Heil PR 40 Review: The Gold Standard for Broadcast and Podcast Audio In 2025

In the world of professional audio recording, few microphones have achieved the legendary status of the Heil PR 40. For over 15 years, this dynamic microphone has remained a staple in broadcast studios, podcast setups, and voice-over booths across the globe. In this complete review, we’ll examine why the PR 40 continues to dominate the industry, analyze its technical specifications, assess its performance in various recording environments, and determine whether it still deserves its reputation as the gold standard for broadcast-quality voice recording in 2025.

The Heil Sound Legacy

Before diving into the PR 40 review itself, it’s worth acknowledging the man behind the microphone. Bob Heil, founder of Heil Sound, built his reputation initially in the music industry, creating sound systems for bands like The Grateful Dead and The Who. His transition to broadcast microphones came from his own experience as a ham radio operator, where he recognized the need for microphones specifically designed for the human voice.

Unlike many microphone manufacturers who simply adapted instrument mics for vocal applications, Heil designed the PR (Professional Radio) series from the ground up with spoken word as the primary focus. This philosophy explains much of what makes the PR 40 special, as we’ll explore throughout this review.

Heil PR 40 Technical Specifications and Design

Key Specifications

Type: Dynamic microphone with large diaphragm
Frequency Response: 28Hz to 18kHz
Impedance: 600 ohms balanced
Output Level: -53.9 dB @ 1,000 Hz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Weight: 13.5 oz (382g)
Dimensions: 7.5″ (191mm) in length, 2″ (51mm) in diameter

Heil PR 40 Physical Design and Build Quality

The Heil PR 40 presents itself as a substantial piece of equipment. Its heft immediately communicates professional-grade build quality, while the champagne finish (also available in matte black) gives it a distinctive appearance that stands out in studio environments. The microphone features a steel body with a copper-wound dynamic element, providing excellent internal shock isolation.

Inside the PR 40 is where the true engineering marvel lies. Unlike most dynamic microphones that use a traditional single-magnet structure, the PR 40 utilizes a unique dual magnet structure surrounding a large aluminum diaphragm. This design contributes to the microphone’s exceptional sensitivity and frequency response, which we’ll discuss in the performance section.

The microphone ships with a leatherette carrying pouch and a mic clip, though most users will want to invest in the separately sold SM-2 shock mount or PL-2T boom mount for optimal performance.

Heil PR 40 Performance Analysis

Heil PR 40 Frequency Response

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the PR 40 is its frequency response. While most dynamic microphones struggle to capture frequencies below 70-80Hz or above 12kHz, the PR 40 boasts an impressive range from 28Hz to 18kHz. This extended frequency range is usually found only in much more expensive condenser microphones.

The low-end response deserves special mention. The PR 40’s ability to capture frequencies down to 28Hz provides a rich, full-bodied reproduction of male voices that few competitors can match. However, this isn’t achieved through artificial bass boosting—the response remains relatively flat throughout the crucial vocal frequencies, delivering natural warmth rather than muddy exaggeration.

At the same time, the high-frequency extension to 18kHz ensures clarity and presence that’s rare in dynamic microphones. This balanced response makes the PR 40 uniquely versatile for different voice types and recording applications.

Heil PR 40 Off-Axis Rejection

PR 40’s strongest features are its exceptional rear and side rejection. The cardioid polar pattern is engineered to be extremely tight, rejecting sounds from the rear and sides with remarkable efficiency. This makes it ideal for less-than-perfect acoustic environments, as it effectively minimizes room reflections and background noise.

The PR 40 achieves this through Heil’s proprietary technology that combines the dual magnet structure with carefully designed ports in the microphone body. These ports create precise phase cancellation for sounds arriving from off-axis directions while maintaining sensitivity to on-axis sound.

For broadcast and podcast applications, this means cleaner recordings with less need for acoustic treatment and noise reduction in post-production.

Heil PR 40 Proximity Effect Management

Many dynamic microphones exhibit pronounced proximity effects—the artificial bass boost that occurs when a speaker gets very close to the microphone. While this can sometimes be desirable for creating that “radio voice” sound, excessive proximity effect can lead to boomy, muddy recordings.

The PR 40 managesthe proximity effect better than most competitors. It still exhibits some bass enhancement at close distances, providing that sought-after broadcast warmth, but it doesn’t become overwhelming or unmanageable. This allows for versatility in microphone technique, letting performers adjust their distance from the microphone to achieve different tonal characteristics without sacrificing clarity.

Heil PR 40 Handling Noise and Plosives

Despite its sensitivity, the PR 40 performs admirably in terms of handling noise and resistance to plosives (those explosive “p” and “b” sounds). The internal shock mounting system effectively isolates the capsule from vibrations transferred through the microphone stand or boom arm.

That said, like any quality broadcast microphone, the PR 40 still benefits from proper accessories. A good shock mount further reduces handling noise, and a pop filter helps tame plosives for close-miking applications. These aren’t criticisms of the microphone itself but rather standard practice for professional voice recording.

