Whether you’re a podcaster, streamer, or musician, every audio-visual creator needs a high-quality microphone.
Sound quality can make or break a project, so it’s important to have the right equipment.
If you’re looking for a mic that will help you establish your voice, then the Heil PR-40 might be for you.
This review will tell you everything you need to know about the Heil PR-40 Microphone so you can make an informed decision when looking for the perfect mic for your set-up.
First Look
Before we go into the details, let’s discuss what you get when a Heil PR-40 dynamic microphone arrives on your doorstep.
The microphone comes in a black cardboard box with the Heil logo across the front.
Inside, you’ll find the Heil PR-40 Microphone, an instruction manual, a leather pouch, and a Heil logo sticker.
The mic is set on a cardboard plane and wrapped in plastic to protect it from any damage when in transit.
The mic also comes with an attached adjustable mount that can be connected to a desk or boom arm (see also ‘What Is A Mic Boom?‘) for easy use.
All in all, it comes with all the necessary components you need to get started.
Specifications
For those wanting to know the exact specifications of the Heil PR-40 Microphone, they are listed below:
- Product: PR-40
- Output Connection: 3 pin XLR
- Element Type: Dynamic
- Frequency Response: 28 Hz – 18 kHz
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Rear Rejection @ 180 degrees off axis: -40 dB
- Impedance: 600 ohms balanced
- Output Level: -53.9 dB @ 1 kHz
- Weight: 13.5 oz
- Max SPL: 148 dB
In Use
The Heil PR-40 is renowned for its performance with drums, and also works well with other instruments and vocals.
It is also a great mic for podcasters, streamers, and radio DJs.
This dynamic microphone is particularly great for singers, as it has a pop shield to enhance sound quality and is incredibly sensitive to sound distance.
The Heil PR-40’s high-end extends to 18kHz, and it is very versatile, working well with many applications and can be configured to suit your needs.
It delivers a crisp, clean sound and can produce a rich mid-range.
Key Features
Pop Protection
The “popping” sound when recording content or music is the most common problem audio-visual creators face.
Even a seasoned editor finds it very tedious and tiring to remove these noises in post-production.
With the Heil PR-40, you won’t have this problem anymore!
This microphone features a dual mesh screen and an internal breath blast filter, which work together to prevent extra sounds and popping noises from being picked up when recording.
By eliminating these noises, your recording becomes much clearer, producing a clean and distinct sound.
It makes recording much smoother and saves precious editing time. It’s so effective that this mic can even be used during live podcasts and streaming.
Wide Range
The Heil PR-40 Microphone has the widest frequency range in Heil’s PR microphone series.
It has an incredible understanding of phasing during plug placing, and along with its large low mass diaphragm, it is a real competitor for other microphone brands.
The frequency of this mic ranges from 28 Hz to 18 kHz, making it easier for the microphone to pick up loud, strong sounds.
This feature can be used to amplify bass or tom drums for a really powerful sound and better audio quality.
Condenser Vs. Dynamic
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Primary Rating:
3.5
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Primary Rating:
3.5
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$349.00
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$349.00
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Microphones often come in two types – condenser or dynamic.
They are used depending on what type of recording you are doing, such as podcasting or music, as they both have specific design intentions.
Condenser mics are made to pick up delicate sounds around the body of the microphone and can pick up tiny details in audio recording (also see, ‘Best Condenser Mic’).
Condenser microphones are suited to capturing higher frequencies than dynamic microphones.
On the other hand, when it comes to recording loud and strong sounds, a dynamic microphone is the best fit.
They focus on creating the best output with the given input. The Heil PR-40 is a dynamic mic, made primarily for the purpose of live streaming and podcasting.
It is much better for live sessions than recording sessions, but it does have the ability to produce great sound during both.
The microphone also features a cardioid pattern that can focus in on sound from one particular direction.
This feature maximizes the sound quality, providing the best output possible without background noise.
