Description
Product Overview
The Heil PR 20 UT (Utility) is a versatile dynamic utility microphone engineered to deliver outstanding frequency response, vocal speech clarity, and instrument articulation across live sound reinforcement and studio recording applications. Designed as a significant performance upgrade over traditional industry-standard ball microphones, the PR 20 UT brings Heil Sound’s signature wide dynamic range and linear reproduction to an accessible utility package.
Featuring a large dynamic element with a wide 50 Hz to 18 kHz frequency response, the PR 20 UT handles extreme sound pressure levels up to 145 dB SPL without distortion or mechanical overload. Its tight cardioid polar pattern yields -30 dB of rear noise rejection at 180° off-axis, suppressing ambient stage bleed, drum spill, and monitor feedback. Whether used for lead or backing vocals, snare drums, hi-hats, acoustic instruments, or guitar cabinets, the PR 20 UT serves as an indispensable, durable workhorse microphone for audio engineers, performers, and venues.
Key Features
- Superior Audio Clarity Over Standard Mics: Outperforms traditional handheld ball dynamic microphones with an extended frequency response (50 Hz – 18 kHz) and higher clarity in the mid-to-high frequencies.
- Exceptional Rear Noise Rejection (-30 dB): Cardioid pickup pattern effectively rejects off-axis stage noise at 180°, reducing monitor bleed and allowing higher gain-before-feedback on loud stages.
- High SPL Capacity (145 dB Max SPL): Effortlessly handles high sound pressure levels without clipping or distortion, making it an ideal choice for loud snare drums, percussion, and guitar amplifiers.
- Multi-Purpose Utility Versatility: Excels across a diverse spectrum of sound sources including live stage vocals, snare drums (top or bottom), hi-hats, brass, and electric guitar speaker cabinets.
- Durable All-Metal Construction: Engineered to withstand demanding touring conditions, stage drops, and rigorous live performance environments.
- Passive Dynamic Operation: Connects via standard 3-pin XLR with balanced 600-ohm impedance; requires no phantom power (+48V) or inline preamp boosters.
- Complete Accessories Package Included: Includes a padded zipper carrying case, foam windscreen, and durable black mic clip.
Heil PR 20 UT vs. Heil PR 22 UT Comparison Matrix
| Feature / Specification | Heil PR 20 UT | Heil PR 22 UT |
|---|---|---|
| Internal Capsule Mounting | Standard internal dynamic element mount | Advanced Internal ISO Shock Mount System for maximum handling noise reduction |
| Tonal Character & Voicing | Linear, balanced frequency response with natural warmth across instruments and speech | Slightly elevated upper-midrange presence; extra articulation on handheld vocals and snare stick attack |
| Frequency Response | 50 Hz – 18 kHz | 50 Hz – 18 kHz |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Rear Rejection (@ 180°) | -30 dB | -30 dB |
| Maximum SPL Handling | 145 dB | 145 dB |
| Output Level (@ 1 kHz) | -55 dB | -55 dB |
| Impedance | 600 ohms balanced | 600 ohms balanced |
| Weight | 14 oz (396.8 g) | 14 oz (396.8 g) |
| Primary Applications | General utility instrument miking, guitar cabinets, hi-hats, brass, and stage vocals | Handheld vocals, snare drum, and applications requiring reduced stand or handling vibration |
Product FAQs
Question: What does "UT" stand for in the Heil PR 20 UT?
Answer:
“UT” stands for Utility. The PR 20 UT offers the exact same dynamic element, sound quality, and internal specs as the standard PR 20, but ships in streamlined packaging with core utility accessories (mic clip, foam windscreen, and zipper bag) at a lower price point.
Question: Does the Heil PR 20 UT require phantom power?
Answer: No. The Heil PR 20 UT is a passive dynamic microphone and does not require +48V phantom power. It connects directly into standard XLR audio interfaces, mixing consoles, or microphone preamps.
Question: How does the Heil PR 20 UT compare to standard handheld ball dynamic microphones?
Answer: The PR 20 UT offers an expanded frequency response (50 Hz – 18 kHz), higher mid-range articulation, and superior off-axis rejection (-30 dB at 180°). This results in clearer vocal speech definition and reduced stage bleed from loud drums or guitar amplifiers compared to conventional dynamic mics.
Question: What is the difference between the PR 20 UT and the PR 22 UT?
Answer: The primary distinction is that the PR 22 UT features an advanced internal ISO shock mount system designed to suppress handling noise and stand vibration for handheld vocalists and close-miked snare drums. The PR 20 UT uses a standard internal mount, making it an ideal, cost-effective utility microphone for general stage and instrument miking.