Real-World Applications

Broadcast and Radio

The PR 40 was designed primarily for broadcast applications, and this remains its strongest use case. In radio studios, the microphone’s combination of rich low-end response, clarity, and off-axis rejection creates that instantly recognizable “broadcast quality” sound that listeners associate with professional productions.

For radio hosts who need to work close to their microphone while reading scripts or interacting with control room staff, the PR 40’s predictable proximity effect and resistance to plosives make it especially valuable.

Podcasting

The podcasting boom has introduced a new generation to the PR 40, with many top podcasters adopting it as their microphone of choice. For podcast studios, the PR 40 offers several advantages:

It’s forgiving of less-than-perfect acoustic environments, crucial for podcasters recording outside professional studios.
Its natural sound requires minimal post-processing, streamlining production workflows.
The durability means it can withstand the rigors of portable recording setups and frequent handling.

The PR 40’s only potential drawback for beginning podcasters is its gain requirements. As a dynamic microphone, it requires more gain than condenser alternatives, necessitating a quality preamp or audio interface capable of providing clean amplification.

Voice-Over Work

Professional voice actors have increasingly adopted the PR 40 for commercial work, narration, and animation. The microphone’s flat response in the critical midrange frequencies preserves the natural character of the voice, while its extended highs provide the presence and articulation needed for clear delivery.

For voice-over applications requiring different tonal characteristics, the PR 40’s manageable proximity effect allows performers to adjust their technique to achieve various sounds from a single microphone.

Musical Applications

While primarily designed for spoken word, the PR 40 has found applications in music recording as well. Its extended low-frequency response makes it excellent for kick drums, bass cabinets, and brass instruments. Some engineers also favor it for capturing the lower registers of acoustic guitars or as a room microphone for drum kits.

However, for vocal music, particularly in genres requiring delicate high-frequency detail, dedicated vocal condensers might still be preferred over the PR 40.

Heil PR 40 Comparisons with Competitors

Heil PR 40 vs. Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B is perhaps the PR 40’s most direct competitor, with both microphones being dynamic broadcast favorites. The SM7B has a slightly more sculpted sound with its presence boost, while the PR 40 offers a flatter, more extended frequency response—particularly in the low end.

The PR 40 typically requires less gain than the SM7B, making it easier to use with modest audio interfaces. However, the SM7B includes built-in pop filtering and switchable frequency response curves that the PR 40 lacks.

Heil PR 40 vs. Electro-Voice RE20

Another broadcast standard, the Electro-Voice RE20, competes directly with the PR 40. The RE20’s Variable-D technology provides more consistent bass response regardless of speaking distance, which some broadcasters prefer. However, the PR 40 typically offers more presence and articulation in the upper midrange and high frequencies.

The RE20 is physically larger and heavier than the PR 40, which may be a consideration for certain mounting situations.

Heil PR 40 vs Røde Podmic

At a lower price point, the Røde Podmic has emerged as a popular alternative for budget-conscious podcasters. While it doesn’t match the PR 40’s extended frequency response or build quality, it offers similar off-axis rejection and a broadcast-ready sound at roughly one-third the price.

The PR 40 justifies its higher cost through superior durability, more refined sound quality, and better performance in critical recording applications.

Heil PR 40 Value Assessment

With a retail price typically around $399, the Heil PR 40 sits in the mid-to-high range for dynamic broadcast microphones. This represents a significant investment for hobbyists but is quite reasonable for professionals when compared to high-end condenser alternatives that can cost several times more.

The value proposition becomes clearer when considering longevity. Many PR 40 users report using the same microphone for 10+ years without any degradation in performance. The robust construction and lack of fragile electronic components (compared to condenser microphones) contribute to this exceptional lifespan.

For professional broadcasters, podcasters, and voice-over artists, the PR 40’s combination of sound quality, durability, and performance consistency makes it a worthwhile investment that typically pays for itself through reduced need for post-processing and fewer replacement costs over time.

Conclusion

After thoroughly testing and comparing with competitors, the Heil PR 40 continues to justify its reputation as one of the finest broadcast dynamic microphones. Its exceptional combination of extended frequency response, off-axis rejection, and build quality make it a standout choice for voice applications demanding the highest quality.

Pros:

Exceptional frequency response for a dynamic microphone
Superior off-axis rejection for clean recordings in imperfect environments
Robust construction ensures longevity
Naturally flattering to the human voice with minimal processing required
Versatile enough for various voice types and recording techniques

Cons:

Requires proper gain staging and a quality preamp for optimal results
Higher price point than entry-level alternatives
Accessories like shock mounts sold separately
May pick up excessive low end in untreated rooms due to extended bass response

Who Should Buy the Heil PR 40?

The PR 40 represents an excellent investment for:

Professional broadcasters and radio personalities
Serious podcasters looking to upgrade from entry-level equipment
Voice-over artists require consistent, high-quality recordings
Recording studios need a versatile, dynamic microphone for various applications

For beginners just entering the field, the investment might seem steep, but the PR 40 is one of those rare pieces of equipment that you’ll never outgrow—it will continue to deliver professional results as your skills and other equipment improve around it.