Heil Sound PR-40 vs. Electro-Voice RE20 vs. Shure SM7B Comparison! [UPDATED

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.

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.

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

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Who is it for?

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.

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.

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.

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

Pricing

• Shure SM7B: $399
• Electro-Voice RE20: $449
• Heil PR-40: $329

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

• 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)

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.

Final Thoughts

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.