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At age 72, I'm a bit of an outlier in this conversation, to say the least. I began a very brief radio career in 1966 using the old RCA 44-BX ribbon mic. Radio didn't work out, so I practiced medicine for 44 years but now am back in voice production with podcasting. Of course, a lot changed over those years. After working my way through several mics (including the SM7B) I ultimately settled on the RE-20, for most of the reasons you listed. Thanks very much for validating my choice. It's nice to feel in sync with younger, clearer thinkers than my contemporaries. 🤣
That's awesome. I got started 17 years ago recording 'liguaphone dialogues' on the side for beer money. Covid19 persuaded me to get my old XLRs out of the cupboard and do some podcasting. Like you I forgot how much I missed it.
Yeah, the RE-20 is a great microphone. IMO, it's one of the best dynamic microphones out there. It's great with vocals, and music producers really love it on kick drums.
If you liked the RCA back in the day you should try one of the modern ribbons like the Royers, Samars (I'm partial to the VL37), or the Rode NTR. They still have the openness and smoothness of the classics, but modern materials have enabled much lighter and thinner ribbon motors with vastly better high-frequency response. I use a Samar VL373A for Blumlein and Mid-Side stereo recordings.
I just purchased the SM7B a week ago for voiceover and had to do spend a significant amount of time EQ tweaking to get it sounding balanced. Before I even watched this vid I had already made up my mind to return the sure and purchase the RE20.
I used the SM7B for years, and preferred it over the RE20... until I picked up the RE320. Now the SM7B sits in the drawer and the 320 is on my desk! I just like it better for my own voice.
SM7b is the safer mic. Build in shockmount, easy to setup, better resistant against electrical noises, clean and not too in the way looks wise. Especially if you have guests, it feels more safer, less scary to manipulate. That is pretty damn huge when you get people on the podcast who hasn't done that ever. I don't think the SM7b is a bandwagon thing at all. Especially now that a lot of podcasts are doing filming as well. It is not a bad mic. It's a different mic. Neither sound better or worse to me. Just different mic for different situations. There is a reason why both mics are one of the most used (dynamic) broadcast mics. Hell, I'd vouch for an RE20 as host mic and SM7b as guest mic. Having mic separation can be a great tool for larger sized podcasts in terms of people doing the podcast.
The RE20 sounds like the vintage SM7 before they cut the high end and trapped the lows. It makes sense to own both. SM7B for guitar cabs and chorus backup. RE20 for lead vocals anything acoustic including kick drum and drum overhead. I like the RE20 for vocals a lot and speeds up editing because you don't have to chase that upper-end clarity as mentioned here. One thing to try is to record a vocal on both mics simultaneously and let the SM7B represent low-mid "backup" vocal and have the RE-20 act as the "lead" vocal. That combo comes together as you play with phasing and can create some gorgeous vocal depth.
Both great mics. I have tried both and kept the RE20. It's a better match for my voice. The Shure is a wonderful mic as well. Depends on the voice pumping thru it.
Been binging a lot of these RE20 comparison videos today and am starting to discern the differences. In the singing test I can totally hear it even on a cellphone speaker. The sm7b sounds like speaking even when someone is singing, if that makes sense. The darker tone just pulls it all down. The RE20 had a livelier shimmer. I can see how the sm7b could be great for voiceover. But RE20 seems better for singing.
I have more than 40 years in both music production and broadcasting/voiceover (production and announcing).... I've used both of these microphones extensively, along with a number of other dynamic and condenser mics (right up to vintage U87s). As I am sure you know, the choice between these two mics (as with ANY mic) will depend on the source you're recording. In my years producing voiceover artists/announcers, there were some voices which sounded better with the Shure, some with the E/V, and some with neither. I've always thought MY voice was better in an RE20 for both voiceover and singing. I actually use an RE320 for my own live vocals now, as (because it uses the RE27's N/D capsule) I find it cuts through a live band mix better.
this is the right answer. different mics for different jobs. you cannot generalize what is better (if you have several mics in a certain quality + price range similar to each other).
@@dictarthur didnt you read what he wrote? it completely depends on who is talkin into the mic, a good studio has different mics because each voice is individual and can sound a lot better with the right fit
Thanks a lot for the comparison. I noticed something that could be improved to make any comparison fairer: equalizing the volume of each of them. It happens a lot with headphone comparisons too. I know it's impossible to put them at exactly the same playback volume (db) but if one of them is 1 db or less below the other, depending on the characteristics, the louder one will sound better. As in the case of the Electro-Voice RE20, which is louder than the Shure. So, regardless of it actually being better than Shure, as it's taller it automatically looks better. Anyway, I really like the channel. Thank you very much for the comparisons. A hug from Brazil!
Interesting video yet again. For spoken word, I prefer the sound of the RE20, but as both sound good, I would use the SMB due to its better handling of plosives. In a mix, I didn't notice any huge difference between them, whereas soled, I preferred the sound of the RE20. I liked the sound of the SM7B more for guitar, especially electric guitar. Having said all that, I still prefer the sound of condenser mics overall.
I feel you could get a good result using the HPF-2B pop filter to create some distance from the capsule, then place something like a Rode WS2 over the top... It would provide a similar effect to what the SM7B is doing.
Thank you for the video. This was very helpful and pushed me in the EV direction when making the decision to upgrade my podcast microphone. I remembered the EV-635 from my young reporter days back in the 80's (you could hammer nails with that mic and it still performed). Looking forward to working w the RE20.
I know about all of the hype around the sm7b but I love it a lot, maybe more than re-20 because I love the darker tone that I get from it and I never saw the high gain need as a major barrier. Although I just used the re-20 on a podcast and it also sounds really good, I just like what the sm 7b does with my voice and acoustic.
My thoughts and opinions have changed the sm7b is still my top choice I love it, the design is great and it sounds great on most voices I have heard on the Re 20 looks weird outside of the black color it looks very weird however I have rarely heard people sound good on the mic like a year ago but now that I have heard some more voices on it I like the mic alot more and think it can be a good second choice when I finally pick up one of these mics in the future
Now that I know about the RE20 I am noticing it in many places. Most notably the Pat McAfee Show. His black mic blends into his black tank top. I guess that was deliberate.
I recently splashed out on an RE20 for our cartoon voice acting. We usually use condensor mics, but occasionally turn to dynamics if the neighbours are rowdy etc. I have to say, the RE20 is way better than I thought it would be. Our previous best dynamic was a Sennheiser e935 (which I still have a soft spot for), but my new infactuation is definitely the RE20!
I was abolut to say exactly this. I find that everyone goes for the Shure because it's so popular. Not actually knowing if it's well suited for their voice. I've had mine for going on 12 years (originally bought it for vocals) and now I'm realizing maybe the RE20 is really what I've been looking for all this time.
I really like the RE20 on vocals. It really cut through the mix very well, but strangely it didn't sound as good to me outside of the mix (without the backing tracks). I definitely liked the SM7B on guitar cabs though, but I feel like the RE20 is gonna give me what I need on live vocals.
It's because the high end is a bit sharper on the SM7. Your ears hear that solo and the more noticeable high and high-mids make it sound fuller, but in a mix with guitars and drums it gets muddy. The RE20 has a more classic sound and it definitely a better sounding mic for recording vocals/guitar/horns/bass and even kick drum than the SM7b imho.
I do love the removal of the background track, it is interesting how much the music accompanying vocals seems to actually change the vocals sound. But thanks for this, learned a lot, been eyeing these two for a while but never really understand all the tech jargon for them, cause I'm not audio engineer.
The one thing I've found with the SM7B is that no matter who I hear use it, be it professionals like Joe Rogan, streamers, RUclipsrs etc... It's never fatiguing. It's the like the old Pepsi Challenge where on one sip, Pepsi usually wins but after a whole can, Coke usually wins. Some mics like RE 20 might win (aka sound better) at first but for something longer like voice over, podcasting, ad reads etc... the Shure is always as much a pleasure to listen to after the last word as it was on the first word where as the rich, warm, low end sound of the RE 20 can get a little much after a while in my opinion.
