Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Sony PCM-D10
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)
Sony PCM-D10
Pros
- Excellent converters and preamps
- Rugged metal chassis built to last
- Three switchable internal mic configurations
Watch-outs
- $498-$650 expensive vs Zoom H-series
- No 32-bit float recording
- Heavier than competitors
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 Sony PCM-D10 if
You’re building around . The Sony PCM-D10 is the upscale portable recorder pick, around $498-$650. Rugged metal chassis, 24-bit/192kHz converters, three switchable internal mic configurations, plus two XLR/TRS inputs.
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Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than Sony PCM-D10?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". Sony PCM-D10 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Excellent converters and preamps" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick Sony PCM-D10.
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. Sony PCM-D10: $498-$650 expensive vs zoom h-series. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and Sony PCM-D10 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 Sony PCM-D10 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.