Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (7)
$379.00
Amazon
3.9 (33)
$349.00
Reverb
5.0 (9)
$331.82 New
$171.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (13)
$379.00
B&H
4.7 (21)
$379.00
Thomann
4.7 (12)
$369.00 $368.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $337

High-end/Boutique

$75

$201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Heil PR40". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Embark on a sonic journey with the Heil PR40, a masterpiece born from the genius of Bob Heil. This dynamic microphone stands out in its class, offering an unparalleled response to the rich lows of kick drums, the rumble of bass amps, and the intimate details of vocal performances. Its exceptional rear rejection capability ensures your recordings are insulated from ambient noise, delivering clarity and focus to your tracks. Whether you're laying down thunderous drum beats or seeking that commanding "Voice of God" vocal tone, the PR40 handles it all with grace, ensuring your performances are captured with precision and without distortion. Dive into the depth of your sound with the Heil PR40, where quality meets versatility.

Key Features:

  • Large diaphragm dynamic microphone designed for professional studio recording.
  • Extended frequency response tailored for kick drums, bass amps, and close vocal work.
  • Superior rear rejection for isolating sound in noisy environments.
  • Ideal for achieving deep bass boosts without the risk of popping or plosives.
  • Crafted to withstand high sound pressure levels without distortion.

Product specs

Available since November 2013
On/Off Switch No
Polar Pattern Cardioid

FAQs

What is the primary application of the Heil PR40 microphone?

The Heil PR40 is designed for studio recording, broadcasting, and podcasting, offering a full-frequency response and warm sound that excels in capturing vocals and instruments.

Does the Heil PR40 require phantom power to operate?

No, the Heil PR40 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power, making it easy to use with any standard XLR input.

What is the polar pattern of the Heil PR40 and how does it affect recording?

The Heil PR40 features a cardioid polar pattern, which focuses on sound directly in front of the microphone while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for isolated vocal and instrument recordings.

How does the frequency response of the Heil PR40 affect its sound quality?

The Heil PR40 has a frequency response from 28 Hz to 18 kHz, providing a rich low end and articulate mid-range, which enhances vocal clarity and instrument detail.

Is the Heil PR40 suitable for live performances?

While primarily designed for studio use, the Heil PR40 can be used for live performances, though its studio-focused design may be better suited for controlled environments.

Podcastage

Podcastage

Heil PR-40 Dynamic Mic Review / Test

Video thumbnail for Heil PR-40 Dynamic Mic Review / Test by Podcastage

Heil PR-40 Dynamic Mic Review / Test

Podcastage

Podcastage

Video thumbnail for Best Podcasting Mic? Heil PR40 vs. Rode Procaster by Improve Photography

Best Podcasting Mic? Heil PR40 vs. Rode Procaster

Improve Photography

Improve Photography

Video thumbnail for Heil PR40 Review by Mike Russell

Heil PR40 Review

Mike Russell

Mike Russell

Video thumbnail for The Heil PR40 is a LEGENDARY disappointment... by EposVox

The Heil PR40 is a LEGENDARY disappointment...

EposVox

EposVox

Video thumbnail for LEGENDARY MIC BATTLE | Heil PR40 vs Shure SM7B by Podcast.co

LEGENDARY MIC BATTLE | Heil PR40 vs Shure SM7B

Podcast.co

Podcast.co

Video thumbnail for Heil PR40 Vs SM7B RE320 RE20 Podmic Mic Comparison by Dark Corner Studios

Heil PR40 Vs SM7B RE320 RE20 Podmic Mic Comparison

Dark Corner Studios

Dark Corner Studios

Video thumbnail for HEiL PR-40 Dynamic Broadcast Microphone Review / Test by Audio Hotline

HEiL PR-40 Dynamic Broadcast Microphone Review / Test

Audio Hotline

Audio Hotline

Video thumbnail for Heil PR40 vs Shure SM7B | COMPLETE Microphone Comparison by Kettner Creative

Heil PR40 vs Shure SM7B | COMPLETE Microphone Comparison

Kettner Creative

Kettner Creative

Reviews

PROS

  • Very well built and visually appealing

  • Provides a very faithful and detailed sound

  • Versatile across various applications (amps, kick drums, vocals, overheads)

  • Requires minimal mixing for bass drum use

  • Works well with weaker preamps, offering warmer sound without noise

  • Lower gain requirement than some competitors, reducing noise

  • Excellent for spoken word, akin to a condenser mic in quality

  • Enhances voiceovers and jingles with professional sound quality

  • Accurately captures the true character of instruments with tight low end and solid attack

  • Adaptable in positioning (end and side address) for different sound qualities

CONS

  • Shock mount addition significantly increases price

  • Somewhat susceptible to pop sounds without a specific windscreen/filter

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Heil PR40.

Setup and maintenance

  • Without a cloudlifter or high-gain audio interface, the PR40 may suffer from low input levels and increased floor noise when gain is cranked up.

