HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPARISON
Electro-Voice RE20 vs Samson Q2U
We compare the Electro-Voice RE20 and Samson Q2U head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Our Pick
Check Price on AmazonElectro-Voice RE20
Scored 8.5/10 in our testing
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Electro-Voice RE20
Broadcast-standard dynamic with Variable-D for zero proximity effect
Overall:8.5/10Winner
Check price on Amazon Best Budget
Samson Q2U
Dual USB/XLR dynamic mic under $70 for budget streamers
Overall:8.3/10
Check price on Amazon Score Breakdown
| Electro-Voice RE20 | Category | Samson Q2U |
|---|---|---|
| 9.8/10 ✓ | Performance | 7.5/10 |
| 8.5/10 ✓ | Features | 8/10 |
| 7.5/10 | Ease of Use | ✓ 8.5/10 |
| 7/10 | Value | ✓ 9.8/10 |
| 8.5/10 ✓ | Overall | 8.3/10 |
Specs Comparison
| Electro-Voice RE20 | Spec | Samson Q2U |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic XLR | Type | Dynamic USB/XLR |
| Variable-D — no proximity effect | Feature | Headphone monitoring jack |
| Cardioid | Pattern | Desktop stand, windscreen, cables |
Electro-Voice RE20
Pros
- + Variable-D — consistent tone at any distance
- + Broadcast studio standard
- + Built to last decades
Cons
- − XLR only — needs interface
- − Heavy and needs a robust boom arm
- − Over $450
Samson Q2U
Pros
- + USB/XLR under $70
- + Headphone monitoring built-in
- + Comes with stand and cables
Cons
- − Needs significant gain — quiet output
- − Plastic construction feels cheap
- − Sound quality trails Shure MV7+
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the Electro-Voice RE20 comes out on top with an overall score of 8.5/10. The RE20 is the microphone on NPR, ESPN, and professional broadcast studios worldwide. Variable-D technology eliminates the boomy proximity effect — your voice sounds the same whether you're 1 inch or 6 inches away. Unmatched for broadcast-quality voice.
Buy the Electro-Voice RE20 on AmazonRead the full Best Dynamic Microphones for Streaming 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 3 products.