Thanks for the excellent comparison! I've been using a SM7b for a couple of years and have been through several phases of adapting to it, especially because of the reasons you noted such as pre-amp noise. It's an excellent mic, and especially because I sometimes have some very sibilant esses I can confirm that magic it does in that realm.... But at the same time I have been leaning more and more toward finding, trying, and possibly buying an RE20. I've been thinking about it so much I've even embraced it's original color as superior because it defines it as being the other titan of the dynamic mic field in a way that just having a shape different from the Shure option just can't quite do.
I am always searching for the least sibilant mic which is why I am looking for a dynamic rather than a condenser. My voice is deep, but sibilant. I prefer the sound and look of the RE20 but I reckon it loses out on the sibilance battle!
@@TheKwaze - it likely does lose the sibilance battle, the SM7b really is excellent in that regard. Though with a de-esser I have had really good success with an RE27N/D but I definitely made a tradeoff of naturally higher gain/output of the microphone for needing to pay more attention to processing sibilant frequency ranges.
11:33 there's a good video by Julian Krause explaining that the signal to noise ratio gets larger when the gain is higher, i.e. you get less noise as you add more gain. Because of this it makes the more sense to max out your gain on the interface, and raise it less in post. Apparently this is a very common misconception, and yet another reason not to buy a Cloudlifter. Great comparison, thanks for this video.
With my motu m4 maxed, the RE20 sits at about a perfect level for most applications where you're close to the mic, but I found it too quiet any time I needed to record something from a bit of a distance or for my acoustic (I play sorta soft). So it's sometimes necessary, at least on my m4 interface. Instead of a cloud lifter, if you ever ARE in the market for an inline booster, people should consider the DM1 by sE, very transparent, and adds even more boost than the cloudlifter, and is much cheaper. I think there is even a DM2 out now. But yes I agree, use as little software possible to increase volume.
@@JunkBondTrader Yep this is exactly when you need something like this! If the problem is too much noise in your recordings, no booster will help you - only getting closer or improving your environment will (or doing weird noise removal in post of course)
I just bought a shure sm7dB, and watching your vids is really making me reconsider. I'm still very happy with my choice, but I can't get over how much "cleaner" the Re20 sounds. Why is audio shopping so variable 😢
legit best sponsor promo I've heard, and I don't even make music, so it don't pertain to me, but I actually was tempted to use it just because of how good your promotion of distrokid was. :D Also great video.
25 years in the “business”, usually tracking with LDCs. I never had to perform surgical EQ come mix time like I did with the SM7B. Not ever. It was so tough to make it sound present in a busy acoustic rock mix. It eventually became my best sounding vocals, but that’s because I spent so much damn time on them. I will never again spend 30+ hours mixing vocal tracks alone for a record. All of that, and I still feel I got “lucky” on how it sounded. I don’t have advice really or a method, because each song required different EQ curves. I picked up an RE20 today, wish me luck.
Well I’m a great fan of the whole range of RE-types of Electro Voice. The Re10,11,14,15,16 etcetera have the same sonic character, because of their design. They were all used intensively in de late 69’s and seventy’s for tv-broadcasting. Watch all those live-performances on television: sam&dave, aretha franklin, dolly parton, sly&famy stone, grateful death, bowie, ray charles, elvis , the band. etcetera. They were so build like a tank. There is one design which is even better but very vulnerable: the microphones with 2 capsules like the akg. D222,d224(the best) and telefunken and other brands. I never understood the hype around the sm7b which is basically a capsule of a sm57 in another housing.. that’s why people like it on guitar cabs ‘cause they recognize this 57-sound. I prefer the EV Re15’s which are basically a small diagram re20, super cardoid instead of cardoid. Much more a honest sound of what really comes out of the speaker like a condenser but capably of handeling much higher sound levels. One more thing about the difference of sm7b and re20: when you move away from a re20. Or come closer, there’s no difference in sound, it’s more or less the same. The sm7b you have to keep the same distance all the time because of the proximity-effect.
Does this still apply even after using the "presence boost" switch on the SM7B? Or do you still feel the RE20 is a better "out-of-the-box" mic for those who are beginners or who don't want to do a lot of post processing with audio? Thanks for doing this video, and I appreciate the insight!
As a [real] bassist (not a guitarist that plays bass) and someone that has a bass/ baritone voice register, I prefer the SM7B. Plus, the SM7B is like buying a new Jeep Wrangler, it looses very little value used. I also just bought a Shure wireless bass setup, which would be interesting for you to review (frequencies, brands, types, etc). I feel like the SM7B is way over used because of name recognition. A lot of these podcasters and youtubers don’t need a SM7B or deal with how quiet of a mic it is. The SM7B is not a very audio novice friendly mic. At least they are using a dynamic mic in a untreated room. There’s nothing worse then hearing echoes while trying to watch a tiktok or tweet reaction video. The RE20 gets its fame from Rush Limbaugh. 9/10 Limbaugh fans own one even if they don’t use it. When you get your play button I’ll 3D print you a EIB network golden mic badge for you. Great video as usual. You should really look into wireless mics and guitar systems. That’s a whole new world and a much bigger world then mics.
Thanks Jak! And great take on the SM7B :) haha thanks for the 3D print I'll be sure to cherish it haha I'll look into the wireless stuff! Really depends on how easily I can get my hands on it
one addition to the gain thing: it is still the better way to use as much of the dynamic of your ADC as possible. For example if you are at -12db with 16bit you are only using 14 bits out of the 16 which essentially just means a lower signal to noise ratio which means you are adding noise to the signal which then gets boosted when you digitally amplify your signal on your pc . It‘s still completly fine to do, but I think it‘s good to know why it‘s still good to avoid it if you can
Hey AudioHaze, thanks for the review. I am lookng for my first mic. Even from the comments, since I am a beginner, RE20 sounds like a great one. Just wanting a mic to create audio for books or podcast.
I like both, but my voice is much better for the RE20. I should mention, that personally, I don't find the plosives at all difficult to handle without any filters, I hardly ever get any ever. Mic etiquette plays a role for sure, but I don't think it very plosive-prone overall.
I owned both of them, and to be honest until today I found difficulties which one should I get rid of. I love both of them. When I do a video I prefer the Shure SM7B simply because of the elegant design. But when I did a podcast or recording I prefer the RE20. They both so good.
The biggest reason why the SM7B is a more sensible choice is that you can easily purchase a new windscreen for that, and clean the capsule with a can of air/straw attachment. When the RE20 foam inevitably rots over time, you have to take the thing apart and painstakingly service the entire mic just to refoam it. Additionally, doing some research EV’s customer support is less than ideal, and replacement parts are nowhere near as readily available or accessible. You can go on B and H photo and purchase an entirely new SM7B capsule if you ever need to. If you’re just comparing sound, yes, the RE20 sounds slightly brighter, richer and more full than the SM7B, but it comes with too many downsides in my opinion. (Side note: you also have to spend an extra 100+ USD to get the EV shock mount, and even more if you want the BSW RePop pop filter, whereas the Shure is internally shock mounted and doesn’t need an additional pop filter if you’re using it correctly.)