Pros
Studio Quality
User reviews state that the Heil PR-40 is on par with some of the highest-priced broadcasting microphones on the market.
They particularly praised the microphone’s ability to produce natural sounds.
Versatile
The PR-40 dynamic mic has incredible duality.
While it is a dynamic mic and can produce delicate, balanced sounds, it can also produce powerful and vibrant sounds like those of a condenser microphone.
Well-Rounded Sound
This dynamic mic can produce a rich and clear output. It has been commended for its ability to transmit well-rounded and better sound quality.
Mass Diaphragm
The PR-40 has near perfect rear-rejection. This is due to its customized magnet and low mass diaphragm that are built-in.
Wide Range Frequency
The Heil PR-40 has an incredibly wide range, allowing users to record at both high and low frequencies.
It can produce brilliant low frequency sounds with no distortion, works perfectly in the mid-range, and softens high frequencies beautifully.
Dynamic mics like the Heil PR-40 is suited to all kinds of vocal recording.
Brightens
When it comes to podcasting and radio transmitting, this microphone is able to brighten deep and low voice voices to increase sound quality further.
Perfect For Podcasting
The PR-40 can focus in one direction, making it great for live streaming and podcasting.
It brings out the best in conversational vocals, resulting in a clear and crisp voice.
Multipurpose
Other than being an incredible microphone for vocals, the PR-40 can also be used effectively during music recording sessions.
Users have praised its ability to work with different instruments, such as bass, kick drum, piano, and electric guitar.
Eliminates Background Noise
This microphone rejects off-axis noise and effectively reduces popping with its dual mesh dual mesh screen and an internal breath blast filter.
It is a great piece of equipment for completely focused input.
Cons
Acoustic Treatment
Some users have found that they need to apply acoustic treatment to their PR-40 microphone when recording certain instruments and singing vocals.
Price
Heil’s PR-40 mic is higher in price than other microphones, so it might not be an option for some.
However, those who have purchased this microphone have applauded its value for money.
Better For Seasoned Users
Due to its sophistication, the PR-40 microphone is better suited to those who have plenty of experience in sound recording to get the best out of the mic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Heil PR-40 Need A Preamp?
Without the use of preamps or further processing, the Heil PR-40 mic produces sound of professional quality.
It has a large-diameter element that produces a pleasant, natural sound with a broad frequency response.
What’s The Best Position For The Heil PR-40?
To get the distinctive sounds, you must set the dynamic mics about 3 to 4 inches from the soundhole.
Additionally, you’ll discover that the low frequencies are superbly recorded.
Does The Heil PR-40 Need Phantom Power?
The lack of 48V Phantom power in a dynamic microphone is an extra advantage.
The Heil PR-40, which is slightly around PS300, is a great option for podcast production.
What Accessories Should I Get For The Heil PR-40?
Heil offers bundles that include all the accessories you might need for your PR-40 microphone.
Some of the most recommended ones include the Heil Sound PRSMC Shock Mount and the Heil PL2T Microphone Boom Arm.
What Colors Are Available For The Heil PR-40?
The PR 40 is available in chrome, gold, or champagne plating.
Every PR-40 model has a molded foam insert in a padded leatherette pouch along with an adjustable cast metal microphone holder.
Is The PR-40 Better Than USB Microphones?
While USB microphones are a popular choice for podcasters, the sound quality doesn’t come close to an XLR microphone like the PR-40.
It takes slightly more set-up and an XLR lead, however it is worth it when it comes to quality.
Heil PR-40 Microphone Review Summary
The Heil PR-40 Microphone is tasked with providing the optimum output for your live sessions.
It is perfect for any type of audio content, whether it be for streaming or recording.
The Heil Sound PR-40 Microphone is a microphone designed to withstand even the most demanding duties since it has a broader range, an appropriate filter, and a cardioid pattern.
So, for anyone wishing to enhance their setup, we enthusiastically suggest the Heil PR-40 Microphone.
The Heil PR-40 Microphone is available on Amazon here.
