.

The RE20 is a model that is often profiled and we are as guilty of that by stating it’s the perfect broadcasting mic – but that’s only because it is! While it gives vocals a warm and pure character, the RE20 works very well instruments too – bass drums and acoustic guitars in particular – delivering a clear recording with great side and back noise rejection.

Conclusion

At the risk of profiling it once again, the RE20 is the perfect example of what a good dynamic broadcasting mic should be – no wonder it is so popular with professional broadcasters. With a solid build, exceptional sound quality, noise reduction features, and a pinch of that Electro-Voice magic, in a studio setting it is a formidable tool that will allow you plenty of freedom.

For more info about the Electro-Voice RE20, click here.
For more Dynamic Microphone you might like, click here.