    Source
  • A minimal podcast setup with the PR40 can effectively utilize a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for multiple inputs and subsequent audio mastering, ensuring professional quality output.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PR40 requires careful setup; using a boom arm and positioning the mic about 4 inches from your mouth optimizes performance.

    Source
  • The PR40's sensitivity is -53.9 dBV, meaning it isn't extremely gain-hungry, allowing flexibility with different interface generations.

    Source
  • While sharing a PR40 between two people, maintaining proximity to the mic is crucial, as distance negatively impacts audio quality, as noted in podcast recordings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Hypercast X can handle high volumes well, with gain set negatively, indicating different setup preferences compared to the PR40.

    Source
  • The 4th Gen Focusrite Scarlett offers more gain while the 3rd Gen has less self-noise, both suitable but with different trade-offs for the PR40.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The PR40 is often chosen by podcasters aiming for a professional broadcaster sound, but requires additional equipment for optimal performance.

    Source
  • Placing the PR40 between two people can work with mic etiquette but requires discipline to maintain quality, as experienced in podcasts with multiple guests.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that the PR40 doesn't automatically enhance voice quality; mic technique and room treatment significantly influence the outcome.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • USB to XLR cords are generally inadequate; a proper interface like Focusrite Scarlett Solo or M-Audio M-Track Solo is recommended for better performance with the PR40.

    Source
  • Users have successfully used Garage Band with the Focusrite 2i2 interface to record and process audio from the PR40, enhancing sound quality with minimal post-processing.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • An owner purchased the PR40 for $200, indicating potential deals below the typical $350 price point.

    Source
  • A package including the PR40, boom arm, shock mount, and pop filter for $369 offers significant savings over individual purchases, providing a cost-effective starting point.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Heil Sound PR-40 Review

recordinghacks.com

The Heil PR40 microphone impresses with its robust build and unexpectedly flat, clear sound profile, distinguishing itself from typical dynamic mics with its rich midrange and unhyped lows and highs. While it doesn't mimic a condenser as claimed, its vintage-like sound is refreshing, making it ideal for vocals and spoken word. Some claims, like being the "quietest microphone," may be exaggerated, and it requires substantial preamp gain. Despite these minor caveats, it offers excellent value, rivaling industry staples like the SM7, RE20, and MD 421.

positive

Heil Sound PR40

soundonsound.com

Boasting versatility and a surprisingly wide frequency range, the Heil PR40 dynamic mic impresses with its robust design and natural sound quality. Ideal for a variety of applications from kick drums to vocals, it rivals more expensive mics like the Electro-Voice RE20 and Sennheiser MD421. Its tight polar pattern ensures great rear rejection, and its smoothness on highs is almost ribbon-like. However, its premium price might deter some buyers. Overall, a remarkable performer in the dynamic mic category.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billy Gibbons uses Heil PR40

Billy Gibbons

Guitarist

ZZ Top

...
Verified via YouTube

According to Billy Gibbons's guitar tech several Heil PR-40 mics are used inside the Demeter Iso cab.

See how Kerry King uses Heil PR40

Kerry King

Guitarist, Composer

Slayer

...
Verified via AMAZONA.de

Screenshot from Kerry Kings Softube Plugin. The picture shows the micing of his live cabs.

See how Jeff Hanneman uses Heil PR40

Jeff Hanneman

Guitarist, Composer

Slayer

...
Verified via ProSoundWeb

"Guitar rigs for Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman have the same treatment: dual Radio [sic] JDX DIs, two PR 40s and two PR 31s."

See how Ariana Grande uses Heil PR40

Ariana Grande

Singer

Victorious Cast

...
Verified via Getty Images

Ariana Grande is confirmed to have used the Heil PR40 microphone during her visit to the SiriusXM Studio in New York City on March 14, 2016, as evidenced by a Getty Images photograph.

See how RJD2 uses Heil PR40

RJD2

Music Producer, DJ

Soul Position

...
Verified via Emusician

"Rjd2 keeps his literal mic setup close to his vest; but less is more is his message, typically employing a Heil PR40 for kick drum, with Beyer M160 and AKG C12 mics for the remaining set."

See how Dave Lombardo uses Heil PR40

Dave Lombardo

Drummer

Slayer

...
Verified via ProSoundWeb

"For Slayer, Quinby notes that “kick drum is the main source for Slayer.” His approach is to outfit drummer Dave Lombardo’s kit with two Shure Beta 91As for the interior and two Heil PR 48s for the exterior of the kick drum. Heil PR 31s (top) and PR 22s (bottom) are the choice for snare, with dual Sennheiser e609s and PR 31s for toms and PR 40s for floor toms."

See how Camila Cabello uses Heil PR40

Camila Cabello

Singer, Composer

Fifth Harmony

...
Verified via Photo

Camila Cabello was photographed using the Heil PR40 microphone at the SiriusXM studios, as evidenced by an image showing her with the equipment.

See how Jamie Humphries uses Heil PR40

Jamie Humphries

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, Jamie Humphries is performing using a Heil PR40 microphone on his amp as confirmed in the video's description.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Heil PR40, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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