Electro-Voice RE20-BLACK Dynamic Broadcast Announcer Microphone

Introduction

The RE20 dynamic cardioid microphone is truly an industry standard, a firm favorite for broadcasting, podcasting, and sound engineering worldwide. Its popularity also extends into music production as a premium grade instrument microphone. Its Variable-D design and heavy-duty internal pop filter excel for close-in voice work, while an internal element shock-mount reduces vibration-induced noise.

Key Features

• The classic sound of FM radio voices
• Smooth, natural and controlled sonic character
• Variable-D for minimal proximity effect
• True cardioid with no coloration at 180-degrees off-axis
• Voice tailored frequency response

What's in the Box

• Electro-Voice RE20-BLACK Dynamic Broadcast Announcer Microphone

Note: Additional accessories such as shock mounts, boom arms, and XLR cables are sold separately and are often necessary for optimal performance.

Setup

1. Mounting the Microphone: Secure the RE20-BLACK microphone to a compatible microphone stand or boom arm using the provided stand clip or an optional shock mount (e.g., Electro-Voice PRSM-B). Ensure the microphone is firmly attached to prevent accidental drops.
2. Connecting the XLR Cable: Connect one end of a high-quality XLR cable to the XLR output connector at the base of the RE20-BLACK microphone. Connect the other end of the XLR cable to an audio interface or mixer with a built-in preamp. The RE20 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power.
3. Audio Interface/Preamp Setup: Ensure your audio interface or mixer's preamp gain is set appropriately. Dynamic microphones like the RE20 often require substantial gain to achieve optimal signal levels. Adjust the gain until you reach a healthy signal without clipping.
4. Microphone Placement: For vocal applications, position the microphone approximately 6 to 12 inches from the sound source. Experiment with slight off-axis positioning to minimize plosives (harsh 'p' and 'b' sounds) and achieve your desired tonal quality.

Operating Instructions

1. Variable-D Feature: The RE20 features Electro-Voice's exclusive Variable-D design, which minimizes the proximity effect. This means your voice won't get excessively bassy as you move closer to the microphone, maintaining a consistent tonal balance.
2. Mid-Bass Tone Shaping Switch: The microphone includes a mid-bass tone shaping switch located on the body. This switch allows you to tailor the low-frequency response to suit different voices or instruments. Experiment with this switch to find the setting that best complements your audio source.
3. Internal Pop Filter: The RE20 has a heavy-duty internal pop filter designed to reduce plosives. While an external pop filter is generally not required, slight off-axis placement can further enhance plosive control.
4. Shock Mount: The internal element shock-mount helps to reduce vibration-induced noise, ensuring a cleaner recording.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the microphone. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
• Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in its protective case to prevent dust accumulation and physical damage.
• Handling: Handle the microphone with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to harsh impacts, as this can affect its performance and durability.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Check all XLR cable connections. Ensure the audio interface/mixer is powered on and the input gain is sufficiently high. Confirm the correct input is selected on your recording device.
• Distorted Sound: Reduce the input gain on your audio interface/mixer. Ensure the microphone is not too close to the sound source, causing excessive input levels.
• Excessive Bass/Muddiness: Experiment with the mid-bass tone shaping switch on the microphone. Adjust microphone placement, moving it slightly further from the sound source if necessary.
• Plosives (P-pops): Adjust microphone placement to be slightly off-axis from the mouth. The internal pop filter should minimize most plosives, but extreme cases may benefit from minor adjustments.
• Hum/Noise: Ensure all cables are securely connected. Try using a different XLR cable. Check for ground loops in your audio setup.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Electro-Voice RE20-BLACK Dynamic Broadcast Announcer Microphone comes with a 3-year warranty. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please visit the official Electro-Voice website or contact their customer service department.

Product Images

Official Product Videos