Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs SSL 2+ MK2
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)
SSL 2+ MK2
Pros
- Two headphone outs with independent mixes
- Legacy 4K analog warmth circuit
- SSL preamp brand pedigree
Watch-outs
- $299 pricier than Scarlett 2i2
- Only two preamps
- No DSP routing software
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 SSL 2+ MK2 if
You’re building around . The SSL 2+ MKII is around $299, with the Legacy 4K analog enhancement circuit that emulates the famous SSL console warmth. Two headphone outputs with independent mixes is genuinely useful for guest setups.
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Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than SSL 2+ MK2?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". SSL 2+ MK2 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Two headphone outs with independent mixes" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick SSL 2+ MK2.
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. SSL 2+ MK2: $299 pricier than scarlett 2i2. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and SSL 2+ MK2 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 SSL 2+ MK2 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.