In their defense, if it is even a defense rather than a compliment to how amazing of a mic it is that it doesn't need an improvement, the black finish is BEAUTIFUL. The paint job is just stunning.
RE20 > SM7b. Change my mind. In all seriousness, love to see my baby get a re-review after all this time. While I also love my SM7b, the RE20 for me will always hold sentimental value for me seeing that it was my first and so far still my favorite dynamic vocal microphone.
For speech, I totally agree, especially for podcasts and streaming and other situations where the speaker won’t be staying the same proximity from the mic. Variable-D is amazing, and this should be the podcasting/streaming standard that the SM7B has somehow become. For music, the SM7B is more versatile and works in virtually any application, whereas the RE20 works best with the human voice and other midrange-y sources. That makes the SM7B my desert-island mic, but if I ever have the money I’ll own both 😋
Depends on your voice. If you have a rich lower mid with a bunch of weird bullshit up top, the SM7b is a lot better. That said, the RE20 has richer mids than most of its competitors, and sounds pretty great.
I agree, when it comes to look in particular no match. I personally own a rode procaster. Never loved the looks of the sm7b. Even the sound quality is not much better.
@@jkf9167 I have a bass-baritone voice, lots of strong lows. Would the SM7B be better for me or the RE20? I already got the SM7B, but perhaps will consider a switch.
I became a radio DJ at a radio station in Hungary almost 20 years ago, where RE20 was in every studio. The owner spent a lot of time in America on rural, local radios, so he chose this one. Then when I switched to another radio station, there were Shure SM7Bs. I mean, everywhere, in every studio. The chief technical buddy studied his profession at urban American radios. This guy there called the RE20 fans loser with stick ears and fool. (Just like the owner of the previous radio called SM7B fans fool.) And that’s when I realized it's like an AMD-Intel, Canon-Nikon, Coca-Pepsi, Android-iOS, etc duel. But that was two decades ago. Today, is RE20 more common in a country radio and SM7B more common in an urban station? Is this still the case today in the U.S.?
@@Mediaright lol there definitely are trends even with mics. Shure sm7b has become ultra popular just because everyone copies each other. 95% of content creators use the mic such wrong way that it kills me
The RE20 is a winner for me, mostly because the Shure mic doesn’t negate the proximity effect, so it sounds like the sound can easily be bouncing up and down by slightly leaning closer into the mic and not stay consistent like the RE20
Now I've reduced my body size from 6 foot 6 inches to100 nanometers so I can slip past the very firm metal mesh grill and stand in front of the capsule to show the proximity effect and this is how it sounds
Regarding the shock mount observation. When I first got this mic I had it mounted on a Rode boom arm, with no shock mount, attached to my desk using a clamp. Whenever I would start typing on my (cherry) mechanical keyboard I was SHOCKED by how loud the sound was. I was literally looking into buying a new keyboard because it was making it very hard to hear my voice if I needed to type while streaming. But, lucky for me, one day I accidentally like, I dunno, breathed on the boom arm? And noticed that any vibration that hit the boom arm went straight into the mic. So I bought the shock mount and suddenly the keys from my keyboard where in the audible range I was expecting (still there, but ASMR style, not HEY YOU LISTEN TO ME style). No problems at all! Moral: ohmygodgettheshockmountoryouwillhateyourlife but….love this mic, probably my favorite mic I’ve ever had, highly recommend.
Love these re reviews. Would really like to see one for the Samson Q2u. It's my go-to recommendation for most people who need an affordable mic, but I'm curious if there are other compelling options now.
The SM7B gives you a full sound to work with but the RE20’s profile records how I would usually EQ a vocal. As the saying goes, record it properly and the mix takes care of itself.
re20 has served me well over 5 years. is still my favorite dynamic since then. prefer it much more than the sm7b as the mount is much more convenient, its sturdier, and has a more clear and pronounced profile. It also requires less gain which I find nice as I no longer needed a fethead
You crack me up, brah. I am a RE20 fanboi, and your review offered no cure. Mine is snuggled in a Rycote InVision USM shock mount at the end of a O.C. White Co. Ultima mic arm, and I'm confident it'll stand up to your annoying tapping. Listening to the comparisons, I thought that the Earthworks ETHOS sounded like butter. If I could only have one and cost was not a factor, that's the one I'd pick. In fact I did pick it. Now I'm always conflicted about which gain knob to twist as I keep both cabled-up and plugged in. This is all your fault, Bandrew. I thank you all the time.
Damn. The RE20 sounds closer to a condenser, better detail, fuller, than an SM7B. You’re right about the great top end. Damn. I own the SM7B, not the RE20.
I purchased the RE-20 because after listening to many many reviews and comparisons, to me it demonstrated the closest sound to a U87 I could find in a dynamic (which I desired due to the excellent rejection). Your review and comparison reaffirms this. :)
EV RE20 just have more spark and life, like it show dynamics whereas I think the SM7B it a bit more dull and monotonous in it's tone which make it great for bedtime stories where you want someone to sleep. Btw what third party shock mount would work with the EV RE20 since the original one is a bit too pricey?
Keeping us on our toes! Appreciate the extra bits of entertainment inserted into an otherwise serious evaluation - the style keeps this viewer engaged. Keep it up!
