Denver Recording Studio

Ribbon mics are some of the most precise microphones available. Adding this high level of microphone to CCM Studios gives you the client access to the best gear at the most affordable prices.

Anyone who has used ribbon microphones knows how different they sound from condenser mics. Audio Engineering Associates’ new R84 mic, a smaller “close-up” cousin of the classic R44, built with the same large ribbon geometry - sounds like a classic RCA ribbon mic, only better in many applications. Its smooth high end gradually drops about 5 dB from 200 Hz to 20,000 Hz, giving it the typical “mellow” ribbon sound, while its 2-inch long, 2-micron thick aluminum ribbon gives it amazingly accurate transient response.

The contrast in sound quality between the smoothness of ribbon mics and the aggressiveness of condenser models has a lot to do with how their diaphragms are tensioned. A ribbon is clamped at each end and tensioned lightly - producing a resonant frequency at 50 Hz or below, while condenser mic diaphragms are tensioned and clamped all around the perimeter, which typically results in a series of high-Q resonances between 8 kHz and 12 kHz. Condenser mic designers exploit these peaks to produce the “airiness” and “aggressiveness” typical of the genre, while ribbon mic designers focus on their genre’s smooth and natural high and low ends, and excellent transient response.
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If you are new to ribbons, you are in for a treat! The AEA R84 Ribbon Microphone is an outstanding general-purpose microphone, ideally suited for solo and accent work. It is hard to find an application where the R84 mic does not shine. Its natural sound and figure-8 directional sensitivity mean the R84 gives you everything professionals expect from a quality ribbon mic.

• Pure natural sound with quick, smooth transients, just as you hear it when you place your mic in the studio
• Versatility that lets you capture brass instruments, strings, piano, percussion or vocals
• Extended bass and treble that handles high SPLs at high frequencies and delivers the details without shoving anything in your face