Name: Electro-Voice RE20
Brand: Electro-Voice

Technical Specifications of Electro-Voice RE20

Overall score

5.8

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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.

Audio Performance

8.6

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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

dynamic

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

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

Connectivity

5.2

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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

XLR

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

XLR

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

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

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

Recording

4.0

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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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

Pickup Patterns

3.2

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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

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

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

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

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

Controls & Features

6.3

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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

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

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

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

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

Power

7.0

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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

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

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

Design

5.3

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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

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

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

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

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

steel

Accessories

6.1

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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

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

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

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

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

N/A

Compatibility

7.2

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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

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

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

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

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

Electro-Voice RE20 vs the average microphone

Why is Electro-Voice RE20 better than the average microphone?

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Includes high-pass filter
Electro-Voice RE20 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.
Importance: LOW
Electro-Voice RE20 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
23.5 dB wider dynamic range
Electro-Voice RE20 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.
Importance: MEDIUM
Electro-Voice RE20 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.120 dB vs 96.5 dB
Supports balanced output
Electro-Voice RE20 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.
Importance: LOW
Electro-Voice RE20 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
23.5 dB wider dynamic range
Electro-Voice RE20 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (120 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
Supports balanced output
Electro-Voice RE20 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
Includes high-pass filter
Electro-Voice RE20 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.

Why is Electro-Voice RE20 worse than the average microphone?

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25 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Electro-Voice RE20 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (45 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Electro-Voice RE20 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
No headphone output
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
No zero-latency monitoring
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
No USB bus power
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
52 older release date
Electro-Voice RE20 is older than the average microphone (1,968 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
28.6% heavier
Electro-Voice RE20 is heavier than the average microphone (737 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
With included stand.
31.7 mm taller body
Electro-Voice RE20 is taller than the average microphone (216.7 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
Not compatible with Android
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with iOS
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Requires external audio interface.
No zero-latency monitoring
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.
Importance: MEDIUM
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
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
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
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
Electro-Voice RE20 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
No USB bus power
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
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
Electro-Voice RE20 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
25 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Electro-Voice RE20 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (45 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.
Importance: LOW
Electro-Voice RE20 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (45 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.45 Hz vs 20 Hz
Not compatible with iOS
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Requires external audio interface.
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
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with Android
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
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
Electro-Voice RE20 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Electro-Voice RE20 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.
Importance: LOW
Electro-Voice RE20 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.18000 Hz vs 20000 Hz

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Electro-Voice RE20?

Excellent off-axis rejection and ambient noise reduction, making it ideal for untreated rooms and loud environments.
Variable-D technology virtually eliminates the proximity effect (bass boost when close to the mic), ensuring consistent sound quality.
Incredibly rugged and durable, often described as a 'studio workhorse' built to last.
Internal pop filter effectively minimizes plosives and p-pops.
Very versatile; performs exceptionally well for spoken word, broadcasting, and a wide variety of musical instruments.
Flatter, more articulated response than many other dynamic microphones in its class.

What customers dislike about Electro-Voice RE20?

It is a gain-hungry microphone and requires a high-quality preamp or an inline mic activator (like a Cloudlifter) to get a strong signal.
Lacks the 'instant magic' or high-end sparkle of coveted tube condenser mics, often requiring a bit of EQ during post-production.
Heavy and bulky, requiring a sturdy and reliable microphone boom arm or stand.
Internal foam can degrade on older, second-hand models, and the proprietary suspension shock mount (642A) is quite expensive.
Not ideal for highly sibilant voices, as the brighter top end can sometimes exaggerate 's' and 't' sounds.