I just bought my RE 20 and I run it through the RodeCaster Pro. I’m extremely impressed with its build and overall performance. Couldn’t be happier with my decision to buy it. Hint: look for package deals. I got the shock mount and a 20’ XLR cable for an extra $25 ($475 total)
The SM7B has major problems with vocal fry type voices because its very dry and neutral as a dynamic. Iv seen way to many people get bad results from the SM7B because of this. I hate that its become the standard for streaming because its very expensive for what you get and a cheaper condenser microphone will get you much better results with spoken word. Im sure the SM7B has its place in radio and music recording, but the trophy has to go to the RE20 in the regard for streaming and spoken word. You cant beat the open warmth of the mic. Its almost like a condenser with a slight dynamic color added.
I just sold my RE20, in November. I ended up going back to the sm7b, i like the proximity effect of the shure, but i do miss the re20 now and then. Great re-review :)
Thank you for doing this review and comparison again. I was hoping you'd compare the RE20 with the Audio Technica BP 40. I think that's a really good mic and is comparable to the RE 20. I own both and love both but am interested in your opinion and those of your subscribers
Bandrew, I want to thank you for your dedication and detailed reviews on products like this. This video helped me on my mic exploration journey and I decided to grab this EV RE20 in that handsome matte charcoal. It's been over a year & I am super happy with it! Don't think I will need another mic for a long time, I have adopted the philosophy that you have said so many times that it's all about Quality over Quantity if you can afford it. Keep up the great work man.. I'm also loving all of the Clipcastage Clips sir...... Just thought I'd let ya know that I appreeeeeyahhhh! Take Care, KJP
Thank you so much for the support and the kind words. I’m thrilled the video helped you make the right choice so you can buy it once and buy it right and get on with the production of great sounding content. Keep it up KJP! Thanks again.
Hi, Poddcastage. Do you notice any difference at all between the RE-20 black or the classic color version in the tone of the mic, etc. ? I'm just curious if you notice anything at all or are they identical sounding ?- thanks in advance. also any personal preference of exterior look (black vs the classic color)?
They should be identical. If there is any difference in this video I'm not sure if that's due to a manufacturing difference between black and beige, or if it's the fact that they were produced 7 years apart and there are minor fluctuations in manufacturing over 7 years. Also 7 years of use means 7 years of foam degradation that will affect the original one that I was using. I'm sure that if you bought either color nowadays they would sound as close to identical as two mics of the same model that are not a matched pair can. The color choice would be 100% down to your personal preference. I PERSONALLY like the old beige, but also appreciate the matte black.
yep, I was kinda afraid you were going to say that last statement... I outfitted my podcast studio with 4 of these in.... BLACK (uh oh?). .. I had one of these RE20's in the baige color when I was around 17 years old playing radio back in the day when one need 2 of everything to mix between stuff unless you wanted "dead air" .. for example, I had 2 cd players so after a song is over, I could overlap just before the song would start studio fading out into the other song (from cd player #2).. same with my "fake" commercial spots.. I'd have 2 cassette decks and each cassette would have a few commercials (i'd set my mixer into cue mode and cue up the next spot quickly before the other one was over so I could overlap at the tail out music bed / end of commercial spot.. you get the picture.. anyway, sorry for the long story.. just the idea is that a guy who hired me to play drums, a keyboard / singer, convinced me to even trade to his EV RE-27 N/D if I gave him my RE-20 so after doing some homework on the jump in price, i figured it was a better mic.. it was definitely hotter than the RE-20 and honestly I liked it after rolling off the high end toggle switch. So thre you have it.. If I had to purchase again, I'd go with the old school color of the RE-20. The black finish to me looks like these mics were in a fire lol. okay thanks for reading my long winded text / response 🙃@@Podcastage
I personally love the looks of the ev mics and also the rode procaster (which I have). Don't know why most people prefer the looks of the Shure SM7b with its little tail dangling out, i mean the xlr connection looks unprofessional. Also the foam pop filter doesn't look as reliable since it is not protected by a hard mesh outside.
RE20 sounds a lot clearer for me vs SM7B. SM7B sounds too bassy and congested. I think people overdo the bass + proximity effect on most pods/radio but I also get most speakers it goes through are tinny and low bass in comparison to my setup so it probably is overemphasised for me vs average listener. I'm 100% in the RE20 camp. Having said that what I found funny was how in the treated room with a decent interface the behringer sounds so close lol. Could probably save money with some EQ and behringers vs using the expensive ones.
RE20 is amazing, but their mount is horrible and expensive. It keeps getting loose and multiple times I was about to drop it, so I modified it. Either my unit is faulty or I'm doing something wrong but still is expensive anyways
Oh brother, I thought the RE320 would be similar enough. I thought wrong. The more I use the SM7B the more I love it. I'm so glad your last video inspired me to give it another try. My wonder is if you can put the RE20 farther back from your voice (physical distance) and get a richer sound than the SM7B (on balance)? Or are they the same. That's another thing I'd love to see added to your videos. What you believe is the optimum distance from each mic, or a range. 4 fingers for both? My questions pertain to using it on a desk for UA-cam narrations.
@@christopherjames3762 Thanks for input! If I start singing Electro-Voice would send someone to take the mic away and my wife would pay $100 for them to take me away with it ;)
Compared to most of the comparison mics, the RE20 sounds like it's wearing an N95 mask. It's not muted in the highs or presence, it's the high _mids_ that are conspicuously absent (imho). To me it doesn't sound like a music mic _at all,_ it's broadcast/spoken word all the way.
I appreciate this video. For your voice, the RE20 is very good compliment. The Earthworks series are also impressive too, I'd say they're more neutral. The RE20 has defined tone that's pretty apparent and the RE20 is livelier than the SM7b. I've always found the SM7b requires a bit of finessing. I've been debating adding one to my roster for years now. It might be the day.
