Head-to-head comparison
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Stedman Proscreen XL V2
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)
Stedman Proscreen XL V2
Pros
- Metal mesh doesn't dull high frequencies
- Wipes clean with a damp cloth
- Lifetime warranty from Stedman
Watch-outs
- Five to six times the cost of fabric filters
- Metal can ring if you hit it with a mic
- Heavier — some clamps slip under its weight
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 Stedman Proscreen XL V2 if
You’re building around . Stedman's metal-mesh pop filter is what serious vocal studios use and what most podcasters skip because the cheap fabric one works. The difference is real: the patented metal screen reflects plosive air downward instead of absorbing it, doesn't dull highs the way fabric does, wipes clean, and lasts forever.
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Frequently asked
What does Electro-Voice RE20 do better than Stedman Proscreen XL V2?
Electro-Voice RE20's standout is "Minimal proximity effect (Variable-D)". Stedman Proscreen XL V2 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Metal mesh doesn't dull high frequencies" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Electro-Voice RE20; if the second does, pick Stedman Proscreen XL V2.
What are the trade-offs?
Electro-Voice RE20: $399-$499 puts it out of starter range. Stedman Proscreen XL V2: five to six times the cost of fabric filters. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Electro-Voice RE20 and Stedman Proscreen XL V2 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 Stedman Proscreen XL V2 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.