Nowadays they also sell a black version of the RE20 (not to be confused with the cheap little brother, the RE320). I think the black RE20 looks better in videos. I work as a professional live audio engineer. Fun fact: if you have a sax player and you present them a RE20, they will almost instantly be happy. Even though it might not be the mic producing their desired sax sound. Also works with the RE320 which usually needs to be tamed a lot in the high frequencies in order to achieve a soft sax sound (without EQing it makes a very breathy sax sound which some people also might like). Still, sax players probably see this type of mic so often in front of other famous sax players, that they seem to believe that it is the very best thing they could use. And with some heavy EQing from the sound guy their opinion gets confirmed many times. :-D
I’m likely way off base but it seems like people like the shure for the same reason people like headphones that boost up the bass. To my untrained ears, the Shure seems to muffle higher pitched voices while upping the bass, which is what a lot of guys seem to want in their voice. The RE20 appears to capture more detail and compliments many voice types imo
I like you! You're very even handed and HONEST. But when comparing these two mics, it's all about the singer. Some humans sound better with the added low-mid freqs, some benefit from the even response the RE-20 gives. I think if you had to own just four mics (OUCH!) you'd want a U-47, U67, or a Neumann 251 Elam (1), two Neumann KM184s, and... a Shure SM7a or b. Take that and run the comparisons. Much love.
That would definitely be a dream collection! Even if its only four mics lol, I would probably swap the sm7 for the re20 though. Also thanks for the kind words!
If everything compared to SM7 = "nasal", another summary statement would be that an SM7 is somewhat "scooped". Similarly, how it handles low end can be more problematic for the podcaster (or singer or whatever) who doesn't stay perfectly still but gets closer/further, OR whose quantity of bass changes a lot depending on what notes are being sung (my voice it simply doesn't work, lower notes sound beefy and higher ones are much thinner). RE20 is not as "pre-EQd" per se but is a much more neutral/forgiving sound, so if you know how to use EQ well, you can make it "scooped" if you want, but in whatever way suites the source. I own an SM7 and have used RE20s a lot. Personally, I'd say sm7s work well on a couple sources but please don't (as so many people do) track an entire album on an SM7 - there will be a nasty buildup in the mids/ highs at very particular frequencies because it's rather lumpy up there (look at the chart, then look at the RE20 chart and you'll see why an RE20 or other more "neutral" mic, like U67, U87, Coles 4038, etc "stacks" much better in a mix).
I love both, RE20 have more definition but more in fight with instruments in mix. With sm7b I really enjoy to listen all elements in mix. Thanks for this video.
I enjoyed the video, but I think it's difficult to find fault with certain audio profiles of a mic without putting the many roll-off switch settings of the SM7B through the paces. I prefer the RE20, myself, but different roll-off choices change the profile so much.
Thats true! I usually find that roll off is done in post, but I don't prioritize them as much in a review setting, in the future I'll be super to include stuff like that at least for a section of the vid :)
I actually preferred the SM7B for the blind tests on the cab, something about the brightness with the RE20 didn't do it for me, everything else though I like the RE20
Alright so here's my dilemma, I have an SM58 and AT2035, I do voiceover for RUclips and have recieved voice over coaching. I have a radio background and use a Steinberg UR22MkII. Previously it would've been a no-brainer to grab an SM7B when I was streaming since I love the sound of them. BUT I really didn't like the cab sound from the RE20. My dilemma: I can get either mic from Amazon for equal payments over the next 5-12 months as a birthday present to myself. The Shure ends up being 42.42 CAD plus tax which is $104 the first month and 42.42 for the remaining 11 months. Or basically 100ish for the RE20 over 5 months. I'm currently working with post production, so I'll take what you said about lower gain for the 7B. The SM58 just doesn't give me the sound that I'm looking for and my poor Rode PSA1 doesn't have enough weight to stay down with that mic. I've tried tightening the screws but as it was open box, it could've been shot. What do you advise? I could easily hear the difference with my DT770 Pro 250's, so I know there's a sound difference even when untreated.
@@AudioHaze Sorry about that. They were both in monthly payments, just that the SM7B is cheaper but longer and the RE20 is more but a shorter length of time. I decided to go with Amazon and get the 7B, it arrives tomorrow. I'll see how it performs on my interface. Thanks again for the video.
I own an SM7, but I agree, I like the RE20 better. My clients seem to have a basis for the SM7, they expect me to have one. They tend to look at me funny if I suggest the RE20, like I just pulled out a mic from the stone age.
You sound so good on the RE20, but boring on the SM7b, the only issue with the RE20 is all those plosives 😣. The mics that suit you pretty well are the RE20, NT1 and LCT 440 (Too bad condensers pick everything up). Wish I could follow you on instagram but I suspended it and don't remember the mail. It's good to see your audience growing and it's ok if you can't reply everyone. Just keep doing great content as always!
Thanks Angelo! And good to know! I really think the Lewitt and the RE20 sound great on me, and the NT1 is always a solid all rounder. Thanks for all the kind words as usual :)
To be honest, I liked the way the re20 sounds, it grabbed my attention more. It was also more consistent from the beginning of the vid all the way to the end. Plus I'm really into the way it looks, the sm7b looks kinda meh to me. That said, I was about to pull the trigger on the sm7b the other day. The reason I chose the sm7b was: 1. The first thing to break on these (if ever) are the windshield/pop filters. With that into consideration, I figured it'd be easier to replace the one on the sm7b since it's an external filter unlike the internal one on the re20. 2. The re20 looks goofy on a boom arm without the shockmount. Seems kinda "in your face". Plus i wish they'd make a black one with grey grills. Anyway, I'm still on the fence on whether I should get either or just stick to my podmic since I only just use them for discord or zoom calls. This mic hobby is kinda like a rabbit hole 😂 P.s. what's the title of that song your friend sang? It's really catchy!
hahaha nice to see someone else who appreciates the RE20's looks, I feel like its not every day that someone enjoys the look. And I'm not sure of the song name! I know its not out yet, here's his insta: instagram.com/sethclaytonmusic/
Awesome videos. I agree with almost everything you said, however I went with the Shure for a couple of specific reasons. 1- there are a couple easy ways to boost that presence. 2- my vocals sit a little higher up the eq AND I tend to get a little grainy (gravel isn't the right term either... anyway). 3- sibilance control. 4- my use is limited to basically just my vocals, so once I set my chain, eq, all that, I'm pretty much good to go. I also have thus weird thing with this mic that I don't find with others. I tend to HATE low end in my vocals so I tend to roll it almost all off. Especially live. But with this it's well tolerated. Not sure why. Anyway. Good videos.
At least you put thought in using the SM7B. You didn't see anyone use it and then want it for yourself. You weighed the pros and cons and matched it with your voice. Enjoy your mic.
touching your skin is my medicine, wow.. excellent review, very thorough on tighly contested dynamic mic.anyway, id love to see you review a neat king bee especially before the second gen comes out
if I had to mix your voice for a song I would prefer the sm7b, the re20 is more "in your face" and would take up too much space in the mix, for podacst it is true that it is more suitable
I have the SM7b and the RE320. Now i tried both of them and the SM7b suits my voice better than the RE320. I think that the RE20 is doing exact the same so for my voice i don't think it will sound good. Now for blind listening of the 2, i listen through the laptop speakers and funny enough, you can hear the difference much better. The SM7b sounds well, almost normal through the thinny speakers. The RE20 sounded more even, a little more of the high end was noticeable. The best advice i can give is don't buy just because of the looks. It's radio or podcast, nobody sees the microphone. Listen to any microphone how it suits your voice. In some cases, the SM57 sounds better for some people. Try a microphone in store or a booth and see if it fits your voice.
Seen a lot of reviews, but you did extremely well. I thought for sure with your editing and knowledge of the subject, I would be looking at a RUclipsr with 100k+ but I see how RUclips does ya, same for me as well lol
Variable-D limits the proximity effect by allowing slightly increased rear response (i.e. weaker directionality) at low frequencies. At the lowest frequencies the mic transitions from responding to pressure gradients to responding more to pressure magnitude, and that inherently limits the proximity effect. Electrovoice doesn't publish per-frequency patterns for the RE20, but they do for the RE27 and RE320 and both of those are only down about 15 dB in the rear at 125 Hz (vs >30 dB at 500 Hz). In contrast the SM7B is down by 30+ dB throughout the lower-mid and bass. I also prefer the RE20 btw. The SM7B's lack of gain isn't a big deal for me (all of my interfaces and recorders have noise floors of -127dB and below) but I just don't like the sound as much. It's not just a matter of frequency response for me, I feel that the RE20 produces a more pleasing output even after matching the voicing via EQ.
