Released in 1968 by Electro-Voice, the RE20 is the broadcast dynamic mic that became famous through Howard Stern’s syndicated radio show. Its unique “Variable-D” design eliminates the proximity effect that boomy-fies most cardioid mics — meaning the RE20 sounds the same close-up or a foot away.
Most directional microphones get bassier the closer you get to them — that’s the “proximity effect.” The RE20’s patented Variable-D design uses multiple ports along the body to pick up bass from different distances, canceling the proximity boom. The result: you can move your head three inches without your voice getting boomy or thin.
That makes the RE20 a favorite of broadcasters who can’t hold perfect distance from a mic for a four-hour show.
The RE20 sounds “normal.” That’s the compliment. It doesn’t add warmth or color the way an SM7B does — it just delivers a clean, well-balanced reproduction of the voice. Many broadcasters prefer that neutrality.