Choosing the right microphone for your podcast can significantly impact the quality of your audio and your audience's experience.
But what is the right microphone?
For thousands of broadcasters, it’s one of two mics—the Electro-Voice RE20 or Shure SM7B. If you step into any radio studio, this is what you’ll see. Both are popular with many high-profile podcasters as well.
Is one of these mics right for you? Here’s some info to help you decide ...
How to Choose the Right Microphone
Sound quality, versatility, build quality, and price are all important factors to consider when purchasing any piece of podcasting equipment. I also look at reliability as you don’t want to have your equipment fail during an important interview and miss capturing a moment in time.
Both the Electro-Voice RE20 and Shure SM7B have all of these elements.
Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a legendary dynamic microphone that’s been a staple in the broadcasting world since 1968. It delivers a smooth, natural sound that’s perfect for voice work, making it a favorite among podcasters and radio hosts alike.
Whether you're recording a podcast, narrating an audiobook, or just want to sound great during your live streams, this mic has got you covered. It’s built like a tank, so you can trust it to perform well in any setting, from your home studio to a professional broadcasting environment. If you're serious about sound quality, the RE20 is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Users rave about the RE20's sound quality and versatility. Many have noted how it excels in capturing vocals, making it a top choice for podcasters and musicians alike. The durability and classic design also get high marks, ensuring it stands the test of time in any studio.
“I love this mic because of its versatility. It captures lower frequencies beautifully, making it perfect for vocals. It’s a workhorse that can handle anything you throw at it, and the sound quality is miles ahead of cheaper options.” - Jason E. Zamora
“This mic has been a staple for pro broadcasting since 1968. The fullness and clarity are fantastic, and it has a really nice midrange frequency. I prefer it over my vintage Rode NT1 for my podcasting needs.” - Kookooaju
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with a natural tone
- Durable and built to last
- Great for various recording applications
Cons:
- Can be heavy and requires a sturdy mic stand
- May need additional gain for optimal performance
Why You'll Love the RE20
- Professional quality sound for podcasts and broadcasting
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Versatile for various recording situations
Perfect for Any Podcasting Situation
The RE20 shines in both casual and professional settings. Whether you're recording a podcast at home or broadcasting live on air, this mic adapts beautifully to your needs. Its ability to handle close-up vocals without distortion makes it ideal for intimate recordings.
Current Price: $449.00
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 205+)
Shure SM7B Microphone
The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone that has become a go-to choice for podcasters, broadcasters, and musicians alike. For example, Michael Jackson used it to record the vocals for his Thriller album.
Known for its smooth, flat frequency response, it excels in capturing vocals with clarity and warmth. Whether you're recording a podcast, streaming live, or laying down music tracks in the studio, this mic delivers professional-grade sound. Its rugged construction means it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable companion for any audio project.
If you're serious about your sound, the SM7B is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Users consistently praise the SM7B for its incredible sound quality and versatility. Many have highlighted how it captures vocals beautifully, making it a favorite among podcasters and musicians. Its robust build also earns high marks, ensuring it can handle the demands of any studio environment.
“I don't care if you're just starting out or you're a seasoned influencer or podcaster, the sound quality from this mic is AMAZING. No fiddling. No volume adjusting. Just pure, rock-solid audio of my voice that blew me away.” - Kevin Sinclair
“The SM7B is an outstanding choice for anyone serious about audio quality. With its integrated preamp, this microphone provides a substantial gain boost, simplifying even the most complex setups. The clarity and warmth it delivers are exceptional.” - Joshua
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rich and natural sound reproduction
- Built to last with rugged construction
- Great for both home studios and professional settings
Cons:
- Requires a good preamp for optimal performance
- Can be heavy, needing a sturdy mic stand
Why You'll Love the SM7B
- Exceptional sound quality for vocals and instruments
- Durable design for long-lasting performance
- Versatile for various recording applications
Perfect for Any Occasion
The SM7B shines in both casual and professional settings. Whether you're recording a podcast at home or broadcasting live, this mic adapts beautifully to your needs. Its ability to handle close-up vocals without distortion makes it ideal for intimate recordings.
Current Price: $399.00
Rating: 4.8 (Total: 11,756+)
FAQ
Which microphone is better for podcasting, the Electro-Voice RE20 or the Shure SM7B?
Choosing between the Electro-Voice RE20 and the Shure SM7B really depends on your specific needs and preferences. The RE20 is known for its flat frequency response and is great for capturing a natural sound, making it ideal for voice work in untreated rooms. On the other hand, the SM7B is praised for its warmth and ability to handle sibilance well, which can be beneficial if you have a voice that tends to be sharp.
If you want a microphone that excels in versatility and can also handle instruments, the RE20 might be your pick. However, if you’re looking for a mic that’s more forgiving in less-than-ideal acoustic environments, the SM7B could be the better choice.
Do I need additional equipment to use the RE20 or SM7B effectively?
Yes, both microphones typically require additional gain to perform at their best. The RE20 is gain-hungry, so you might want to consider using a quality preamp or a device like a Cloudlifter to boost the signal. The SM7B also benefits from a good preamp, especially since it doesn't require phantom power but does need at least 60dB of gain for optimal performance. Investing in a solid audio interface or preamp will enhance your recording quality significantly, so it's worth considering these additions when you make your purchase.
What are some practical tips for using the RE20 or SM7B for podcasting?
When using either microphone, positioning is key. For the RE20, keep it close to your mouth to capture the best sound, as it has a unidirectional polar pattern that picks up sound primarily from the front. With the SM7B, you can use the included windscreens to reduce plosives and improve clarity. Make sure to use a sturdy mic stand, as both microphones are relatively heavy. Lastly, always test your setup before recording to ensure you're getting the best sound possible, and don’t hesitate to adjust your gain settings based on your voice and the environment.
Wrapping Up
In summary, both the Electro-Voice RE20 and Shure SM7B are excellent choices for podcasting, each with its unique advantages. The SM7B is known for its warm sound and versatility, making it a favorite among many podcasters. The RE20 offers a rich, natural sound that excels in various recording situations.
Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that you invest in a microphone that enhances your podcasting experience.
Personally, I prefer (and use) the RE20. This is likely due to it simply being in use in a studio I worked out of for a number of years. Like a Southerner picking Ford or Chevy as his truck brand of choice, I think a lot of podcasters’ loyalty to either RE20 or SM7B is similar.
Bottom line—try both with your voice and pick the one you feel sounds best.