Good job subverting expectations 😂sadly the default mount is the weakest link in the package, though if you get the Electro voice shockmount it's big and metal enough to defend your studio with on its own. I managed to pick a used RE27N/D up and with the distinct addition of more top end it has become my favorite mic very very quickly. Just comparing my own SM7b to my RE27 - I prefer the RE27 for my voice, and for spoken word in general for many voices. The SM7b isn't diminished by this though, it's a wonderful mic that still has more than enough utility for voice or for many other recording needs. And - much like the Jacob Collier video - every mic is a paintbrush. Each voice and each recording may need a different pigment and any preferred mic has a place in the locker.
I might be crazy, but I thought your new RE20 sounded just a little richer than your old one. I bought a used RE20, and it's a bit boomy, even with the high pass filter engaged. I was going to send it in for repair but EV wants $315 for refurbishment. I'd rather buy a new one and get the 3-year warranty. I wonder if you noticed a slight improvement in your new RE20? Or is it just the great new black patina?
Thanks for the video. It's weird that when you're going through the RE20 and other mics that the sound from the RE20 has a harshness in the upper mids and high frequencies where mics like the SM58 just sound better and smoother. I'm listening through an audio interface and Shure SRH840 headphones and the upper-mid frequencies coming off the RE20 just make it sound like trash. Maybe it works for people listening on earpods or something. I know this is a good mic so it's weird to hear it like this. Possibly something with compression of the audio for a UA-cam video that messed it up. Not sure.
Another great review! When I do testing of the SM7B v RE20 in an untreated room with a radio playing in the adjacent room with the door closed the RE20 picks it up and the SM7B didn’t. And that was with CL on to add some gain for the SM7B. So that was kind of different than your experience of the background noise rejection you did. I luv these reviews!
The M201 is great. First, upon switching from the RE20 it appears kind of muffled but then I hear those warm smooth mids, so nice and pleasing! And the top end is still there. Also great form-factor. Guess it doesn't get the love it deserves just because of that utilitarian, 'non-broadcastey' look :) By the way, love these re-reviews of yours and your newer, upgraded testing protocol! Your channel just gets better and better constantly! Thank you Bandrew!
Thanks for another great review! Do you think the new SE Dynacaster would be able to give the SM7B a run for its money? I‘m only waiting for your review before buying. No pressure though. 😉 Do you have that mic’s review in the pipeline?
I recently tested about 7 different Mics to see which one I wanted to upgrade to for podcasting. This was a super close second out of that lineup. The Ethos ended up being my first choice.
the RE-20 in my opinion, sounds the most rounded of all the ones tested (also worth noting, you can make them sound a bit like the others by adjusting mid and highs on your console or computer) - but this RE-20 I really think, gives you a great base-line sound with the most natural flat response. Having this flat response is important in studio work because you get THE SOUND without coloration from the start and can work from there (if need be... personally I think it sounds great flat with no adjustments in highs, mid or lows in post processing). Thanks for the review, Podcastage man!!
I prefer the RE320 and the Rode Procaster over the Re20. The 20 just sounds dark and almost muddy. The 27 was so intensely bright, in a good way, but maybe not for broadcast. I learn from your reviews every single time.
yes it does. If the output level is extremely important to you then that may mean the 27N/D is the mic that you want. I think the sound of the RE20 is significanlty better than the 27N/D. However, that's my preference and it's why I include the sound samples, so you can hear the mics and agree or disagree with me. Have a great day.
hi bandrew was excited for this review since i heard you were doing it on the podcast, i was wondering if you would mind considering to review the bheringer c2s there aren't that many thourough reviews of them
Hi Man, I am stuck in a tough decision. I have TLM 102 and I am on the verge of splurging $400 to buy AKG C214. Do you recommend I buy it or save the money? Please help. I want to improve my channel.
I think what's great about the RE20 ( coming from a mid lover ) is how well it takes EQ. It's easy to use a nice EQ and push those mids back up to punch through vs trying to scoop the mud out of the SM7B.
Exactly why the newer Re27 shines because of these complaints. They took a great kick drum design in the RE 20 mic and made a great vocal mic out of it with the RE 27. Listen to yourself on it and you’ll hear a difference. It has that mid range presence that you’re looking for without having to dork with external EQ.
You did indeed subverted my expectation there (just like Rian Johnson 👀)! But, unlike Johnson's, your video was great!!! Thanks for this comparison (waited a long time for it)!
My favorite of them all was the ORIGINAL RE20, which sounds significantly brighter and clearer than the new one. I have a 1970's-vintage RE20 that I rescued from a trash can (it just needed new foam) and have used extensively. Mine sounds great on anything I put in front of it! 2nd choice would be the SM7b, which I use with a Cloudlifter.
I was hoping you'd throw in the KSM8, which I personally like quite a bit and which embodies a competing approach to variable-D for taming proximity effect in a dynamic mic.
RE320 with very small eq is always the winner for me in these comparisons. I find the SM7B works fine as seemingly intended, recording singing for demos in untreated spaces, but otherwise I dislike its stuffy weird sound especially on spoken voice. RE20 suits some voices ok but has a wispy+boomy problem. RE320 avoids all the weakness of both competitors for me.
