Electro-Voice RE320 vs Samson Q9U
A side-by-side look at Electro-Voice RE320 and Samson Q9U for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Electro-Voice RE320
Variable-D dynamic that killed proximity effect before it was cool
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Check price on Amazon
Samson Q9U
Broadcast dynamic with XLR and USB-C in one body - zero-compromise hybrid
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Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Electro-Voice RE320 | Samson Q9U | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Podcasters and broadcasters who move around while recording and need consistent tonal response from varying distances | Podcasters who want one mic for both USB recording now and XLR interface upgrade later |
Key features
Electro-Voice RE320
- Cardioid dynamic XLR with Variable-D proximity effect control
- Dual-curve frequency switch: general (45 Hz to 18 kHz) and kick (30 Hz to 18 kHz)
- Output impedance 150 ohms balanced
- Humbucking coil for electromagnetic interference rejection
- Neodymium capsule for high sensitivity
- No phantom power required
Samson Q9U
- 24-bit / 96kHz resolution
- Neodymium cardioid dynamic capsule
- Dual output: USB-C and XLR (simultaneous)
- Frequency response: 50Hz - 20kHz
- Onboard low-cut filter and mid-presence boost switches
- Maximum SPL above 140dB
Pros and cons
Electro-Voice RE320
Pros
- Variable-D technology provides consistent tone across mic distances
- Dual-curve switch doubles as a broadcast and instrument mic
- Humbucking coil rejects interference from studio equipment
- Trusted by broadcast engineers and podcast veterans alike
Cons
- Requires a preamp with solid clean gain like most dynamic mics
- Heavier form factor than handheld-style dynamics
- Less brand recognition than Shure or RODE for new buyers
Samson Q9U
Pros
- Simultaneous USB-C and XLR output
- 24-bit/96kHz is excellent for the price point
- Onboard EQ controls provide real sound shaping without software
- Handles very high SPL - will not distort from loud voices
Cons
- Less brand recognition than Shure or Rode
- Cardioid-only dynamic pattern
- Default sound may feel scooped without using the mid-presence switch
The verdict
Choose Electro-Voice RE320 if
Podcasters and broadcasters who move around while recording and need consistent tonal response from varying distances.
The RE320 solves the proximity effect problem in a way most podcasters do not appreciate until they have lived with a mic that does not. Variable-D means your voice sounds consistent whether you are 4 inches or 10 inches from…
Choose Samson Q9U if
Podcasters who want one mic for both USB recording now and XLR interface upgrade later.
The Q9U is a quiet overachiever. The 24-bit/96kHz USB output is better spec'd than the Shure MV7 (original), and the onboard EQ switches - low-cut and mid-presence boost - let you shape the sound without software. The dynamic capsule does…