Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
Two of the equipment tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
Electro-Voice RE20
Pros
- Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)
- Broadcast-grade tone, used at major stations
- Built to last decades
Watch-outs
- $399-$499 puts it out of starter range
- 309A shock mount sold separately
- Needs ~60dB clean gain (Cloudlifter often helps)
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
Pros
- 69dB clean preamp gain (handles SM7B better)
- Auto Gain sets levels automatically
- Huge software bundle (Ableton, plugins)
Watch-outs
- Only two inputs — no round-tables
- No DSP routing
- USB-C only (no Thunderbolt)
Which one should you pick?
Pick Electro-Voice RE20 if
You’re building around . The RE20 is the broadcast-industry standard for a reason — Variable-D pattern means proximity effect stays minimal even when you move close. Currently around $399-$499 at major retailers.
Pick Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) if
You’re building around . The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is the default 2-input USB interface for podcasters. Auto Gain feature sets levels for you, 69dB of clean preamp gain (up from 57dB on previous gens), and the included software bundle is real.
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Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) doesn't make that promise — it leans into "69dB clean preamp gain (handles SM7B better)" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen).
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen): only two inputs — no round-tables. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) together?
Both are equipment tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using Electro-Voice RE20 for one show or episode type and Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.