I don´t agree with you, I had RE320 and SM7B and I ended up with the SM7B for me, it has better sound rejection, it doesn´t need much eq tweaking, it doesn´t need de-esser like RE320 does need and it doesn´t need spend extra money for shockmount. Not saying that the RE320 sounded bad on my voice, just was not to my taste. If you process the SM7B with good compressor you doesn´t need anything for it, it has nice warm sound. You can check my review on both on my channel
Love this mic, and you’re dead on that it’s the only real contender vs SM7B. Pros to RE20, in my experience it’s less susceptible to interference vs. SM7B and also the variable D is a real benefit for some talent. Pros to SM7B, it will always be closer to natural reproduction of voice, though the RE20 eq curve is very pleasing. But dude that behringer holds up, am I right???
I wanted a great mic made in the USA so I got this and the Heil PR40. Appreciate your anthem.I got my black RE20 a month ago.,love it ,even though it stretched my budget. Pretty sure I have a lisp but I use it off axis to be syllabent safe. No buyers remorse especially with a @podcastage thumbs up.What an unexpected treat.
As a general comment, and as a programmer, who cares about keyboard noise coming into microphone, it is a very unpleasant experience that in many reviews the lowest sound of keyboard typing is followed immediately by loud amplified electric guitar rock music. The sound transfer is so harsh and fast. It would be better if the first instrument was the acoustic guitar, because it’s not as loud as harsh, or anything else that would not put such a low volume event next to a higher volume event.
I must add that you’re a great reviewer, top-notch. That is the only critique I have, and it’s quite a big deal to me when I was looking through lots of reviews comparing keyboard noise
Had the Sm7b, now torn between the RE20 and Rode Broadcaster. Leaning towards RE20 as it will sound better in more locations without having to be right up on the mic.
Just bought the SM7B about a week ago and I freakin love it! I think it’s safe to say the RE20 and SM7B are the two best dynamic mics on the market today, and they both sound amazing. I’ll be honest though, I’m just a sucker for the warmth and body of the SM7B 😂
Can you please use more bass guitar in your music tests, I am new to your channel so I may be incorrect in my assumption that you never test with the bass, but from what I've seen you don't.
Wow the u87 and the re20 are actually the closest sounding. It sounds like you could put 1db shelf somewhere up top and a slight cut around 250hz to get it even closer.
I've used the (original) RE20 most of my life for kick drum, bass cabinets and almost everything, even vocals. I've not tried any of the latest versions but I'm a true believer in this mic, its never let me down. Also, almost every radio station and tv studios I've been in has had one right there in use.
It's so great that even after 50 years the only substantial improvement they can make is color it black. I love my RE20 so much.
The black RE20 with the EV shockmount is probably the coolest-looking microphone as far as I'm concerned
@@RainbowCornet I kind of like the original gray, it’s like something that came out of a military battleship or something.
@@phototristan it definitely has a cool industrial look when put in the right setting
In their defense, if it is even a defense rather than a compliment to how amazing of a mic it is that it doesn't need an improvement, the black finish is BEAUTIFUL. The paint job is just stunning.
At the CBC we used the RE20's for most of our booth microphones. A great sounding voice mic that sound great on most voices.
RE20 > SM7b.
Change my mind.
In all seriousness, love to see my baby get a re-review after all this time. While I also love my SM7b, the RE20 for me will always hold sentimental value for me seeing that it was my first and so far still my favorite dynamic vocal microphone.
For speech, I totally agree, especially for podcasts and streaming and other situations where the speaker won’t be staying the same proximity from the mic. Variable-D is amazing, and this should be the podcasting/streaming standard that the SM7B has somehow become.
For music, the SM7B is more versatile and works in virtually any application, whereas the RE20 works best with the human voice and other midrange-y sources. That makes the SM7B my desert-island mic, but if I ever have the money I’ll own both 😋
Depends on your voice. If you have a rich lower mid with a bunch of weird bullshit up top, the SM7b is a lot better. That said, the RE20 has richer mids than most of its competitors, and sounds pretty great.
I agree, when it comes to look in particular no match. I personally own a rode procaster. Never loved the looks of the sm7b. Even the sound quality is not much better.
@@jkf9167 I have a bass-baritone voice, lots of strong lows.
Would the SM7B be better for me or the RE20?
I already got the SM7B, but perhaps will consider a switch.
@@gaborkiss1425 I have a similar voice and nothing treats it as nicely as the SM7b in my experience.
I became a radio DJ at a radio station in Hungary almost 20 years ago, where RE20 was in every studio. The owner spent a lot of time in America on rural, local radios, so he chose this one. Then when I switched to another radio station, there were Shure SM7Bs. I mean, everywhere, in every studio. The chief technical buddy studied his profession at urban American radios. This guy there called the RE20 fans loser with stick ears and fool. (Just like the owner of the previous radio called SM7B fans fool.) And that’s when I realized it's like an AMD-Intel, Canon-Nikon, Coca-Pepsi, Android-iOS, etc duel.
But that was two decades ago. Today, is RE20 more common in a country radio and SM7B more common in an urban station? Is this still the case today in the U.S.?
I don't think there's any trend. Tons of stations have RE's, tons have Sure's, tons have both, and tons use condensers.
Here in the Philippines big radio stations use both the RE20 and the SM7b as well.
Ricsi! Sztem az RE-20 a világ legjobb studó mikrofonja egy Cloud Lifterrel (25 db) egy Focusrite Solo-val (53db) megspékelve.
