Shure SM7B vs Electro-Voice RE20
Compare two professional broadcast dynamic microphones for podcasting, voiceover, and studio speech.
Short winner summary
Shure SM7B for most buyers
The SM7B is the more familiar creator-studio pick, while the RE20 is a serious broadcast alternative for buyers who prefer its workflow and tone.
Shure
Shure SM7BA broadcast-standard dynamic mic for serious voice setups with the right interface and gain.
Electro-Voice
Electro-Voice RE20A professional broadcast dynamic mic for voice setups with serious XLR infrastructure.
Winner by category
| Category | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Creator recognition | Shure SM7B | It is widely associated with podcast and creator studios. |
| Broadcast alternative | Electro-Voice RE20 | It is a respected professional voice microphone with a different handling profile. |
| Beginner setup | Tie | Neither is a beginner plug-and-play mic; both need XLR gear and careful setup. |
Spec comparison
| Spec | Shure SM7B | Electro-Voice RE20 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Connection | XLR | XLR |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Price tier | $$$$ | $$$$ |
| Beginner score | 2/5 | 2/5 |
| Room forgiveness | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Value | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Best for | Podcasting, Voiceover, Broadcast | Broadcast, Podcasting, Voiceover |
Sound and use-case discussion
Creator studio
Shure SM7B
It fits a podcast or voiceover studio built around a classic broadcast dynamic.
Broadcast voice buyer
Electro-Voice RE20
It is a strong alternative for buyers comparing high-end voice dynamics.
Which one should you buy?
Choose the option that best matches your room, connection preference, and tolerance for extra gear. A microphone that fits your workflow will usually outperform a more famous model that creates setup friction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these good first microphones?
Usually not. They are better for buyers ready to build a full XLR setup.
Do they work over USB?
No. Both are XLR microphones.
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Shure SM7B
A broadcast-standard dynamic mic for serious voice setups with the right interface and gain.
Electro-Voice RE20
A professional broadcast dynamic mic for voice setups with serious XLR infrastructure.
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