I thought the SM7B sounded a lot better. The way it deals with sibilance and pop is just unmatched. Of course, a persons voice and intonation have to be taken into consideration.
I love your videos! Apologies if my comment on your previous video came across as negative, mean, or disrespectful. Totally unintentional. (I might have been impaired when drafting it).
Hey no problem Robert! I know you're a fine of the channel I see you in the comments all the time :) I'm actually not even sure what comment you're referring to, I don't see it in the comments?
your re20 sounds awesome, i would choose it over the shure for shure...would love to see you do a review on the techzone audio stellar x2, x2 vintage or x3
Please trust me on this my friend. I don't know if you've ever talked into the re27? I did so for 12 years for KBPI in Denver. I would use the high cut because it's a little too present. Whenever I had to use a different Studio the chances are it was an re20 or the sm7b. I refused to use the sm7b because I did not want to sound like I was talking to feet away from a $20 microphone. But I will say, when I had to use the re20, after thousands of hours on the re27, I could see where that extra $150 went. It is the greatest dynamic microphone of all time. You should really give it a shot. By the way that new r e, black microphone with the three numbers behind it. I can't even say it because it makes me dry heave. That was electro voicees most disappointing creation
Great video! Authentic, likable, as unbiased as possible, informative and well produced. Great package! Couldn’t believe you don’t have more subscriptions (yet)! To that end, here have mine.
@@AudioHaze You’re welcome. By the way I had ordered the RE20, SM7B and the Icon Pro for a test run. Considering my voice coloration, my equipment and environment, the resulting amount of required work in post and the intended purpose I came out finding the SM7B the least appealing under my circumstances. I would have loved to keep the RE20 for being more forgiving then a condenser, but it doesn’t go to well with the lows of my voice either and the Icon Pro just blew them both out of the water right out of the box.
There is a reason the radio stations use the RE-20. I used them both at B+H a decade ago, and it was clear that the RE-20 was simply...better. Esp for my deep bass voice.
Hey AudioHaze! Have you had the chance to review the EV RE 27n/d ? I LOVE this mic! Also have the Shure SM7b. Both have a good place depending on the application. I'd like to hear your comments on the 27 n/d. I beleive with the high end (treble) roll-off switch engaged, and keeping the other 2 switches in normal mode, it sounds awesome.
I would love to have, and use both. The SM7B has that low-mid character that I really like, and it handles EQ really well. Sure you almost always boost high frequencies, but I prefer doing that, and being able to keep the lowend, and the smoothness in higher frequencies. The RE20 is very good when you want your or someone's voice to be crisp, open, and more detailed. For signing I prefer the RE-20 unless the vocals are really loud (edit i meant screaming) or the singer's voice is very bright. I love both, and I would use which one sounds best. Hope that makes sense, I'm really tired, and I accidentally closed YT on my phone, and had tto write my comment again. It ended up being very different.Good night
So I’m in the process of purchasing a microphone because a headset just isn’t going to cut it anymore. I’m curious what you’d recommend for a fairly untreated room. My room is pretty bare, but I plan on filling it up and making it feel cozy because there’s hardly anything in it currently. I will admit that I was leaning towards the SM7B because I see a lot of content creators use it. After this though I am considering the RE20. I know nothing about pretty much everything you talked about when it came to noises and whatnot. It just seems to me that the RE20 is easier and more simple to use. The SM7B seems more of a microphone that I’d maybe switch to when I want to do more with singing and whatnot.
Yboi got the distro sponsor ayye!!! Anyway have you ever heard about a plugin called "Mic Mod"? It from the company that made auto tune. They claim that it can quote on quote make the mics you own sound like the mics you wish you owned. I know that it sound kinda stupid, but i tried it on my AT2035 using the TLM103 preset and the top end is sound kinda better ngl xD Hope you check it out, Much love man.
oooh dude that sounds amazing and also such a good idea for a video as well, I wonder if I could reach out to them for some sort of trial license at the very least?
re27 better than re20? I would like to buy one I would like your opinion that you are a professional I tend towards perfectionism in the sense that I would like to buy one for always do not change forever
I have a rich baritone voice. The SM7B adds no magic that I don't already have. I prefer the true response of the RE20. Try a few mics and choose the one that works best with your voice.
Hey Everyone! If this helped you make a decision on one of these mics, these links provide me with a small commission :) thanks for being awesome friends
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Fact: 100 % of RUclipsrs/podcasters/whatevernarcissists who buy either of those make their purchase with their eyes, not their ears.
At age 72, I'm a bit of an outlier in this conversation, to say the least. I began a very brief radio career in 1966 using the old RCA 44-BX ribbon mic. Radio didn't work out, so I practiced medicine for 44 years but now am back in voice production with podcasting. Of course, a lot changed over those years. After working my way through several mics (including the SM7B) I ultimately settled on the RE-20, for most of the reasons you listed. Thanks very much for validating my choice. It's nice to feel in sync with younger, clearer thinkers than my contemporaries. 🤣
Hahahah and on the flip side its nice to know my perspective has been confirmed by your wisdom!
That's awesome. I got started 17 years ago recording 'liguaphone dialogues' on the side for beer money. Covid19 persuaded me to get my old XLRs out of the cupboard and do some podcasting.
Like you I forgot how much I missed it.
Yeah, the RE-20 is a great microphone. IMO, it's one of the best dynamic microphones out there. It's great with vocals, and music producers really love it on kick drums.
If you liked the RCA back in the day you should try one of the modern ribbons like the Royers, Samars (I'm partial to the VL37), or the Rode NTR. They still have the openness and smoothness of the classics, but modern materials have enabled much lighter and thinner ribbon motors with vastly better high-frequency response. I use a Samar VL373A for Blumlein and Mid-Side stereo recordings.
This is how mic reviews should be done.
I really love the quick back-and-forth switching between the two mics, and not just randomly, but on rhythm.
Thanks so much!
I just purchased the SM7B a week ago for voiceover and had to do spend a significant amount of time EQ tweaking to get it sounding balanced. Before I even watched this vid I had already made up my mind to return the sure and purchase the RE20.
I used the SM7B for years, and preferred it over the RE20... until I picked up the RE320. Now the SM7B sits in the drawer and the 320 is on my desk! I just like it better for my own voice.
The RE20 sounds high end. The shure sounds good. My take on it. Unfortunately everyone is on the SM7B wagon because it’s familiar.
Agreed.
SM7b is the safer mic.
Build in shockmount, easy to setup, better resistant against electrical noises, clean and not too in the way looks wise.
Especially if you have guests, it feels more safer, less scary to manipulate. That is pretty damn huge when you get people on the podcast who hasn't done that ever.
I don't think the SM7b is a bandwagon thing at all. Especially now that a lot of podcasts are doing filming as well.
It is not a bad mic. It's a different mic. Neither sound better or worse to me. Just different mic for different situations.
There is a reason why both mics are one of the most used (dynamic) broadcast mics.
Hell, I'd vouch for an RE20 as host mic and SM7b as guest mic. Having mic separation can be a great tool for larger sized podcasts in terms of people doing the podcast.
@@annekedebruyn7797 That's a good point! Honestly I know MKBHD uses the RE27 as a host mic and SM7Bs for the guests
The RE20 sounds like the vintage SM7 before they cut the high end and trapped the lows. It makes sense to own both. SM7B for guitar cabs and chorus backup. RE20 for lead vocals anything acoustic including kick drum and drum overhead. I like the RE20 for vocals a lot and speeds up editing because you don't have to chase that upper-end clarity as mentioned here. One thing to try is to record a vocal on both mics simultaneously and let the SM7B represent low-mid "backup" vocal and have the RE-20 act as the "lead" vocal. That combo comes together as you play with phasing and can create some gorgeous vocal depth.
