Royer R-122V Tube Ribbon Microphone

Full Description

Vacuum Tube/Ribbon Hybrid Microphone

The Royer R-122V Tube Ribbon Microphone combines the sonic characteristics of classic ribbon warmth with the high output of a vacuum tube. The unique design is ideal for recording higher-level sound sources. The exceptional audio fidelity delivers a rich sound with incredible depth and detail.

The joining of the two mic elements results in a lush midrange with a high operating voltage. This results in headroom far beyond conventional ribbon microphones. The result is high-end clarity and airiness, with the ability to hand high SPL levels without distortion.

Military-Grade 5840 Vacuum Tube

At the core of the microphone is a head amp comprised of a low-noise, triode-connected military grade 5840 vacuum tube. It offers excellent transient response with improved rive capabilities. The circuit is also void of any vacuum tube colouration, for optimal sound reproduction.

The specialised triode-configured cathode follower circuitry allows for longer cable runes. Normally longer cable runs results in audio degradation with the loss of high-frequency content. The R-122V combats this with its high-end vacuum tube and unique circuit design. The impedance matching design ensures the ribbon element will never be overloaded, for a truly reliable and stable microphone.

Record Virtually Any Sound Source

The high-end design allows you to record virtually any sound source with pristine audio fidelity. The microphone is highly suited for orchestral micing as well as recording strings, pianos, acoustic guitars and brass.

The microphone operates from a dedicated power supply, providing high SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussion instruments. It also boasts very low magnetic leakage as well as the absence of ringing and phase shifts. It provides equal sensitivity from front or back of the element for a consistent sound. The rear side of the microphone provides a slightly brighter sound when three feet or closer to a sound source.

Royer’s Patented Offset Ribbon Technology

One of the most unique features of the microphone is Royer’s patented offset ribbon technology. The custom design positions the ribbon element at the front of the traducer. This provides higher SPL handling on the front of the mic. It also results in a brighter response when recording lower-level sound sources such as vocals and acoustic instruments.

Durable Construction with Carry Case

The all-metal construction features nickel powder coat that not only looks sleek but provides optimal durability. The ribbon element is not affected by heat or humidity, ensuring a long lifespan. The passive design and custom transformer minimises overloading, protecting your ribbon element from damage.

Also included with the microphone is the RSM-1 shock mount for minimising structure borne noise. It comes complete with an external dedicated power supply and a locking 25-foot microphone cable. Additionally, the microphone comes complete with a stylish protective wooden case and mic sock, helping to preserve and protect your microphone whilst on the move.

Features

• Vacuum tube electronics provide high output capability, optimal impedance to the ribbon element and low output impedance
• Extremely low self-noise
• Operates from a dedicated power supply
• Slow ramp up filament supply assures long tube life
• High SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussion instruments
• Absence of high-frequency peaks, "ringing" and phase shifts
• Ribbon element unaffected by impedance/load, heat or humidity
• Very low magnetic leakage
• Ideal for recording strings, acoustic piano, harp, electric and acoustic guitar, vocals, brass, horn sections, drum overheads and percussion instruments

Specifications

• Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient with vacuum tube electronics.
• Polar Pattern: JAN mil-spec 5840W pentode wired in triode configuration
• Generating Element: 2.5 micron aluminium ribbon
• Magnets: Rare earth neodymium
• Frequency Response: 30 - 15,000 Hz ±3 dB
• Sensitivity: -36 dB (re. 1v/pa ±1dB)
• Self-Noise: < 18dB
• Output Impedance: 200 Ohms, balanced
• Rated Load Impedance: 1K ohms minimum
• Maximum SPL: > 135 dB SPL @ 20Hz
• Power Requirements:
  • Plate supply: 135 VDC @2ma
  • Filament supply: 6 VDC@ 150ma from dedicated power supply
• Dimensions: 206mm L X 25mm W (8 1/8” L X 1” W)
• Weight: 300 grams (10.9 oz)
• Finish: Burnished satin nickel
• Accessories: Protective wood case, RSM-1 shock mount, power supply, locking 25-foot microphone cable assembly
• Microphone Warranty: Lifetime to original ower (repair or replace at Royer’s discretion)
• Vacuum Tube Warranty: Ten years (manufacturer warranty)
• Ribbon Element Warranty: First re-ribbon free (manufacturer warranty)