
( Brand: Electro-voice ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: RE-11 ), ( Part Type: Microphone ), ( Form Factor: Dynamic Microphone ), ( Polar Pattern: Cardioid ), ( Color: Beige ), ( Transducer Type: Dynamic ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The Electro-Voice RE-11 is a professional-grade studio microphone designed for clarity, precision, and versatility in recording environments, making it an indispensable tool for vocalists, podcasters, and audio engineers seeking uncompromising sound quality. Built with a robust, all-metal construction, the RE-11 exudes durability and a sleek, modern aesthetic that reflects its high-end engineering. At its core lies a large-diaphragm dynamic cartridge, engineered to capture the full spectrum of human voice with exceptional detail and warmth, from the subtle nuances of a whispered lyric to the powerful dynamics of a belting vocal. The microphone s cardioid polar pattern ensures a focused capture of sound, minimizing unwanted background noise and ambient interference while maintaining a natural, three-dimensional vocal presence. Its smooth, extended frequency response ranging from 50Hz to 15kHz delivers a rich, balanced tone with minimal coloration, allowing artists to achieve a pristine, studio-ready performance without excessive EQ manipulation. The RE-11 s internal shock mount and rugged metal grille protect the sensitive cartridge from handling noise and physical impact, while the built-in pop filter reduces plosives for a cleaner, more controlled recording experience. Whether used in a home studio, broadcast setting, or professional recording environment, the RE-11 s consistent performance and reliable build quality make it a favorite among vocalists who demand the best. Its compatibility with a wide range of audio interfaces and mixers further enhances its flexibility, ensuring seamless integration into any recording workflow. For those who prioritize sound quality and professional-grade durability, the Electro-Voice RE-11 stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and audio excellence.
The **Electro-Voice RE-11** is a dynamic studio microphone known for its clarity, durability, and professional-grade sound. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Electro-Voice RE-11**
1. **Superior Sound Quality for Vocals and Instruments**
The RE-11 is designed for studio and live use, offering a smooth, natural frequency response that excels in capturing vocals, acoustic guitars, and other mid-range instruments. Its cardioid polar pattern helps reduce background noise and off-axis sound, making it ideal for controlled environments.
2. **Durable and Rugged Construction**
Built with a steel mesh grille and a robust internal structure, the RE-11 is resistant to wear and tear, making it suitable for both studio and live performance use. It can handle high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) levels without distortion, which is beneficial for loud sources like drums or amplifiers.
3. **Low Noise Floor**
As a dynamic microphone, the RE-11 produces minimal self-noise, which is advantageous in quiet recording scenarios where ambient noise could otherwise be amplified.
4. **Versatile Polar Patterns**
The RE-11 features a cardioid pattern by default, but it can be switched to omnidirectional mode (via a switch on the body) for broader sound capture. This flexibility makes it adaptable to different recording situations, such as room tone or ensemble recording.
5. **Professional Build Quality**
The microphone is constructed with high-quality materials, including a metal body and a sturdy shock mount, which helps isolate vibrations and reduce handling noise. The internal components are designed to last for years with minimal maintenance.
6. **Wide Frequency Response**
With a frequency range of 50 Hz to 15,000 Hz, the RE-11 captures a broad spectrum of sound, from deep bass to bright highs, though it is slightly rolled off at the extremes to reduce unwanted resonances.
7. **Compatibility with Various Interfaces**
The RE-11 uses a standard 3-pin XLR connector, making it compatible with most audio interfaces, mixers, and recording setups without the need for additional adapters.
8. **Affordable for Its Class**
Compared to other professional dynamic microphones like the Shure SM7B or Neumann TLM 102, the RE-11 offers excellent value for its performance, making it a cost-effective choice for serious home studios and professionals.
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### **Cons of the Electro-Voice RE-11**
1. **Not Ideal for Ultra-Low Frequencies**
While the RE-11 handles bass well, it lacks the extreme low-end extension of condenser microphones or specialized dynamic mics like the Shure SM57. This can be a limitation when recording sub-bass instruments or deep kick drums, though it is not a major issue for most vocal or mid-range applications.
2. **Requires Proper Placement for Optimal Sound**
Like all microphones, the RE-11 benefits from careful positioning. Placing it too close to the sound source can result in proximity effect (boosted low-end), while moving it too far may reduce clarity. Beginners may need to experiment with placement to achieve the best results.
3. **No Built-in Pop Filter or Windshield**
The RE-11 does not come with a pop filter or windshield, which means users must purchase these accessories separately if recording sources prone to plosives (e.g., vocals) or outdoor sounds.
4. **Limited High-Frequency Extension**
The upper frequencies roll off slightly compared to some condenser microphones, which may not suit applications requiring extreme brightness (e.g., certain vocal styles or cymbals).
5. **No Onboard Controls**
Unlike some microphones (e.g., the Shure SM7B with its built-in pad and low-cut filter), the RE-11 lacks onboard gain or frequency adjustment controls. Users must rely on the preamp settings of their audio interface or mixer for these adjustments.
6. **Slightly Bulkier Than Some Alternatives**
While not overly large, the RE-11 is heavier and more substantial than smaller condenser microphones, which may be a consideration for portability or space constraints in a studio.
7. **No Phantom Power Required**
As a dynamic microphone, the RE-11 does not require phantom power, which is a plus for battery-powered or field recording setups. However, this also means it cannot replicate the extended high-frequency response of condenser mics without additional processing.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Electro-Voice RE-11** is a highly capable dynamic microphone that delivers professional-grade sound quality, durability, and versatility. Its strengths lie in its clarity for vocals and instruments, low noise floor, and adaptability to different recording scenarios. It is particularly well-suited for studio use, live performance, and applications where a clean, natural sound is prioritized over extreme frequency extensions.
However, its limitations such as the lack of ultra-low-frequency response, the need for careful placement, and the absence of onboard controls may make it less ideal for certain specialized applications (e.g., recording deep bass instruments or ultra-bright vocal styles). That said, these drawbacks are minor for most users and do not significantly detract from its overall performance.
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### **Recommendation**
The **Electro-Voice RE-11** is an excellent choice for:- **Home studio vocal recording** (especially for singers with mid-range voices).
- **Acoustic guitar, piano, and other mid-range instrument recording**.
- **Live performance** (e.g., vocalists, acoustic musicians) due to its durability and clear sound.
- **Budget-conscious professionals** who want a high-quality dynamic microphone without the cost of premium brands like Neumann or Sennheiser.
If you are primarily recording vocals or instruments in a controlled environment and prioritize clarity, durability, and value, the RE-11 is a **strong recommendation**. However, if you require extreme low-end response (e.g., for kick drums or sub-bass) or ultra-bright high frequencies, you may want to pair it with a condenser microphone or consider alternatives like the **Shure SM7B** (for vocals) or **Audio-Technica AT4040** (for a more extended frequency response).
For most users, the RE-11 strikes an ideal balance between performance and affordability, making it a reliable workhorse for years to come.
VERY well packed. Smoke Free and well taken care of. This is from My studio back in the 80's. I purchased this RE-11 new and am the original owner.
See photos for best. This RE-11 is great for interviewing and studio use. This RE-11 is in great condition with terrific sound. Great Cardioid pattern, Terrific rear rejection.
Working great but being sold as is.