@@Mediaright lol there definitely are trends even with mics. Shure sm7b has become ultra popular just because everyone copies each other. 95% of content creators use the mic such wrong way that it kills me
The RE20 is a winner for me, mostly because the Shure mic doesn’t negate the proximity effect, so it sounds like the sound can easily be bouncing up and down by slightly leaning closer into the mic and not stay consistent like the RE20
Now I've reduced my body size from 6 foot 6 inches to100 nanometers so I can slip past the very firm metal mesh grill and stand in front of the capsule to show the proximity effect and this is how it sounds
This was my dream mic and I finally saved up enough and bought it last year. I couldn't be happier. I love this mic!
Lol awesome USA 🇺🇸 made.... Kinda lol
Regarding the shock mount observation. When I first got this mic I had it mounted on a Rode boom arm, with no shock mount, attached to my desk using a clamp. Whenever I would start typing on my (cherry) mechanical keyboard I was SHOCKED by how loud the sound was. I was literally looking into buying a new keyboard because it was making it very hard to hear my voice if I needed to type while streaming. But, lucky for me, one day I accidentally like, I dunno, breathed on the boom arm? And noticed that any vibration that hit the boom arm went straight into the mic. So I bought the shock mount and suddenly the keys from my keyboard where in the audible range I was expecting (still there, but ASMR style, not HEY YOU LISTEN TO ME style). No problems at all!
Moral: ohmygodgettheshockmountoryouwillhateyourlife
but….love this mic, probably my favorite mic I’ve ever had, highly recommend.
Love these re reviews. Would really like to see one for the Samson Q2u. It's my go-to recommendation for most people who need an affordable mic, but I'm curious if there are other compelling options now.
I recommend the Q2U for a starter mic also!
If it's good enough for Dr. Frasier Crane, it's good enough for me!
And Roz !
Earthworks Ethos is the best sounding among the broadcasting class of mics
sm7b didnt soudn too good on my female voice- the re20 is a gem and I love it so much!
Really glad to hear you’ve found the mic that works best for your voice.
The RE20 is really in a class of its own
The SM7B gives you a full sound to work with but the RE20’s profile records how I would usually EQ a vocal. As the saying goes, record it properly and the mix takes care of itself.
EV RE20 sounds better than Shure SM7B. RE20 sounds deeper and clearer on higher frequencies compared to sm7b.
RE20 and Ethos are a close fight! Ethos and U87 AI also very close with U87 a little smoother!
re20 has served me well over 5 years. is still my favorite dynamic since then. prefer it much more than the sm7b as the mount is much more convenient, its sturdier, and has a more clear and pronounced profile. It also requires less gain which I find nice as I no longer needed a fethead
This mic provides absolutely the sexiest voice of any other microphone on the market.
You crack me up, brah. I am a RE20 fanboi, and your review offered no cure. Mine is snuggled in a Rycote InVision USM shock mount at the end of a O.C. White Co. Ultima mic arm, and I'm confident it'll stand up to your annoying tapping. Listening to the comparisons, I thought that the Earthworks ETHOS sounded like butter. If I could only have one and cost was not a factor, that's the one I'd pick. In fact I did pick it. Now I'm always conflicted about which gain knob to twist as I keep both cabled-up and plugged in. This is all your fault, Bandrew. I thank you all the time.
I am sorry to be contributing to the problem. As long as it’s not financially detrimental, then I’m only mostly sorry. Haha.
@@Podcastage No debt incurred, so keep up the great work.
Damn. The RE20 sounds closer to a condenser, better detail, fuller, than an SM7B. You’re right about the great top end.
Damn. I own the SM7B, not the RE20.
I purchased the RE-20 because after listening to many many reviews and comparisons, to me it demonstrated the closest sound to a U87 I could find in a dynamic (which I desired due to the excellent rejection). Your review and comparison reaffirms this. :)
To me the RE-20 sounds like a fantastic Mic. I prefer it to the sm7b.
SE Electronics V7 amazes me every time.
I have 4 DynaCasters (based on the V7) in my podcast studio and absolutely love them!
The Ethos sounded fabulous!!!
My favorite mic of all time. Had no idea the company was right down the road from me.
Francis Scott Key about to get some of that ad revenue...
UA-cam Sound Library coming in clutch for that music.
Very tempted to purchase the RE20. It definitely seems to be a happy medium. Nice low end and no excessive brightness
You look beautiful with these mustaches
As a RE320 owner I am very pleased with what it offers. If I were in for a second mic the RE20 (black) would be my 1st choice.
Why? You can just eq the 320 to get the same exact sound as the RE20
EV RE20 just have more spark and life, like it show dynamics whereas I think the SM7B it a bit more dull and monotonous in it's tone which make it great for bedtime stories where you want someone to sleep.
Btw what third party shock mount would work with the EV RE20 since the original one is a bit too pricey?
Keeping us on our toes! Appreciate the extra bits of entertainment inserted into an otherwise serious evaluation - the style keeps this viewer engaged. Keep it up!
I just bought my RE 20 and I run it through the RodeCaster Pro. I’m extremely impressed with its build and overall performance. Couldn’t be happier with my decision to buy it. Hint: look for package deals. I got the shock mount and a 20’ XLR cable for an extra $25 ($475 total)
i think the procaster was on pair with it, but the RE20 low end is just so full and right!
I loved the Procaster, specially the off axis of it, but I craved that low end that the 20 offered.
The SM7B has major problems with vocal fry type voices because its very dry and neutral as a dynamic. Iv seen way to many people get bad results from the SM7B because of this. I hate that its become the standard for streaming because its very expensive for what you get and a cheaper condenser microphone will get you much better results with spoken word. Im sure the SM7B has its place in radio and music recording, but the trophy has to go to the RE20 in the regard for streaming and spoken word. You cant beat the open warmth of the mic. Its almost like a condenser with a slight dynamic color added.