I can
@@jf4828 You can
He can
We all can
Both great mics. I have tried both and kept the RE20. It's a better match for my voice. The Shure is a wonderful mic as well. Depends on the voice pumping thru it.
Totally agree, I'm curious which you preferred on my voice?
@@AudioHaze I honestly believe the RE20 sounded better with your voice lol
@@TerpaWerpa Which would be better for a medium to low nasally voice?
Been binging a lot of these RE20 comparison videos today and am starting to discern the differences. In the singing test I can totally hear it even on a cellphone speaker. The sm7b sounds like speaking even when someone is singing, if that makes sense. The darker tone just pulls it all down. The RE20 had a livelier shimmer. I can see how the sm7b could be great for voiceover. But RE20 seems better for singing.
most of the music production world does not agree with you, but I guess it depends on the voice involved.
I have more than 40 years in both music production and broadcasting/voiceover (production and announcing).... I've used both of these microphones extensively, along with a number of other dynamic and condenser mics (right up to vintage U87s). As I am sure you know, the choice between these two mics (as with ANY mic) will depend on the source you're recording. In my years producing voiceover artists/announcers, there were some voices which sounded better with the Shure, some with the E/V, and some with neither. I've always thought MY voice was better in an RE20 for both voiceover and singing. I actually use an RE320 for my own live vocals now, as (because it uses the RE27's N/D capsule) I find it cuts through a live band mix better.
and, for livestreaming what mic du you think is the better????
this is the right answer. different mics for different jobs. you cannot generalize what is better (if you have several mics in a certain quality + price range similar to each other).
@@dictarthur didnt you read what he wrote? it completely depends on who is talkin into the mic, a good studio has different mics because each voice is individual and can sound a lot better with the right fit
Thanks a lot for the comparison. I noticed something that could be improved to make any comparison fairer: equalizing the volume of each of them. It happens a lot with headphone comparisons too. I know it's impossible to put them at exactly the same playback volume (db) but if one of them is 1 db or less below the other, depending on the characteristics, the louder one will sound better. As in the case of the Electro-Voice RE20, which is louder than the Shure. So, regardless of it actually being better than Shure, as it's taller it automatically looks better.
Anyway, I really like the channel. Thank you very much for the comparisons.
A hug from Brazil!
Interesting video yet again. For spoken word, I prefer the sound of the RE20, but as both sound good, I would use the SMB due to its better handling of plosives. In a mix, I didn't notice any huge difference between them, whereas soled, I preferred the sound of the RE20. I liked the sound of the SM7B more for guitar, especially electric guitar. Having said all that, I still prefer the sound of condenser mics overall.
I feel you could get a good result using the HPF-2B pop filter to create some distance from the capsule, then place something like a Rode WS2 over the top... It would provide a similar effect to what the SM7B is doing.
Finally. A great video explaining the Pros/Cons of each, objectively with a touch of proven subjectivity. Good job!
Thank you for the video. This was very helpful and pushed me in the EV direction when making the decision to upgrade my podcast microphone. I remembered the EV-635 from my young reporter days back in the 80's (you could hammer nails with that mic and it still performed). Looking forward to working w the RE20.
Thanks for the great review. Just bought the RE20 for my video essays.
Damn you’re such a great content creator. Super informative and detailed.
Thank you so much man!! Stuff like this keeps me motivated :)
I know about all of the hype around the sm7b but I love it a lot, maybe more than re-20 because I love the darker tone that I get from it and I never saw the high gain need as a major barrier. Although I just used the re-20 on a podcast and it also sounds really good, I just like what the sm 7b does with my voice and acoustic.
lol sounds like you need both brother!!
My thoughts and opinions have changed the sm7b is still my top choice I love it, the design is great and it sounds great on most voices I have heard on the Re 20 looks weird outside of the black color it looks very weird however I have rarely heard people sound good on the mic like a year ago but now that I have heard some more voices on it I like the mic alot more and think it can be a good second choice when I finally pick up one of these mics in the future
Now that I know about the RE20 I am noticing it in many places. Most notably the Pat McAfee Show. His black mic blends into his black tank top. I guess that was deliberate.
I recently splashed out on an RE20 for our cartoon voice acting. We usually use condensor mics, but occasionally turn to dynamics if the neighbours are rowdy etc. I have to say, the RE20 is way better than I thought it would be. Our previous best dynamic was a Sennheiser e935 (which I still have a soft spot for), but my new infactuation is definitely the RE20!
I was abolut to say exactly this. I find that everyone goes for the Shure because it's so popular. Not actually knowing if it's well suited for their voice. I've had mine for going on 12 years (originally bought it for vocals) and now I'm realizing maybe the RE20 is really what I've been looking for all this time.
I really like the RE20 on vocals. It really cut through the mix very well, but strangely it didn't sound as good to me outside of the mix (without the backing tracks). I definitely liked the SM7B on guitar cabs though, but I feel like the RE20 is gonna give me what I need on live vocals.
It's because the high end is a bit sharper on the SM7. Your ears hear that solo and the more noticeable high and high-mids make it sound fuller, but in a mix with guitars and drums it gets muddy. The RE20 has a more classic sound and it definitely a better sounding mic for recording vocals/guitar/horns/bass and even kick drum than the SM7b imho.
I do love the removal of the background track, it is interesting how much the music accompanying vocals seems to actually change the vocals sound. But thanks for this, learned a lot, been eyeing these two for a while but never really understand all the tech jargon for them, cause I'm not audio engineer.
The RE20 is the clear winner. Have you ever did a review on the re27nd, that’s becoming my go to mic as dynamics mics go.
Enjoy all of your videos!
I haven't but I would love to in the future! And thanks my friend :)
The one thing I've found with the SM7B is that no matter who I hear use it, be it professionals like Joe Rogan, streamers, RUclipsrs etc... It's never fatiguing.
It's the like the old Pepsi Challenge where on one sip, Pepsi usually wins but after a whole can, Coke usually wins. Some mics like RE 20 might win (aka sound better) at first but for something longer like voice over, podcasting, ad reads etc... the Shure is always as much a pleasure to listen to after the last word as it was on the first word where as the rich, warm, low end sound of the RE 20 can get a little much after a while in my opinion.
I can definitely see that, its darker tone and lack of sibilance does make for a tone that can outlast many mics.
Thanks for the excellent comparison!
I've been using a SM7b for a couple of years and have been through several phases of adapting to it, especially because of the reasons you noted such as pre-amp noise. It's an excellent mic, and especially because I sometimes have some very sibilant esses I can confirm that magic it does in that realm.... But at the same time I have been leaning more and more toward finding, trying, and possibly buying an RE20. I've been thinking about it so much I've even embraced it's original color as superior because it defines it as being the other titan of the dynamic mic field in a way that just having a shape different from the Shure option just can't quite do.
Couldn't agree more! I think theres a benefit to having both in your mic locker, honestly very different sounds to them both
I am always searching for the least sibilant mic which is why I am looking for a dynamic rather than a condenser. My voice is deep, but sibilant. I prefer the sound and look of the RE20 but I reckon it loses out on the sibilance battle!
@@TheKwaze - it likely does lose the sibilance battle, the SM7b really is excellent in that regard. Though with a de-esser I have had really good success with an RE27N/D but I definitely made a tradeoff of naturally higher gain/output of the microphone for needing to pay more attention to processing sibilant frequency ranges.
Ah i was waiting for this exact comparison for a month and then i see this in my recommended tysmm
haha yes happy to deliver :)
11:33 there's a good video by Julian Krause explaining that the signal to noise ratio gets larger when the gain is higher, i.e. you get less noise as you add more gain. Because of this it makes the more sense to max out your gain on the interface, and raise it less in post. Apparently this is a very common misconception, and yet another reason not to buy a Cloudlifter. Great comparison, thanks for this video.
