Electro-Voice RE20

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. You need a clean preamp; modest interfaces struggle with its low output. Shock mount (309A) is sold separately.

The Electro-Voice RE20 has been the broadcast-industry standard dynamic microphone for decades, used in radio stations, voiceover studios, and podcast setups worldwide. The defining feature is the Variable-D pattern, which keeps proximity effect minimal even when you move closer to the capsule — the bass response stays flat where most cardioid dynamics get muddy with mouth-to-mic distance changes. That makes it forgiving for podcasters who lean in and pull back during expressive recording. Pricing in 2026 ranges from around $399 at the low end to $499 at standard retail, with both Sweetwater financing options and aftermarket dealers offering competitive pricing. The microphone ships without a shock mount — the matching 309A shock mount is sold separately and adds meaningfully to the total setup cost. Power requirements: dynamic mic, no phantom power needed, but the relatively low output sensitivity means you want at least 60dB of clean gain from your interface, and SM7B-style Cloudlifter inline preamps often help on lower-tier interfaces. Tonality skews toward natural broadcast voice — warm low-mids, controlled presence, very little harshness. Where it shines is voice work where proximity-effect control matters and budget allows the premium tier. Where it falls short is portability, weight (it's heavy), and entry-level setups where the gain demands and accessory costs push the all-in price past $600.