Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Heil PR40
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)
Heil PR40
Pros
- Wider frequency response than typical dynamic
- Strong rear noise rejection
- Warm low end, articulate mids
Watch-outs
- Shock mount (PRSM) sold separately
- Less common than SM7B
- Needs clean preamp gain
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 Heil PR40 if
You’re building around . The Heil PR40 is a wider-response dynamic than typical, with rear noise rejection that punches above its price. Currently around $339-$379.
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Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than Heil PR40?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". Heil PR40 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Wider frequency response than typical dynamic" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick Heil PR40.
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. Heil PR40: shock mount (prsm) sold separately. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and Heil PR40 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 Heil PR40 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.