I just sold my RE20, in November. I ended up going back to the sm7b, i like the proximity effect of the shure, but i do miss the re20 now and then. Great re-review :)
I still love the SM7b. And although I do enjoy the RE20, I still find myself gravitating back to the SM7b due to the smoothness it has on my voice.
Love the video, keep it up man! Also i think we need a re review of the SE V7 pleasee!
I love that Andrew is slowly becoming more and more unhinged (in a good way) in these videos
BLACK!?!?! COOL!!!!! I have the normal color RE20 ...
re-review procaster? :D
Thank you for doing this review and comparison again. I was hoping you'd compare the RE20 with the Audio Technica BP 40. I think that's a really good mic and is comparable to the RE 20. I own both and love both but am interested in your opinion and those of your subscribers
I bought one...finally. Oh God do I love this thing it's everything that everybody says it is.
RE20 sounds amazing. But those Earthworks mics makes me drool!
Lol true
Bandrew? More like Candrew. Keep following your inner nerd. That nerd knows the way..
Bandrew, I want to thank you for your dedication and detailed reviews on products like this. This video helped me on my mic exploration journey and I decided to grab this EV RE20 in that handsome matte charcoal. It's been over a year & I am super happy with it! Don't think I will need another mic for a long time, I have adopted the philosophy that you have said so many times that it's all about Quality over Quantity if you can afford it. Keep up the great work man.. I'm also loving all of the Clipcastage Clips sir...... Just thought I'd let ya know that I appreeeeeyahhhh!
Take Care,
KJP
Thank you so much for the support and the kind words. I’m thrilled the video helped you make the right choice so you can buy it once and buy it right and get on with the production of great sounding content. Keep it up KJP! Thanks again.
Still an SM7b fan. I do like the $700 Earthworks Ethos condenser, though.
This guy crack's me up😅😅🤣🤣😤😂funny man👉💯👍
Hi, Poddcastage. Do you notice any difference at all between the RE-20 black or the classic color version in the tone of the mic, etc. ? I'm just curious if you notice anything at all or are they identical sounding ?- thanks in advance. also any personal preference of exterior look (black vs the classic color)?
They should be identical. If there is any difference in this video I'm not sure if that's due to a manufacturing difference between black and beige, or if it's the fact that they were produced 7 years apart and there are minor fluctuations in manufacturing over 7 years. Also 7 years of use means 7 years of foam degradation that will affect the original one that I was using.
I'm sure that if you bought either color nowadays they would sound as close to identical as two mics of the same model that are not a matched pair can. The color choice would be 100% down to your personal preference. I PERSONALLY like the old beige, but also appreciate the matte black.
yep, I was kinda afraid you were going to say that last statement... I outfitted my podcast studio with 4 of these in.... BLACK (uh oh?). .. I had one of these RE20's in the baige color when I was around 17 years old playing radio back in the day when one need 2 of everything to mix between stuff unless you wanted "dead air" .. for example, I had 2 cd players so after a song is over, I could overlap just before the song would start studio fading out into the other song (from cd player #2).. same with my "fake" commercial spots.. I'd have 2 cassette decks and each cassette would have a few commercials (i'd set my mixer into cue mode and cue up the next spot quickly before the other one was over so I could overlap at the tail out music bed / end of commercial spot.. you get the picture.. anyway, sorry for the long story.. just the idea is that a guy who hired me to play drums, a keyboard / singer, convinced me to even trade to his EV RE-27 N/D if I gave him my RE-20 so after doing some homework on the jump in price, i figured it was a better mic.. it was definitely hotter than the RE-20 and honestly I liked it after rolling off the high end toggle switch. So thre you have it.. If I had to purchase again, I'd go with the old school color of the RE-20. The black finish to me looks like these mics were in a fire lol. okay thanks for reading my long winded text / response 🙃@@Podcastage
I personally love the looks of the ev mics and also the rode procaster (which I have). Don't know why most people prefer the looks of the Shure SM7b with its little tail dangling out, i mean the xlr connection looks unprofessional. Also the foam pop filter doesn't look as reliable since it is not protected by a hard mesh outside.
RE320 sounds better to me. more mids with good lows. To much bass on the RE20 to me. Even the Shure and Beyerdynamics sounds with more mids.
RE20 sounds a lot clearer for me vs SM7B. SM7B sounds too bassy and congested. I think people overdo the bass + proximity effect on most pods/radio but I also get most speakers it goes through are tinny and low bass in comparison to my setup so it probably is overemphasised for me vs average listener. I'm 100% in the RE20 camp. Having said that what I found funny was how in the treated room with a decent interface the behringer sounds so close lol. Could probably save money with some EQ and behringers vs using the expensive ones.
RE20 clear winner. But the sleeper in all these videos is the Procaster. That microphone needs more love.
This is the best dynamic mic on the market.
RE20 is amazing, but their mount is horrible and expensive. It keeps getting loose and multiple times I was about to drop it, so I modified it. Either my unit is faulty or I'm doing something wrong but still is expensive anyways
love your "Podcastage" and i really think you sound great on Earthworks Ethos ✌🏾
@podcastage... Hi podcastage .
have i win Manley Reference Cardioid Mic ? 🎤
Oh brother, I thought the RE320 would be similar enough. I thought wrong. The more I use the SM7B the more I love it. I'm so glad your last video inspired me to give it another try. My wonder is if you can put the RE20 farther back from your voice (physical distance) and get a richer sound than the SM7B (on balance)? Or are they the same. That's another thing I'd love to see added to your videos. What you believe is the optimum distance from each mic, or a range. 4 fingers for both? My questions pertain to using it on a desk for UA-cam narrations.
