Sound Pure's Take

The Electro-Voice PL20 is an iconic broadcast dynamic microphone that shares the exact same internal transducer architecture and sonic DNA as the world-famous EV RE20. Released as part of Electro-Voice’s Pro-Line series, the PL20 features a distinct matte gray finish while delivering the same flat, condenser-like frequency response and indestructible build quality that made its sibling an industry standard.

The core strength of the PL20 lies in Electro-Voice’s patented Variable-D® technology. By venting low frequencies through multiple ports along the length of the microphone body, the PL20 virtually eliminates proximity effect. This allows vocalists, voice actors, and instrumentalists to move naturally in front of the capsule without experiencing muddy bass buildup or sudden tonal shifts.

This microphone has a dent in the headbasket. It comes with a leather pouch but the zipper is broken on that pouch.

From Electro-Voice

The Electro-Voice PL20 is a professional broadcast-grade dynamic cardioid microphone engineered for critical voice-over, studio tracking, and high-SPL sound reinforcement. Built as part of Electro-Voice's celebrated Pro-Line series, the PL20 utilizes the exact same acoustic design and internal transducer technology as the legendary EV RE20, delivering a smooth, flat frequency response with unmatched tonal consistency across varying working distances.

At the heart of the PL20 is Electro-Voice's patented Variable-D® (Variable Distance) technology. By utilizing multiple sonic ports along the microphone body, Variable-D virtually eliminates proximity effect—the heavy, muddy bass boost that occurs when speaking or singing close to a standard directional microphone. Coupled with a heavy-duty steel body, an internal hum-bucking coil to cancel electro-magnetic interference, and a multi-stage integral blast filter, the PL20 delivers studio condenser-like accuracy with rugged dynamic durability.

Key Features

  • Patented Variable-D® Technology: Eliminates proximity-induced bass buildup, maintaining a natural, uniform frequency response regardless of mic-to-source distance or off-axis movement.

  • Studio Condenser-Quality Response: Exceptionally flat, wide-range frequency curve tailored for voice clarity, broadcast, kick drum, bass cabinets, and brass instruments.

  • Internal Hum-Bucking Coil: Neutralizes hum and hum-field interference caused by bad wiring, stage lighting, and nearby power transformers.

  • Multi-Stage Internal Pop Filter: Built-in acoustic foam and physical baffles suppress vocal plosives and breath noise without requiring an external pop shield.

  • Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: Encased in a durable, non-reflective matte-finish steel body designed to withstand harsh studio and touring environments.

Element Type
Dynamic
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
$45\text{ Hz to } 18,000\text{ Hz}$
Impedance
$150\ \Omega$ (balanced)
Output Level (at $1\text{ kHz}$)
$-57\text{ dB}$ ($0\text{ dB} = 1\text{ mW/10 dynes/cm}^2$)
Magnet Material
N/INDYM / Alnico V
Case Material
Machined Steel
Finish
Non-Reflective Pro-Line Matte Gray
Connector
3-pin XLR male
Dimensions
$216.7\text{ mm}$ length $\times 54\text{ mm}$ maximum diameter ($8.53" \times 2.13"$)
Weight
$737\text{ g}$ ($26\text{ oz}$)
Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.

$274