The Complete Guide to Electro Voice Mics

Electro-Voice microphones have earned their reputation as industry workhorses through decades of reliable performance in professional recording, live sound, and broadcast applications. From legendary dynamic microphones beloved by rock vocalists to precision condenser models sought by studio engineers, Electro-Voice (EV) offers a comprehensive range of microphones suitable for virtually any professional audio application. Whether you're recording vocals, capturing drums, reinforcing a live event, or setting up a broadcast studio, Electro-Voice mics deliver dependable, professional-grade sound quality.

Electro-Voice's Heritage and Reputation

Founded in 1927, Electro-Voice has maintained an impressive track record of microphone innovation and reliability. The company's microphones have equipped professional studios, concert venues, and broadcast facilities worldwide for nearly a century. This longevity reflects genuine product quality and industry respect—Electro-Voice mics continue appearing on album credits, live concert riders, and professional production setups globally.

The brand's reputation rests partly on its ability to balance affordability with professional-grade sound quality. Unlike boutique microphone manufacturers commanding premium prices, Electro-Voice delivers solid engineering and reliable performance at accessible price points, making professional-quality mics available to mid-level studios and serious musicians who might otherwise struggle with high-end alternatives.

Popular Electro-Voice Microphone Models

Several Electro-Voice models have become industry standards within their respective categories:

• RE20 — A dynamic cardioid microphone legendary for broadcast and studio drum recording. Its large diaphragm and presence peak deliver articulate, punchy sound ideal for kick drums and bass guitar amplifiers. Professional studios worldwide maintain RE20s as essential kit.
• SM7B Competitor — Electro-Voice's answer to the Shure SM7B, offering comparable broadcast microphone performance at potentially lower cost. Used extensively in podcast studios and broadcast facilities.
• ND86 — A professional condenser vocal microphone delivering warm, presence-enhanced sound suitable for lead vocals in commercial recording contexts.
• PL95 — A dynamic cardioid microphone popular for live vocal reinforcement, offering feedback rejection and reliable off-axis response.
• N/DYM8 — A budget-friendly dynamic microphone suitable for live reinforcement and education environments where cost considerations matter.
• RE45N — An omnidirectional condenser microphone employed in lavalier applications, broadcast interviews, and boundary microphone setups.

Sound Characteristics of Electro-Voice Mics

Electro-Voice microphones typically feature presence peaks in the 2–5 kHz range, imparting articulate, intelligible sound particularly valued for vocals and speech. This character makes EV mics particularly suitable for broadcast, live vocal applications, and detailed instrumental recording where intelligibility matters. The brand's dynamic models deliver robust, punchy sound without excessive proximity effect, whilst their condenser offerings provide extended high-frequency response ideal for capturing brightness and detail.

Professional Applications for EV Microphones

Electro-Voice microphones excel in numerous professional contexts:

• Live Sound Reinforcement — The RE20 and ND86 appear on countless live concert riders, trusted by touring professionals for reliable feedback rejection and punchy stage sound.
• Broadcast and Podcast — Electro-Voice condenser models remain broadcast standards, delivering intelligible, detailed sound for interview, narration, and programme production.
• Studio Recording — Professional studios maintain EV mics for drum recording (particularly kick drums via the RE20), bass guitar amplifier miking, and room ambience capture.
• Education and Training — Budget-friendly Electro-Voice models appear throughout education settings, training facilities, and community venues where affordability and durability matter.
• Instrument Amplifier Miking — Electro-Voice dynamics excel at capturing guitar, bass, and keyboard amplifier sound with articulate, controlled response.

Electro-Voice versus Competing Brands

Shure dominates microphone market share globally, with models like the SM7B and SM58 representing familiar industry standards. Electro-Voice competes by offering comparable performance at occasionally lower prices, plus distinctive sonic character that appeals to engineers preferring EV's particular tonal approach. Neumann represents the luxury studio condenser standard, with prices and prestige exceeding Electro-Voice's more accessible positioning. Rode and other contemporary manufacturers offer innovative features at competitive prices, though established professionals often maintain preferences for Electro-Voice's proven reliability.

Durability and Build Quality

Electro-Voice microphones are renowned for robust construction designed to withstand years of professional use. Dynamic models feature hardened diaphragms and protective grilles. Condenser models employ precision mechanical construction and quality electronic components. This durability means a used Electro-Voice microphone often represents excellent value—a decade-old RE20 remains fully functional and sonically relevant, unlike some electronic equipment with limited serviceable lifespans.

Price-to-Performance Value

Electro-Voice microphones typically retail between £100 and £500 depending on model type and professional application. This pricing positions EV favourably for budget-conscious professionals and mid-size studios unable to justify four-figure Neumann investments. Secondary markets frequently offer used Electro-Voice mics at further discounts, providing remarkable value for serious musicians and small recording operations.

Integration with Professional Equipment

Electro-Voice microphones connect via standard XLR connectors and operate with any professional microphone preamp, mixer, or audio interface. Their impedance characteristics and output levels conform to professional audio standards, ensuring seamless integration into existing rigs without adapters or unusual technical considerations.

The Bottom Line

Electro-Voice microphones represent a reliable, professional choice for recording studios, live sound reinforcement, and broadcast applications worldwide. Their balance of affordability, proven durability, and distinctive sonic character makes them compelling options when assembling a microphone collection. Whether you're recording vocals, capturing drums, or setting up a live venue, Electro-Voice delivers the professional quality and reliability that justified the brand's nearly century-long prominence in professional audio.

Frequently Asked Questions