RE 20 is way more tolerant of variations in distance and angle. I have one and one of my podcast desks. I love it. And for singing too.
@@christopherjames3762 Thanks for input! If I start singing Electro-Voice would send someone to take the mic away and my wife would pay $100 for them to take me away with it ;)
Compared to most of the comparison mics, the RE20 sounds like it's wearing an N95 mask. It's not muted in the highs or presence, it's the high _mids_ that are conspicuously absent (imho). To me it doesn't sound like a music mic _at all,_ it's broadcast/spoken word all the way.
I appreciate this video. For your voice, the RE20 is very good compliment. The Earthworks series are also impressive too, I'd say they're more neutral. The RE20 has defined tone that's pretty apparent and the RE20 is livelier than the SM7b. I've always found the SM7b requires a bit of finessing. I've been debating adding one to my roster for years now. It might be the day.
That "stash" definitely needs / needed to go!....... like yesterday.
Now I'm about 78.5 miles away from the microphone and this is how it sounds...
Good job subverting expectations 😂sadly the default mount is the weakest link in the package, though if you get the Electro voice shockmount it's big and metal enough to defend your studio with on its own.
I managed to pick a used RE27N/D up and with the distinct addition of more top end it has become my favorite mic very very quickly.
Just comparing my own SM7b to my RE27 - I prefer the RE27 for my voice, and for spoken word in general for many voices. The SM7b isn't diminished by this though, it's a wonderful mic that still has more than enough utility for voice or for many other recording needs.
And - much like the Jacob Collier video - every mic is a paintbrush. Each voice and each recording may need a different pigment and any preferred mic has a place in the locker.
I liked the re20 and earthworks ethos best for your voice. Very hard to pick!
I absolutely adore the look of this mic in Black.
I have to say, apart from the U87ai, Earthworks duo were mega impressive. I might need to get one to see what the fuss is all about
I might be crazy, but I thought your new RE20 sounded just a little richer than your old one. I bought a used RE20, and it's a bit boomy, even with the high pass filter engaged. I was going to send it in for repair but EV wants $315 for refurbishment. I'd rather buy a new one and get the 3-year warranty. I wonder if you noticed a slight improvement in your new RE20? Or is it just the great new black patina?
Thanks for the video. It's weird that when you're going through the RE20 and other mics that the sound from the RE20 has a harshness in the upper mids and high frequencies where mics like the SM58 just sound better and smoother. I'm listening through an audio interface and Shure SRH840 headphones and the upper-mid frequencies coming off the RE20 just make it sound like trash. Maybe it works for people listening on earpods or something. I know this is a good mic so it's weird to hear it like this. Possibly something with compression of the audio for a UA-cam video that messed it up. Not sure.
Trash? Really? 😂
1:55 I'm Canadian, but I still felt like I had to stand up.
o7
Another great review! When I do testing of the SM7B v RE20 in an untreated room with a radio playing in the adjacent room with the door closed the RE20 picks it up and the SM7B didn’t. And that was with CL on to add some gain for the SM7B. So that was kind of different than your experience of the background noise rejection you did. I luv these reviews!
The M201 is great. First, upon switching from the RE20 it appears kind of muffled but then I hear those warm smooth mids, so nice and pleasing! And the top end is still there. Also great form-factor. Guess it doesn't get the love it deserves just because of that utilitarian, 'non-broadcastey' look :) By the way, love these re-reviews of yours and your newer, upgraded testing protocol! Your channel just gets better and better constantly! Thank you Bandrew!
Thanks for another great review! Do you think the new SE Dynacaster would be able to give the SM7B a run for its money? I‘m only waiting for your review before buying. No pressure though. 😉 Do you have that mic’s review in the pipeline?
I will be reviewing it when I get my hands on it.
@@Podcastage Can‘t wait, looking forward to it! Keep up the great work, loving the podcast too. 👍
I recently tested about 7 different Mics to see which one I wanted to upgrade to for podcasting. This was a super close second out of that lineup. The Ethos ended up being my first choice.
I almost kept the RE 20 AND the Ethos, but decided not to hit my budget quite that hard.
I love the Ethos as well, but I think I am going to buy the Icon as I like it a bit more.
the RE-20 in my opinion, sounds the most rounded of all the ones tested (also worth noting, you can make them sound a bit like the others by adjusting mid and highs on your console or computer) - but this RE-20 I really think, gives you a great base-line sound with the most natural flat response. Having this flat response is important in studio work because you get THE SOUND without coloration from the start and can work from there (if need be... personally I think it sounds great flat with no adjustments in highs, mid or lows in post processing). Thanks for the review, Podcastage man!!
lol he never answers my comments ;)
nope, he really doesn't !
.... and no lol
I prefer the RE320 and the Rode Procaster over the Re20. The 20 just sounds dark and almost muddy. The 27 was so intensely bright, in a good way, but maybe not for broadcast. I learn from your reviews every single time.
LOVE THIS MIC! RE20 is a classic.
RE20 is good, but 27 N\D has hotter signal
yes it does. If the output level is extremely important to you then that may mean the 27N/D is the mic that you want. I think the sound of the RE20 is significanlty better than the 27N/D. However, that's my preference and it's why I include the sound samples, so you can hear the mics and agree or disagree with me. Have a great day.
