Heil PR-40 vs. Electro-Voice RE20 vs. Shure SM7B: The Ultimate Broadcast Microphone Comparison

ByObeydul Haque

When it comes to professional broadcast and podcast microphones, three models consistently dominate the conversation: the Heil PR-40, the Electro-Voice RE20, and the Shure SM7B. Each has earned its place in recording studios, radio stations, and podcast setups around the world. But which one truly deserves your investment? This comprehensive comparison will explore the technical specifications, sound characteristics, practical applications, and value proposition of each microphone to help you make an informed decision.

The Contenders: Background and Heritage

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B stands as perhaps the most iconic broadcast microphone in the world. First introduced in 1976 as an evolution of the SM7 (which itself debuted in 1973), this dynamic microphone has been capturing voices for nearly five decades. Most famously, it was used to record Michael Jackson’s vocals on “Thriller,” and its distinctive silhouette can be spotted in countless radio stations, podcasts, and YouTube channels. Shure, founded in 1925, has built a reputation for exceptional build quality and reliability.

Electro-Voice RE20

The Electro-Voice RE20, often referred to simply as “the RE20,” has been the gold standard in radio broadcasting since its introduction in 1968. Recognized for its distinctive “basketball” grille design, this large-diaphragm dynamic microphone was developed specifically for broadcast applications. Electro-Voice, founded in 1927, innovated with the RE20’s Variable-D technology, which minimizes proximity effect – a feature that has made it a broadcast staple for over half a century.

Heil PR-40

The youngest of our contenders, the Heil PR-40 was introduced in 2005 by Heil Sound, a company founded by Bob Heil in 1966. Originally known for creating sound equipment for rock concerts (including for bands like The Who), Heil entered the broadcast microphone market with the PR series, with the PR-40 quickly gaining a reputation as a worthy competitor to the established classics. Despite its relative youth, the PR-40 has rapidly gained popularity in podcasting and broadcasting circles.

Technical Specifications and Design

Frequency Response

  • Shure SM7B: 50Hz-20kHz, with presence boost and bass rolloff options
  • Electro-Voice RE20: 45Hz-18kHz, exceptionally flat frequency response
  • Heil PR-40: 28Hz-18kHz, with presence boost in the upper midrange

The PR-40 boasts the widest frequency response, particularly in the low end, which contributes to its rich, full sound. The RE20 offers the flattest response, meaning it reproduces sounds with minimal coloration. The SM7B, with its switchable EQ options, provides versatility for different voices and applications.

Polar Pattern

All three microphones feature a cardioid polar pattern, meaning they pick up sound primarily from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. However, there are subtle differences:

  • SM7B: Cardioid with excellent off-axis rejection
  • RE20: Cardioid with Variable-D technology (consistent pickup pattern across frequencies)
  • PR-40: Cardioid with tight pattern control

The RE20’s Variable-D technology stands out here, as it maintains consistent frequency response regardless of the speaker’s distance from the microphone. This makes it more forgiving for speakers who tend to move around during recording.

Form Factor and Build

  • SM7B: 7.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, weighing 1.69 lbs (766g)
  • RE20: 8.5 inches long, 2.14 inches diameter, weighing 1.5 lbs (680g)
  • PR-40: 5.5 inches long, 2 inches diameter, weighing 0.85 lbs (385g)

The SM7B features a robust, utilitarian design with an integrated shock mount and pop filter. The RE20 sports the iconic “variable-D” side ports and basketball-like grille. The PR-40, the most compact and lightweight of the three, has a sleek, modern design with a chrome finish and steel body.

Internal Technology

  • SM7B: Air suspension shock isolation, pop filter
  • RE20: Variable-D technology, internal pop filter, internal shock mounting
  • PR-40: Large 1.5″ diaphragm, end-fire design, internal shock mounting

The SM7B and RE20 both use traditional dynamic elements, while the PR-40 utilizes a large diaphragm with neodymium magnets for increased sensitivity and output.

Output Level and Gain Requirements

  • SM7B: -59 dBV/Pa (lowest output, requires significant gain)
  • RE20: -57 dBV/Pa (moderate output)
  • PR-40: -54 dBV/Pa (highest output of the three)

This is a critical difference. The SM7B is notorious for its gain hunger, often requiring a cloudlifter or similar preamp to achieve adequate signal levels. The PR-40 offers the highest sensitivity, making it easier to use with budget interfaces.

Sound Characteristics and Performance

Shure SM7B

The SM7B produces a warm, smooth, and controlled sound that flatters most voices. Its slightly scooped middle frequencies create a broadcast-ready sound out of the box, while the presence boost switch can add brightness and clarity when needed.

Strengths:

  • Extremely natural vocal reproduction
  • Excellent rejection of room noise
  • Versatility through switchable EQ
  • Integrated pop filter performs admirably

Weaknesses:

  • Low output requires substantial gain
  • Can sound thin on some voices without proper placement
  • Less low-end fullness compared to the PR-40

The SM7B excels at creating that classic, intimate radio voice quality, with exceptional ability to control plosives and sibilance. It’s particularly flattering for deeper male voices and handles dynamic range beautifully without distortion.

Electro-Voice RE20

The RE20 is renowned for its incredibly neutral and uncolored sound. It reproduces voices with remarkable accuracy and consistency, regardless of positioning.

