Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Mackie DLZ Creator
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)
Mackie DLZ Creator
Pros
- Large 10.1" touchscreen interface
- Assistive setup wizard helps beginners
- Mix Agent AI processing per channel
Watch-outs
- ~$800 pricier than Rodecaster Pro II
- Newer ecosystem, fewer YouTube guides
- Fewer included sound effects than Rodecaster
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 Mackie DLZ Creator if
You’re building around . The Mackie DLZ Creator is around $799.99 — direct competitor to the Rodecaster Pro II in the all-in-one podcast console category.
Also worth comparing
Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than Mackie DLZ Creator?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". Mackie DLZ Creator doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Large 10.1" touchscreen interface" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick Mackie DLZ Creator.
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. Mackie DLZ Creator: ~$800 pricier than rodecaster pro ii. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and Mackie DLZ Creator 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 Mackie DLZ Creator for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.