@@Podcastage thanks! Would you be so kind to explain the difference by words if it's possible?
Both are great, I prefer the RE20 myself but I have them both and either one does the job~
Another great comparison review. Having a sibilence obsession I would go with the RE20 which seems to be the only one that doesn't have it.
hi bandrew was excited for this review since i heard you were doing it on the podcast, i was wondering if you would mind considering to review the bheringer c2s there aren't that many thourough reviews of them
Hi Man, I am stuck in a tough decision. I have TLM 102 and I am on the verge of splurging $400 to buy AKG C214. Do you recommend I buy it or save the money? Please help. I want to improve my channel.
I love the RE20, but there's something about the 320 that I prefer for some reason.
I think what's great about the RE20 ( coming from a mid lover ) is how well it takes EQ. It's easy to use a nice EQ and push those mids back up to punch through vs trying to scoop the mud out of the SM7B.
Exactly why the newer Re27 shines because of these complaints. They took a great kick drum design in the RE 20 mic and made a great vocal mic out of it with the RE 27. Listen to yourself on it and you’ll hear a difference. It has that mid range presence that you’re looking for without having to dork with external EQ.
You did indeed subverted my expectation there (just like Rian Johnson 👀)!
But, unlike Johnson's, your video was great!!! Thanks for this comparison (waited a long time for it)!
The only dynamic mic that sounds great on my voice out of the box!
@podcastage... Piss off, scammer.
My favorite of them all was the ORIGINAL RE20, which sounds significantly brighter and clearer than the new one. I have a 1970's-vintage RE20 that I rescued from a trash can (it just needed new foam) and have used extensively. Mine sounds great on anything I put in front of it! 2nd choice would be the SM7b, which I use with a Cloudlifter.
I was hoping you'd throw in the KSM8, which I personally like quite a bit and which embodies a competing approach to variable-D for taming proximity effect in a dynamic mic.
RE320 with very small eq is always the winner for me in these comparisons. I find the SM7B works fine as seemingly intended, recording singing for demos in untreated spaces, but otherwise I dislike its stuffy weird sound especially on spoken voice. RE20 suits some voices ok but has a wispy+boomy problem. RE320 avoids all the weakness of both competitors for me.
I don´t agree with you, I had RE320 and SM7B and I ended up with the SM7B for me, it has better sound rejection, it doesn´t need much eq tweaking, it doesn´t need de-esser like RE320 does need and it doesn´t need spend extra money for shockmount. Not saying that the RE320 sounded bad on my voice, just was not to my taste. If you process the SM7B with good compressor you doesn´t need anything for it, it has nice warm sound. You can check my review on both on my channel
Love this mic, and you’re dead on that it’s the only real contender vs SM7B. Pros to RE20, in my experience it’s less susceptible to interference vs. SM7B and also the variable D is a real benefit for some talent. Pros to SM7B, it will always be closer to natural reproduction of voice, though the RE20 eq curve is very pleasing. But dude that behringer holds up, am I right???
I wanted a great mic made in the USA so I got this and the Heil PR40. Appreciate your anthem.I got my black RE20 a month ago.,love it ,even though it stretched my budget. Pretty sure I have a lisp but I use it off axis to be syllabent safe. No buyers remorse especially with a @podcastage thumbs up.What an unexpected treat.
I just ordered one from Sweetwater. It says ‘Made in Mexico’ and ‘imported by Bosch’ on the box. 😢
yay military industrial complex! USA! USA!
As a general comment, and as a programmer, who cares about keyboard noise coming into microphone, it is a very unpleasant experience that in many reviews the lowest sound of keyboard typing is followed immediately by loud amplified electric guitar rock music. The sound transfer is so harsh and fast. It would be better if the first instrument was the acoustic guitar, because it’s not as loud as harsh, or anything else that would not put such a low volume event next to a higher volume event.
I must add that you’re a great reviewer, top-notch. That is the only critique I have, and it’s quite a big deal to me when I was looking through lots of reviews comparing keyboard noise
RE20 and Rode Procaster were my favorites.
Had the Sm7b, now torn between the RE20 and Rode Broadcaster. Leaning towards RE20 as it will sound better in more locations without having to be right up on the mic.
Just bought the SM7B about a week ago and I freakin love it! I think it’s safe to say the RE20 and SM7B are the two best dynamic mics on the market today, and they both sound amazing. I’ll be honest though, I’m just a sucker for the warmth and body of the SM7B 😂
Literally this. They're both incredible mics ... but I, at least, prefer the sound/tone from the Shure.
Can you please use more bass guitar in your music tests, I am new to your channel so I may be incorrect in my assumption that you never test with the bass, but from what I've seen you don't.
Wow the u87 and the re20 are actually the closest sounding. It sounds like you could put 1db shelf somewhere up top and a slight cut around 250hz to get it even closer.
I noticed that aswell!, u87 might be a little smoother in the high end but they felt the same to me, which is really interesting…
A year later, listening and still think they sound pretty identical. Crazy how that is.
I've used the (original) RE20 most of my life for kick drum, bass cabinets and almost everything, even vocals. I've not tried any of the latest versions but I'm a true believer in this mic, its never let me down. Also, almost every radio station and tv studios I've been in has had one right there in use.
I honestly think the SM7B sounds terrible, I have no idea why it is the most popular mic for voice.
You get a 👍🏻 for the intro alone.
Man the way you get rid of the reverb is too much. This get quickly ear fatigue. Nice channel
I love the RE20 and the rode procaster
Digging that Earthworks icon though!