Strengths:

  • Most natural, uncolored sound reproduction
  • Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect
  • Consistent sound regardless of mic positioning
  • Excellent handling of bass frequencies without muddiness

Weaknesses:

  • Less “character” than the other microphones
  • Heavier physical design
  • Can sound less “exciting” without external processing

The RE20’s transparent sound makes it ideal for capturing the natural qualities of a voice without imposing its own character. This neutrality makes it versatile across different voice types, though some users may find it lacks the immediate “polish” of its competitors.

Heil PR-40

The PR-40 delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with substantial low-end response and a presence boost that enhances clarity and articulation.

Strengths:

  • Exceptional low-frequency response
  • High output level requires less gain
  • Bright, present upper midrange that cuts through mixes
  • Compact and lightweight design

Weaknesses:

  • Can sound overly bright on some voices
  • More colored sound signature may not suit all applications
  • Less heritage and track record than competitors

The PR-40’s sound is often described as “radio-ready” right out of the box, with an emphasized low end that gives voices authority and presence. It excels at making voices sound big and important, though this coloration may not be ideal for all applications.

Practical Applications

Broadcasting and Radio

For traditional radio broadcasting, the RE20 remains the industry standard due to its natural sound, consistency, and Variable-D technology. The SM7B is also widely used in this setting, particularly where a slightly warmer sound is desired. The PR-40, while gaining popularity, is less common in traditional broadcast environments but is making inroads.

Podcasting

In the podcasting world, all three microphones have strong followings:

  • The SM7B is popular with podcasters prioritizing sound quality and having the necessary supporting equipment (powerful preamps or interfaces).
  • The PR-40 has become a favorite among podcasters who want an immediate “professional sound” without extensive post-processing.
  • The RE20 appeals to podcasters who value accuracy and consistency, especially those who record in acoustically treated spaces.

Voiceover and Vocal Recording

The SM7B often takes the lead for voiceover work due to its versatility and controlled sound. The RE20 is preferred for narration where absolute neutrality is required. The PR-40 finds favor with voice artists who need to project authority and presence, particularly in commercial work.

Instrument Recording

While primarily vocal microphones, all three can capably record instruments:

  • The SM7B excels on guitar cabinets, snare drums, and brass
  • The RE20 is renowned for kick drum, bass cabinets, and brass instruments
  • The PR-40’s extended low-frequency response makes it excellent for capturing low-end instruments

Ease of Use and Setup Requirements

Required Supporting Equipment

  • SM7B: Requires substantial clean gain (typically 60+ dB), often necessitating a Cloudlifter or similar preamp in addition to an audio interface
  • RE20: Requires a decent preamp but is less demanding than the SM7B
  • PR-40: Most forgiving in terms of gain requirements, works well with a wider range of interfaces

Positioning and Technique

  • SM7B: Somewhat forgiving of positioning but benefits from close-miking
  • RE20: Extremely forgiving of positioning due to Variable-D technology
  • PR-40: More sensitive to positioning; requires consistent distance for best results

Acoustic Environment Requirements

  • SM7B: Excellent rejection of room noise makes it suitable for less-than-ideal acoustic environments
  • RE20: Good off-axis rejection but benefits from a treated space
  • PR-40: Most sensitive to room acoustics among the three

Value and Investment Considerations

Price Point (as of February 2025)

These prices typically include basic accessories but exclude shock mounts and pop filters (except for the SM7B, which includes an integrated pop filter).

Additional Costs

  • SM7B: Often requires a Cloudlifter ($149) or equivalent; higher-end audio interface with substantial clean gain
  • RE20: Optional shock mount ($199); benefits from a good preamp
  • PR-40: Optional shock mount ($105) and pop filter ($29)

Longevity and Durability

All three microphones are built to last decades with proper care. The SM7B and RE20 have proven track records spanning 40+ years, while the PR-40, though newer, shows similar build quality.

Making the Decision: Which One Is Right for You?

Choose the Shure SM7B if:

  • You value versatility and need a microphone that can handle various voices and applications
  • You already own a high-quality preamp or interface with substantial clean gain
  • You record in an untreated or less-than-ideal acoustic environment
  • You prefer a warm, controlled sound with switchable EQ options
  • Budget for supporting equipment isn’t a primary concern

Choose the Electro-Voice RE20 if:

  • You value accuracy and consistency above all else
  • You need a microphone that’s forgiving of positioning
  • You prefer a microphone with decades of proven reliability in professional settings
  • You want the most neutral, uncolored sound possible
  • You’re willing to invest in a slightly higher price point for professional results

Choose the Heil PR-40 if:

  • You want a “radio-ready” sound with minimal processing
  • You’re working with a more budget-friendly interface with limited gain
  • You prefer a brighter, more present sound with substantial low-end
  • You value a more compact, lightweight design
  • You want the most affordable option of the three (considering total investment)

Conclusion

The Shure SM7B, Electro-Voice RE20, and Heil PR-40 represent different approaches to broadcast microphone design, each with its own strengths and characteristics. The SM7B offers versatility and controlled warmth, the RE20 provides unmatched neutrality and consistency, and the PR-40 delivers a bold, present sound with an extended low-frequency response.

Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. All three microphones are capable of professional-quality results in the right hands and with appropriate supporting equipment. Many professional studios and broadcasters own all three, selecting the appropriate microphone based on the specific voice and application.

Whichever you choose, these microphones represent investments in quality that will serve you well for decades to come. The best advice might be to audition all three with your own voice if possible, as personal preference and individual vocal characteristics play a significant role in finding your perfect microphone match.

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