With my motu m4 maxed, the RE20 sits at about a perfect level for most applications where you're close to the mic, but I found it too quiet any time I needed to record something from a bit of a distance or for my acoustic (I play sorta soft). So it's sometimes necessary, at least on my m4 interface. Instead of a cloud lifter, if you ever ARE in the market for an inline booster, people should consider the DM1 by sE, very transparent, and adds even more boost than the cloudlifter, and is much cheaper. I think there is even a DM2 out now. But yes I agree, use as little software possible to increase volume.
@@JunkBondTrader Yep this is exactly when you need something like this! If the problem is too much noise in your recordings, no booster will help you - only getting closer or improving your environment will (or doing weird noise removal in post of course)
I just bought a shure sm7dB, and watching your vids is really making me reconsider. I'm still very happy with my choice, but I can't get over how much "cleaner" the Re20 sounds. Why is audio shopping so variable 😢
legit best sponsor promo I've heard, and I don't even make music, so it don't pertain to me, but I actually was tempted to use it just because of how good your promotion of distrokid was. :D Also great video.
Hahahah thanks I'm honored lol
25 years in the “business”, usually tracking with LDCs. I never had to perform surgical EQ come mix time like I did with the SM7B. Not ever. It was so tough to make it sound present in a busy acoustic rock mix. It eventually became my best sounding vocals, but that’s because I spent so much damn time on them. I will never again spend 30+ hours mixing vocal tracks alone for a record. All of that, and I still feel I got “lucky” on how it sounded. I don’t have advice really or a method, because each song required different EQ curves.
I picked up an RE20 today, wish me luck.
How is it?
Well I’m a great fan of the whole range of RE-types of Electro Voice.
The Re10,11,14,15,16 etcetera have the same sonic character, because of their design. They were all used intensively in de late 69’s and seventy’s for tv-broadcasting. Watch all those live-performances on television: sam&dave, aretha franklin, dolly parton, sly&famy stone, grateful death, bowie, ray charles, elvis , the band. etcetera.
They were so build like a tank. There is one design which is even better but very vulnerable: the microphones with 2 capsules like the akg. D222,d224(the best) and telefunken and other brands. I never understood the hype around the sm7b which is basically a capsule of a sm57 in another housing.. that’s why people like it on guitar cabs ‘cause they recognize this 57-sound. I prefer the EV Re15’s which are basically a small diagram re20, super cardoid instead of cardoid. Much more a honest sound of what really comes out of the speaker like a condenser but capably of handeling much higher sound levels.
One more thing about the difference of sm7b and re20: when you move away from a re20. Or come closer, there’s no difference in sound, it’s more or less the same. The sm7b you have to keep the same distance all the time because of the proximity-effect.
I’ll tell you my favorite at the beginning of the video. I am a fan of both but love the RE20. It’s an amazing microphone.
Agreed!
Does this still apply even after using the "presence boost" switch on the SM7B? Or do you still feel the RE20 is a better "out-of-the-box" mic for those who are beginners or who don't want to do a lot of post processing with audio? Thanks for doing this video, and I appreciate the insight!
thanks so much for your help.. ended up going with the re 20
As a [real] bassist (not a guitarist that plays bass) and someone that has a bass/ baritone voice register, I prefer the SM7B. Plus, the SM7B is like buying a new Jeep Wrangler, it looses very little value used. I also just bought a Shure wireless bass setup, which would be interesting for you to review (frequencies, brands, types, etc).
I feel like the SM7B is way over used because of name recognition. A lot of these podcasters and youtubers don’t need a SM7B or deal with how quiet of a mic it is. The SM7B is not a very audio novice friendly mic. At least they are using a dynamic mic in a untreated room. There’s nothing worse then hearing echoes while trying to watch a tiktok or tweet reaction video.
The RE20 gets its fame from Rush Limbaugh. 9/10 Limbaugh fans own one even if they don’t use it. When you get your play button I’ll 3D print you a EIB network golden mic badge for you.
Great video as usual. You should really look into wireless mics and guitar systems. That’s a whole new world and a much bigger world then mics.
Thanks Jak! And great take on the SM7B :) haha thanks for the 3D print I'll be sure to cherish it haha I'll look into the wireless stuff! Really depends on how easily I can get my hands on it
Awesome video man. I respect the amount of time and effort it takes to make it. PS. I'm an SM7B fan-boy.😀
Thanks dude! Honestly I think my editing it getting too time consuming I need to pull it back haha
I was waiting for this review,great video 👏👏👏
one addition to the gain thing: it is still the better way to use as much of the dynamic of your ADC as possible. For example if you are at -12db with 16bit you are only using 14 bits out of the 16 which essentially just means a lower signal to noise ratio which means you are adding noise to the signal which then gets boosted when you digitally amplify your signal on your pc . It‘s still completly fine to do, but I think it‘s good to know why it‘s still good to avoid it if you can
super nice video though!
Hey AudioHaze, thanks for the review. I am lookng for my first mic. Even from the comments, since I am a beginner, RE20 sounds like a great one. Just wanting a mic to create audio for books or podcast.
I like both, but my voice is much better for the RE20. I should mention, that personally, I don't find the plosives at all difficult to handle without any filters, I hardly ever get any ever. Mic etiquette plays a role for sure, but I don't think it very plosive-prone overall.
I owned both of them, and to be honest until today I found difficulties which one should I get rid of. I love both of them. When I do a video I prefer the Shure SM7B simply because of the elegant design. But when I did a podcast or recording I prefer the RE20. They both so good.
The age old dilemma "Does the RE20 look too weird" haha
Did you see the RE20 back version?
The biggest reason why the SM7B is a more sensible choice is that you can easily purchase a new windscreen for that, and clean the capsule with a can of air/straw attachment.
When the RE20 foam inevitably rots over time, you have to take the thing apart and painstakingly service the entire mic just to refoam it.
Additionally, doing some research EV’s customer support is less than ideal, and replacement parts are nowhere near as readily available or accessible. You can go on B and H photo and purchase an entirely new SM7B capsule if you ever need to.
If you’re just comparing sound, yes, the RE20 sounds slightly brighter, richer and more full than the SM7B, but it comes with too many downsides in my opinion.
(Side note: you also have to spend an extra 100+ USD to get the EV shock mount, and even more if you want the BSW RePop pop filter, whereas the Shure is internally shock mounted and doesn’t need an additional pop filter if you’re using it correctly.)
Nowadays they also sell a black version of the RE20 (not to be confused with the cheap little brother, the RE320). I think the black RE20 looks better in videos.
I work as a professional live audio engineer. Fun fact: if you have a sax player and you present them a RE20, they will almost instantly be happy. Even though it might not be the mic producing their desired sax sound. Also works with the RE320 which usually needs to be tamed a lot in the high frequencies in order to achieve a soft sax sound (without EQing it makes a very breathy sax sound which some people also might like). Still, sax players probably see this type of mic so often in front of other famous sax players, that they seem to believe that it is the very best thing they could use. And with some heavy EQing from the sound guy their opinion gets confirmed many times. :-D
I’m likely way off base but it seems like people like the shure for the same reason people like headphones that boost up the bass. To my untrained ears, the Shure seems to muffle higher pitched voices while upping the bass, which is what a lot of guys seem to want in their voice. The RE20 appears to capture more detail and compliments many voice types imo
Loving the sound of the RE20, the Shure sounds dull in comparison IMO, but the RE20 has more clarity but is not sibilant.
Yeah great take, I tend to agree :)
I like you! You're very even handed and HONEST. But when comparing these two mics, it's all about the singer. Some humans sound better with the added low-mid freqs, some benefit from the even response the RE-20 gives. I think if you had to own just four mics (OUCH!) you'd want a U-47, U67, or a Neumann 251 Elam (1), two Neumann KM184s, and... a Shure SM7a or b. Take that and run the comparisons. Much love.
That would definitely be a dream collection! Even if its only four mics lol, I would probably swap the sm7 for the re20 though. Also thanks for the kind words!
