Capture lush stereo recordings in minimal setup time using any preamp with the AEA Ribbon Mics R88A, an active stereo far-field ribbon microphone designed for quick and precise Blumlein and mid-side configurations on a single mic stand. Offering the open and natural sound of two traditional side-address, large-ribbon mics in a compact and lightweight form factor designed for far-field use, the R88A ribbon mic is ideal when positioned 16" to 20' away from the source, be it for group vocals, acoustic instruments, ensembles, or drums, in the studio or on the stage.
As a far-field ribbon, the R88A provides full low- and high-end tone when capturing sources in the context of a room. Equipped with JFET electronics and a custom transformer, the R88A provides a 12 dB level increase over the passive R88mk2. Plus, it boasts the widest frequency range of any AEA mic (along with the NUVO N8). The figure-8 polar pattern of each ribbon element exhibits the classic pickup traits and side-rejection qualities associated with ribbon mics. The mic's XLR 5-pin male connector and included breakout cable (XLR 5-pin to dual XLR 3-pin) allow hookup to virtually any microphone preamps that can supply 48V phantom power. Due to the active circuitry and stable impedance of the R88A, it does not require a high-gain, high-impedance preamp for optimal performance.
It is designed to be positioned at an ideal distance of 16 inches or farther from the source of sound. This far-field design allows for a wide range of options when positioning the R88A to best capture an instrument within the context of a room.
From as far away as 20 feet away, the R88A retains the low-end frequencies of the sources it captures, and its open, natural tonality makes it perfect to record an entire orchestra or the full low-end of a drum kit from overhead.
As an alternative to Blumlein's technique, the microphone can also be used for mid-side (MS) stereo, providing excellent mono compatibility and full control over the width of the stereo image.
The extra 12 dB of output is vital when recording quiet sources like vocals or soft acoustic guitars. The active circuitry also prevents noise interference on long cable runs or when operating near large lighting rigs. The R88A's active circuitry requires standard 48V phantom power to operate. The premium R88A is visually distinguished by a red cable at its base.
- Open and natural sound
- Far-field ribbon mic that retains lows and highs from a distance
- Stereo version of the AEA N8 ribbon mic
- 12 dB level increase over the passive R88mk2
- Optimized for all preamps
- Compact, lightweight, and low-profile design
- Handles SPLs up to 141 dB
- Made in the USA