The Electro Voice RE20 is one of the most iconic and widely used microphones in the broadcasting and music industries. Its reputation for delivering high-quality sound and durability has made it a favorite among professionals for decades. But when did this legendary microphone first hit the market? In this article, we will delve into the history of the Electro Voice RE20, exploring its release date, design, features, and the significant impact it has had on the audio industry.
Introduction to the Electro Voice RE20
The Electro Voice RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone designed for professional applications such as broadcasting, public speaking, and music recording. It is known for its flat frequency response, which provides an accurate and detailed sound reproduction. The RE20’s design is characterized by its variable-D technology, which helps to minimize the proximity effect and provides a consistent sound quality regardless of the speaker’s distance from the microphone.
Design and Features
The Electro Voice RE20 features a dynamic cartridge with a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to reject background noise and focus on the sound source. Its frequency response ranges from 45 Hz to 15 kHz, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The microphone is also equipped with a built-in pop filter and a windscreen to reduce plosive sounds and wind noise. The RE20’s rugged design and heavy-duty construction make it durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Technical Specifications
The Electro Voice RE20 has the following technical specifications:
The RE20 has a sensitivity of 2.5 mV/Pa, an impedance of 200 ohms, and a maximum SPL of 168 dB. It is also equipped with a standard XLR connector and a switchable bass roll-off to help reduce low-frequency rumble.
Release Date and History
The Electro Voice RE20 was first introduced in 1968 by Electro Voice, a company founded by Al Kahn in 1930. At the time of its release, the RE20 was designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality microphones in the broadcasting and music industries. The microphone’s design was influenced by the company’s earlier models, such as the RE15 and the 664, but it featured several significant improvements, including the variable-D technology and a more compact design.
Impact on the Audio Industry
The Electro Voice RE20 has had a significant impact on the audio industry since its release. Its high-quality sound and durable construction have made it a favorite among professionals in the broadcasting, music, and public speaking industries. The RE20 has been used by numerous famous radio and television personalities, including Rush Limbaugh and Howard Stern. It has also been used in various music applications, including live performances and recording studios.
Notable Users
Some notable users of the Electro Voice RE20 include:
- Rush Limbaugh, American radio personality
- Howard Stern, American radio and television personality
- NPR, American public radio network
- ABC, American television network
- CBS, American television network
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Electro Voice RE20 is a legendary microphone that has been a staple in the audio industry for decades. Its high-quality sound, durable construction, and versatile design have made it a favorite among professionals in the broadcasting, music, and public speaking industries. The RE20 was first introduced in 1968 and has since become one of the most widely used microphones in the world. Its impact on the audio industry has been significant, and it continues to be used by professionals and amateurs alike. Whether you are a radio personality, a musician, or a public speaker, the Electro Voice RE20 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone that can deliver exceptional sound and durability.
What is the Electro Voice RE20 and its significance in the audio industry?
The Electro Voice RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone that has been a staple in the audio industry for decades. It is known for its clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it a popular choice among broadcasters, podcasters, and musicians. The RE20’s unique design and features, such as its variable-D technology and large diaphragm, allow it to capture a wide range of frequencies with exceptional accuracy and clarity. This has made it a go-to microphone for many professionals in the industry, from radio and television broadcasting to live performances and recording studios.
The significance of the Electro Voice RE20 lies in its ability to deliver high-quality sound in a variety of applications. Its durability and reliability have also made it a favorite among audio engineers and technicians, who appreciate its ability to withstand the rigors of heavy use. The RE20 has been used by many famous broadcasters and musicians, and its sound has become synonymous with professional-grade audio. As a result, the RE20 has had a lasting impact on the audio industry, and its influence can still be heard in many modern microphones and audio systems. Its legendary status has also made it a sought-after microphone among collectors and enthusiasts, who appreciate its rich history and cultural significance.
When was the Electro Voice RE20 first released and what were the circumstances surrounding its development?
The Electro Voice RE20 was first released in 1968, a time of great innovation and change in the audio industry. The microphone was developed by a team of engineers at Electro Voice, led by the company’s founder, Al Kahn. The team’s goal was to create a microphone that could deliver high-quality sound in a variety of applications, from broadcasting to live performances. They achieved this by using a unique combination of technologies, including variable-D and a large diaphragm, which allowed the microphone to capture a wide range of frequencies with exceptional accuracy and clarity.
The development of the RE20 was a response to the growing demand for high-quality audio equipment in the 1960s. The rise of rock and roll and other popular music genres had created a need for microphones that could capture the energy and excitement of live performances. The RE20 was designed to meet this need, and its release coincided with the emergence of many famous rock and roll bands. The microphone’s popularity quickly grew, and it became a staple in many recording studios and live venues. Today, the RE20 is still widely used, and its influence can be heard in many modern microphones and audio systems.