That was some really remarkable singing... and a very informative review overall. Many thanks, and congrats to that artist.
Thanks! I'll let him know as well :)
If everything compared to SM7 = "nasal", another summary statement would be that an SM7 is somewhat "scooped". Similarly, how it handles low end can be more problematic for the podcaster (or singer or whatever) who doesn't stay perfectly still but gets closer/further, OR whose quantity of bass changes a lot depending on what notes are being sung (my voice it simply doesn't work, lower notes sound beefy and higher ones are much thinner). RE20 is not as "pre-EQd" per se but is a much more neutral/forgiving sound, so if you know how to use EQ well, you can make it "scooped" if you want, but in whatever way suites the source. I own an SM7 and have used RE20s a lot. Personally, I'd say sm7s work well on a couple sources but please don't (as so many people do) track an entire album on an SM7 - there will be a nasty buildup in the mids/ highs at very particular frequencies because it's rather lumpy up there (look at the chart, then look at the RE20 chart and you'll see why an RE20 or other more "neutral" mic, like U67, U87, Coles 4038, etc "stacks" much better in a mix).
Very good review --- well done - throughtful and articulate and organized I am buying an RE20
Thanks! And enjoy the RE20 you certainly won't be disappointed :)
I love both, RE20 have more definition but more in fight with instruments in mix. With sm7b I really enjoy to listen all elements in mix. Thanks for this video.
Nice! I agree, it can sound super solid on guitar cabs in my opinion, better than the RE20, as exhibited in this video :)
@@AudioHaze also both are perfect for micing a bass cabs :) the previous comment was related mainly to the vocals.
honey wake up new audiohaze video
hahahaha amazing
I love the video! Great job man. Very informative.
Thanks dude :)
My endgame mic is the Electro Voice RE320 -- saves a little money and sounds awesome
True! And great choice :)
I bought the RE20, very easy to mix low-mid male vocals!!!
I like the sound of the SM7B on the guitar cabinet. But if you mix it in with other instruments the low end may clash. Great comparison.
Both of them deserve all the accolades that come their way but in the end, I bought an RE20.
Same here :)
I enjoyed the video, but I think it's difficult to find fault with certain audio profiles of a mic without putting the many roll-off switch settings of the SM7B through the paces. I prefer the RE20, myself, but different roll-off choices change the profile so much.
Thats true! I usually find that roll off is done in post, but I don't prioritize them as much in a review setting, in the future I'll be super to include stuff like that at least for a section of the vid :)
Wow I just bought an SM7B but looked my closet and had aquired an EV RE 20 a few years back ... I may just to a live comparison!!
Ev Re20 is my favorite dynamic mic for singing and spoken words!
Also, I picked the RE20 in the blind test both times....
I actually preferred the SM7B for the blind tests on the cab, something about the brightness with the RE20 didn't do it for me, everything else though I like the RE20
Alright so here's my dilemma, I have an SM58 and AT2035, I do voiceover for RUclips and have recieved voice over coaching. I have a radio background and use a Steinberg UR22MkII.
Previously it would've been a no-brainer to grab an SM7B when I was streaming since I love the sound of them. BUT I really didn't like the cab sound from the RE20.
My dilemma: I can get either mic from Amazon for equal payments over the next 5-12 months as a birthday present to myself.
The Shure ends up being 42.42 CAD plus tax which is $104 the first month and 42.42 for the remaining 11 months. Or basically 100ish for the RE20 over 5 months.
I'm currently working with post production, so I'll take what you said about lower gain for the 7B.
The SM58 just doesn't give me the sound that I'm looking for and my poor Rode PSA1 doesn't have enough weight to stay down with that mic. I've tried tightening the screws but as it was open box, it could've been shot.
What do you advise? I could easily hear the difference with my DT770 Pro 250's, so I know there's a sound difference even when untreated.
I guess I'm a little confused, you can either get the SM7B in payments or what was the other option?
@@AudioHaze Sorry about that. They were both in monthly payments, just that the SM7B is cheaper but longer and the RE20 is more but a shorter length of time.
I decided to go with Amazon and get the 7B, it arrives tomorrow.
I'll see how it performs on my interface.
Thanks again for the video.
First time I’ve never skipped an in video ad
I thought you would have 538k subs, instead of 5.38k. what? You are too awesome, you deserve way more subs! Just subbed! 🤘😁 - Kevin Venture
Ah thanks so much Kevin! Maybe sometime in the future :)
I own an SM7, but I agree, I like the RE20 better. My clients seem to have a basis for the SM7, they expect me to have one. They tend to look at me funny if I suggest the RE20, like I just pulled out a mic from the stone age.
You sound so good on the RE20, but boring on the SM7b, the only issue with the RE20 is all those plosives 😣. The mics that suit you pretty well are the RE20, NT1 and LCT 440 (Too bad condensers pick everything up). Wish I could follow you on instagram but I suspended it and don't remember the mail. It's good to see your audience growing and it's ok if you can't reply everyone. Just keep doing great content as always!
Thanks Angelo! And good to know! I really think the Lewitt and the RE20 sound great on me, and the NT1 is always a solid all rounder. Thanks for all the kind words as usual :)
Great review & comparison, very helpful, thank you!
Glad I could help!
That Distrokid sale was so good with the Applebee hate that I almost considered getting it. Then I realized I don't produce music.
Hahaha I will forever throw Applebees under the bus to support independent musicians
I’m impressed at how easily identifiable those two mics are in the blind test- and the RE20 wins out for me.
To be honest, I liked the way the re20 sounds, it grabbed my attention more. It was also more consistent from the beginning of the vid all the way to the end. Plus I'm really into the way it looks, the sm7b looks kinda meh to me.
That said, I was about to pull the trigger on the sm7b the other day. The reason I chose the sm7b was:
1. The first thing to break on these (if ever) are the windshield/pop filters. With that into consideration, I figured it'd be easier to replace the one on the sm7b since it's an external filter unlike the internal one on the re20.
2. The re20 looks goofy on a boom arm without the shockmount. Seems kinda "in your face". Plus i wish they'd make a black one with grey grills.
Anyway, I'm still on the fence on whether I should get either or just stick to my podmic since I only just use them for discord or zoom calls. This mic hobby is kinda like a rabbit hole 😂
P.s. what's the title of that song your friend sang? It's really catchy!
hahaha nice to see someone else who appreciates the RE20's looks, I feel like its not every day that someone enjoys the look. And I'm not sure of the song name! I know its not out yet, here's his insta: instagram.com/sethclaytonmusic/
@@AudioHaze awesome, thank you for the link! 👍🏼
Awesome videos. I agree with almost everything you said, however I went with the Shure for a couple of specific reasons. 1- there are a couple easy ways to boost that presence. 2- my vocals sit a little higher up the eq AND I tend to get a little grainy (gravel isn't the right term either... anyway). 3- sibilance control. 4- my use is limited to basically just my vocals, so once I set my chain, eq, all that, I'm pretty much good to go. I also have thus weird thing with this mic that I don't find with others. I tend to HATE low end in my vocals so I tend to roll it almost all off. Especially live. But with this it's well tolerated. Not sure why.
Anyway. Good videos.
Whatever works for you my friend! Sounds like you've got a killer set up and are getting the high end you need out of the SM7 :) happy recording dude!
At least you put thought in using the SM7B. You didn't see anyone use it and then want it for yourself. You weighed the pros and cons and matched it with your voice. Enjoy your mic.
I prefer the RE20 over the SM7B, too. Due to looks I got the matt black version of the RE20 which looks pretty decent imo.
touching your skin is my medicine, wow.. excellent review, very thorough on tighly contested dynamic mic.anyway, id love to see you review a neat king bee especially before the second gen comes out
Definitely! Hopefully I can get my hands on one of those soon :)
Hey, glad you like the lyrics!