Expert reviews

microphonegeeks.com

16/09/2020

Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Dynamic Microphone Review

The Electro-Voice RE20 is heavily praised as an industry-standard broadcast dynamic microphone that delivers exceptional, reliable audio quality. Reviewed at a $399 price point, its standout technical feature is the Variable-D response, which minimizes the proximity effect to keep the sound uniform and clear even if the speaker moves around. Sonically, the reviewer describes its...Read more

homebrewaudio.com

30/07/2025

Review Of The EV RE20 Dynamic Microphone

The Electro-Voice RE20 is an industry-standard, end-address dynamic microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern that excels remarkably well at vocal and broadcast recording. A major standout feature is its proprietary "Variable-D" design, which effectively eliminates the proximity effect (the bundling of low frequencies when speaking close to the capsule). Combined with a heavy-duty...Read more

podcastage.com

18/01/2026

Electro Voice RE20 Review / Test - Podcastage

Despite its legendary status, the review notes specific drawbacks to consider before purchasing. The primary drawback of the RE20 is its performance with highly sibilant voices, as the brighter top-end response can unpleasantly accentuate harsh "S" and "T" sounds. Additionally, because it is a low-output dynamic microphone, users will likely need a high-quality audio interface or a...Read more

15/12/2025

Electro Voice RE-20 Broadcast Dynamic Mic Review / Test

The Electro-Voice RE20 is an exceptionally popular broadcast dynamic microphone reviewed by Bandrew Scott of Podcastage. In his analysis, Scott highlights that while some users find the physical aesthetic of the microphone to be ugly, it delivers an outstandingly "rad" audio performance specifically tailored for spoken word applications. A standout pro of the microphone is its...Read more

gearspace.com

19/10/2011

Electro-Voice RE20 - User review - Gearspace

The Electro-Voice RE20 review on ⁠Gearspace highlights the microphone as a versatile, neutral-sounding studio workhorse with a highly effective "Variable D" design that eliminates proximity effect, making it ideal for close-up tracking. Users find it excellent for lead vocals, acoustic guitars, and kick drums, praising its tight low-frequency response. While offering high-quality...Read more

soundonsound.com

15/07/2010

Vocal Mics - Sound On Sound

The Sound on Sound vocal microphone review details a comprehensive shootout involving 14 microphones across dynamic, condenser, valve, and ribbon categories tested on four distinct student vocalists to evaluate voice-to-microphone matching. In the female jazz/pop/rock category, the highly expensive AKG C12VR and Microtech Gefell M92.1S valve mics emerged as favourites for their...Read more

bonedo.de

27/01/2012

Electro-Voice RE20 Review", "Electro-Voice RE20 Test

The Electro-Voice RE20 is an exceptionally robust, dynamic large-diaphragm microphone that has earned its status as an industry standard in recording, live sound, and broadcast environments. Featuring a lightweight aluminum voice coil and an "Acoustalloy" diaphragm, it delivers a remarkably fast, natural, and transparent sound that is frequently mistaken for a condenser microphone....Read more

projethomestudio.fr

11/07/2023

9 of the Best Dynamic Microphones

The reviewed article compiles a curated selection of 9 top dynamic microphones suitable for studio, home studio, and stage use, emphasizing their affordability, durability, and high sound pressure handling compared to condenser mics. Dynamic microphones operate on a simple electromagnetic principle and are highly praised for being "indulgent" on vocal imperfections, though they...Read more

fr.audiofanzine.com

31/01/2024

Electro-Voice RE20 Microphone Review: RE20/20

This review highlights the Electro-Voice RE20 as a legendary, industry-standard dynamic microphone for broadcasting and podcasting, earning a perfect 10/10 score and a "Legend Award". Tested under realistic home-studio conditions rather than a professional studio, the microphone delivers exceptional clarity and an open sound that rivals static condenser microphones, but without the...Read more

studio-microphone.com

Date non spécifiée

EV RE20 - Review & Test", "EV RE20 - Test & Review

The Electro-Voice RE20 is a premium cardioid dynamic microphone designed for studio recording, voice-over work, and podcasting. Its standout feature is its proprietary "Variable D" design, which eliminates the proximity effect, ensuring consistent and natural vocal recordings even when speaking or singing very close to the capsule. Additionally, it features a heavy-duty,...Read more

Electro-Voice RE20 Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Electro-Voice RE20

Electro-Voice RE20 vs the average microphone

Why is Electro-Voice RE20 better than the average microphone?

Why is Electro-Voice RE20 worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Electro-Voice RE20 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Electro-Voice RE20?

What customers dislike about Electro-Voice RE20?

Expert reviews

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