What are the key features of the Electro Voice RE20 that make it so popular among audio professionals?
The Electro Voice RE20 has several key features that make it a popular choice among audio professionals. One of its most notable features is its variable-D technology, which allows the microphone to capture a wide range of frequencies with exceptional accuracy and clarity. The RE20 also has a large diaphragm, which gives it a warm and detailed sound. Additionally, the microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to reject background noise and focus on the sound source. These features, combined with its durable and reliable design, make the RE20 a versatile and high-quality microphone that can be used in a variety of applications.
The RE20’s popularity can also be attributed to its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it a great choice for loud applications such as live performances and broadcasting. Its bass response is also exceptional, with a frequency response of 45 Hz to 15 kHz, which makes it ideal for capturing deep and rich sounds. The microphone’s grille and windscreen design also help to reduce plosive sounds and prevent distortion, making it a great choice for vocal applications. Overall, the RE20’s unique combination of features and technologies has made it a legendary microphone that is still widely used today.
How has the Electro Voice RE20 impacted the music industry and what are some notable examples of its use?
The Electro Voice RE20 has had a significant impact on the music industry, and its influence can be heard in many genres of music. The microphone has been used by many famous musicians, including rock and roll legends such as Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones. It has also been used in many famous recording studios, including Abbey Road and Sun Studio. The RE20’s warm and detailed sound has made it a popular choice for capturing vocals and instruments, and its durability and reliability have made it a staple in many live venues.
The RE20 has been used in many notable recordings, including Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” and The Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main St.”. It has also been used by many famous broadcasters, including news anchors and talk show hosts. The microphone’s ability to capture high-quality sound in a variety of applications has made it a versatile and essential tool in the music industry. Its influence can still be heard today, and it continues to be used by many musicians and audio professionals around the world. The RE20’s legendary status has also made it a sought-after microphone among collectors and enthusiasts, who appreciate its rich history and cultural significance.
What are some common applications of the Electro Voice RE20 in the audio industry?
The Electro Voice RE20 is a versatile microphone that can be used in a variety of applications, including broadcasting, live performances, and recording studios. It is commonly used for capturing vocals, instruments, and other sound sources, and its warm and detailed sound makes it a popular choice for many audio professionals. The RE20 is also often used for voice-overs, podcasts, and other spoken word applications, where its ability to capture clear and detailed sound is essential.
The RE20’s durability and reliability also make it a great choice for live performances, where it can withstand the rigors of heavy use. It is often used for capturing vocals and instruments in live venues, and its ability to handle high sound pressure levels makes it a great choice for loud applications. In recording studios, the RE20 is often used for capturing vocals, drums, and other instruments, and its warm and detailed sound makes it a popular choice for many producers and engineers. Overall, the RE20’s versatility and high-quality sound make it a staple in many areas of the audio industry.
How does the Electro Voice RE20 compare to other microphones on the market, and what sets it apart from the competition?
The Electro Voice RE20 is a unique microphone that sets itself apart from the competition with its warm and detailed sound, durability, and reliability. Compared to other microphones on the market, the RE20 has a distinct sound that is often described as warm and rich, with a focus on the mid-range frequencies. Its variable-D technology and large diaphragm also give it a unique sound that is well-suited to capturing vocals and instruments. The RE20’s durability and reliability also make it a great choice for live performances and heavy use, where other microphones may not be able to withstand the rigors of constant use.
The RE20’s legendary status and rich history also set it apart from the competition. It has been used by many famous musicians and audio professionals, and its influence can still be heard in many modern microphones and audio systems. The RE20’s price point is also relatively high compared to other microphones on the market, but its high-quality sound and durability make it a worthwhile investment for many audio professionals. Overall, the RE20 is a unique and essential tool in the audio industry, and its combination of sound quality, durability, and reliability make it a staple in many areas of the industry.
What is the current status of the Electro Voice RE20, and is it still widely used in the audio industry today?
The Electro Voice RE20 is still widely used in the audio industry today, and its legendary status has made it a sought-after microphone among collectors and enthusiasts. The microphone is still manufactured by Electro Voice, and it is available for purchase from many audio equipment retailers. The RE20’s durability and reliability have also made it a great choice for many audio professionals, who appreciate its ability to withstand the rigors of heavy use. The microphone’s warm and detailed sound has also made it a popular choice for many applications, including broadcasting, live performances, and recording studios.
The RE20’s influence can still be heard in many modern microphones and audio systems, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of audio professionals. Many modern microphones have been designed to emulate the RE20’s sound, and its variable-D technology and large diaphragm have become standard features in many high-end microphones. The RE20’s current status is a testament to its enduring quality and relevance, and it remains a staple in many areas of the audio industry. Its legendary status has also made it a cultural icon, and it continues to be celebrated by audio enthusiasts and professionals around the world.