When it comes to broadcast and voiceover applications, having a reliable and high-quality microphone is crucial for capturing clear and professional-sounding recordings. The Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 are two popular choices among professionals in the industry. In this article, we will compare the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20, highlighting their key features, sonic characteristics, and helping you determine which microphone is best suited for your broadcasting needs.
- Shure SM7B:
- Electro-Voice RE20:
Shure SM7B: The Shure SM7B has gained a stellar reputation in the broadcast and recording industry for its exceptional sound quality and versatility. Here are some key features of the Shure SM7B:
- Sound Quality: The SM7B offers a warm and smooth sound with a focused midrange. It has a flat frequency response, ensuring accurate and transparent audio reproduction. The microphone is designed to handle a wide dynamic range, making it suitable for capturing both soft-spoken voices and loud sources without distortion.
- Pop and Wind Noise Protection: The SM7B features an integrated pop filter and a built-in shock mount, effectively reducing plosive sounds and vibrations caused by handling. This feature is particularly useful for broadcast and voiceover applications where clear and clean vocals are essential.
- Versatility: In addition to broadcasting, the SM7B is also widely used for recording vocals, musical instruments, and podcasting. It offers switchable frequency response settings (flat or bass roll-off) and presence boost, allowing for further customization to match different recording environments and vocal characteristics.
Electro-Voice RE20: The Electro-Voice RE20 is another popular choice among broadcasters and voiceover artists, known for its smooth sound reproduction and excellent off-axis rejection. Here are some key features of the Electro-Voice RE20:
- Sound Quality: The RE20 offers a warm and balanced sound with a slight emphasis on the low-end. It has a carefully tailored frequency response that minimizes proximity effect and delivers a natural and clear audio reproduction. The microphone’s Variable-D technology provides consistent sound quality, even when the talent moves off-axis.
- Off-Axis Rejection: The RE20 excels in off-axis rejection, meaning it effectively rejects sound coming from the sides and rear. This helps minimize unwanted background noise and room reflections, ensuring a clean and focused vocal capture.
- Durability and Build Quality: Built to withstand professional use, the RE20 features a robust construction and a steel grille that protects the internal components. It also incorporates an internal shock mount to reduce handling noise and vibrations.
Choosing the Right Microphone: When deciding between the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20, consider the following factors:
- Sound Preference: Both microphones offer excellent sound quality, but they have different tonal characteristics. The SM7B tends to have a slightly warmer sound, while the RE20 has a more balanced and neutral tonality. Consider the type of voices you will be recording and the desired sonic character you want to achieve.
- Off-Axis Rejection: If you are working in a noisy environment or have limited control over the recording space, the RE20’s superior off-axis rejection might be a crucial factor to consider, as it helps capture a cleaner and more focused sound.
- Budget: Budget is an important consideration when choosing a microphone. The SM7B is typically more affordable than the RE20, which might be a deciding factor for those on a tighter budget.
Both the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 are highly regarded broadcast microphones with their own unique sonic characteristics. The SM7B offers a warm sound with excellent pop and wind noise protection, while the RE20 provides a balanced and neutral sound with exceptional off-axis rejection. Consider your specific recording environment, sound preferences, and budget to determine which microphone aligns best with your broadcasting needs. Regardless of your choice, both the SM7B and RE20 are trusted and reliable options that will deliver professional-grade audio recordings.