Great review. In the end I bought the Sm7B
Enjoy it!!
if I had to mix your voice for a song I would prefer the sm7b, the re20 is more "in your face" and would take up too much space in the mix, for podacst it is true that it is more suitable
I have the SM7b and the RE320. Now i tried both of them and the SM7b suits my voice better than the RE320. I think that the RE20 is doing exact the same so for my voice i don't think it will sound good. Now for blind listening of the 2, i listen through the laptop speakers and funny enough, you can hear the difference much better. The SM7b sounds well, almost normal through the thinny speakers. The RE20 sounded more even, a little more of the high end was noticeable. The best advice i can give is don't buy just because of the looks. It's radio or podcast, nobody sees the microphone. Listen to any microphone how it suits your voice. In some cases, the SM57 sounds better for some people. Try a microphone in store or a booth and see if it fits your voice.
Seen a lot of reviews, but you did extremely well. I thought for sure with your editing and knowledge of the subject, I would be looking at a RUclipsr with 100k+ but I see how RUclips does ya, same for me as well lol
You both seem to have made it lol
Variable-D limits the proximity effect by allowing slightly increased rear response (i.e. weaker directionality) at low frequencies. At the lowest frequencies the mic transitions from responding to pressure gradients to responding more to pressure magnitude, and that inherently limits the proximity effect. Electrovoice doesn't publish per-frequency patterns for the RE20, but they do for the RE27 and RE320 and both of those are only down about 15 dB in the rear at 125 Hz (vs >30 dB at 500 Hz). In contrast the SM7B is down by 30+ dB throughout the lower-mid and bass.
I also prefer the RE20 btw. The SM7B's lack of gain isn't a big deal for me (all of my interfaces and recorders have noise floors of -127dB and below) but I just don't like the sound as much. It's not just a matter of frequency response for me, I feel that the RE20 produces a more pleasing output even after matching the voicing via EQ.
Wtf you are talented asf with the guitar man 🔥🔥🔥
Where can i listen to more of this soothing guitar playing stuff that you just did🔥👍
I thought the SM7B sounded a lot better.
The way it deals with sibilance and pop is just unmatched.
Of course, a persons voice and intonation have to be taken into consideration.
I love your videos! Apologies if my comment on your previous video came across as negative, mean, or disrespectful. Totally unintentional. (I might have been impaired when drafting it).
Hey no problem Robert! I know you're a fine of the channel I see you in the comments all the time :) I'm actually not even sure what comment you're referring to, I don't see it in the comments?
@@AudioHaze I deleted it because I was worried it might have come off the wrong way. Tone is tough via text.
@@RedState420Esq ah okay, well no worries man I know you’re a good dude 👍🏻
your re20 sounds awesome, i would choose it over the shure for shure...would love to see you do a review on the techzone audio stellar x2, x2 vintage or x3
I would love to! Just got to get my hands in the mic some how :)
love the pun
Every time you switch to the 7B my ears hear mids and they are happy.
Thats definitely fair! Mids are the SM7B's bread and butter :)
Please trust me on this my friend. I don't know if you've ever talked into the re27? I did so for 12 years for KBPI in Denver. I would use the high cut because it's a little too present. Whenever I had to use a different Studio the chances are it was an re20 or the sm7b. I refused to use the sm7b because I did not want to sound like I was talking to feet away from a $20 microphone. But I will say, when I had to use the re20, after thousands of hours on the re27, I could see where that extra $150 went. It is the greatest dynamic microphone of all time. You should really give it a shot. By the way that new r e, black microphone with the three numbers behind it. I can't even say it because it makes me dry heave. That was electro voicees most disappointing creation
I love the transitions brother
Thank you thank you :)
Great video!
Authentic, likable, as unbiased as possible, informative and well produced. Great package!
Couldn’t believe you don’t have more subscriptions (yet)!
To that end, here have mine.
Ah thank you so much thats so nice of you!!
@@AudioHaze You’re welcome.
By the way I had ordered the RE20, SM7B and the Icon Pro for a test run. Considering my voice coloration, my equipment and environment, the resulting amount of required work in post and the intended purpose I came out finding the SM7B the least appealing under my circumstances.
I would have loved to keep the RE20 for being more forgiving then a condenser, but it doesn’t go to well with the lows of my voice either and the Icon Pro just blew them both out of the water right out of the box.
@@MenschWerdeWesentlich Nice! I'll have to check out the icon pro then :)
Interesting comparison. Either one can be a good choice. If you take the looks out an SM57 with the A81WS can sound great.
Agree! I have a whole video on on that actually haha, and I actually think the 57 with a filter looks pretty dope
@@AudioHaze I’ll look for it, thanks.
I have that exact setup.
@@LiftGammaGainKC me too! 👍
There is a reason the radio stations use the RE-20. I used them both at B+H a decade ago, and it was clear that the RE-20 was simply...better. Esp for my deep bass voice.
Great vid!! I just subbed! What kind of camera are you using? Looks great
Thanks dude! It’s a Canon M50, but honestly it’s the studio lights that made the difference, just some cheap Neewer ones from Amazon
Love the guy
Singing!!! Rewatched just for that part. Can we buy that song somewhere
Hey AudioHaze! Have you had the chance to review the EV RE 27n/d ? I LOVE this mic! Also have the Shure SM7b. Both have a good place depending on the application. I'd like to hear your comments on the 27 n/d. I beleive with the high end (treble) roll-off switch engaged, and keeping the other 2 switches in normal mode, it sounds awesome.
I would love to have, and use both. The SM7B has that low-mid character that I really like, and it handles EQ really well. Sure you almost always boost high frequencies, but I prefer doing that, and being able to keep the lowend, and the smoothness in higher frequencies. The RE20 is very good when you want your or someone's voice to be crisp, open, and more detailed.
For signing I prefer the RE-20 unless the vocals are really loud (edit i meant screaming) or the singer's voice is very bright.
I love both, and I would use which one sounds best.
Hope that makes sense, I'm really tired, and I accidentally closed YT on my phone, and had tto write my comment again. It ended up being very different.Good night
Yeah, getting the best of both worlds is definitely the ideal, I'm lucky to have that opportunity :) and sleep well!!
This is a great review.
So I’m in the process of purchasing a microphone because a headset just isn’t going to cut it anymore. I’m curious what you’d recommend for a fairly untreated room. My room is pretty bare, but I plan on filling it up and making it feel cozy because there’s hardly anything in it currently. I will admit that I was leaning towards the SM7B because I see a lot of content creators use it. After this though I am considering the RE20. I know nothing about pretty much everything you talked about when it came to noises and whatnot. It just seems to me that the RE20 is easier and more simple to use. The SM7B seems more of a microphone that I’d maybe switch to when I want to do more with singing and whatnot.
Sm7b and re20 got my attention,but now Earthworks Icon Pro got all of my attention,do a review of it!
Would love to if I could get my hands on one!
In my opinion, the RE20 looks much better when used with the EV shock mount. I prefer the look over the SM7b.
Yboi got the distro sponsor ayye!!!
Anyway have you ever heard about a plugin called "Mic Mod"? It from the company that made auto tune.
They claim that it can quote on quote make the mics you own sound like the mics you wish you owned.
I know that it sound kinda stupid, but i tried it on my AT2035 using the TLM103 preset and the top end is sound kinda better ngl xD
Hope you check it out, Much love man.
oooh dude that sounds amazing and also such a good idea for a video as well, I wonder if I could reach out to them for some sort of trial license at the very least?
@@AudioHaze I think you can try the trial 14days version for free.
I chose the RE20 because of the better sensitivity and the better high end. (and the black version looks better)
re27 better than re20? I would like to buy one I would like your opinion that you are a professional I tend towards perfectionism in the sense that I would like to buy one for always do not change forever
I have a rich baritone voice. The SM7B adds no magic that I don't already have. I prefer the true response of the RE20. Try a few mics and choose the one that works best with your voice.
Totally agree for me as well :)