Ribbon microphones are old school and they’ve been used by musicians, sound engineers, and people with a passion for music since their invention in the early 20th century.
With today’s technological advancements, ribbon microphones can still be found on musical stages around the world as well as in recording studios all over the world. The following article will help you when it comes to buying a ribbon microphone.
The world of microphones is a huge one, with many manufacturers making ribbon mics for countless decades. The vintage market also offers re-issue models from one company or another.
Ribbon microphones are best suited to recording vocals, guitar amps, and drums. Ribbon mics best suit vocal recordings as they produce a warm, natural sound with little or no coloration of their own.
What is a ribbon microphone?
A dynamic microphone is what a ribbon mic is. Ribbon microphones have an incredibly thin strip of metal usually made from aluminium hung in a strong magnetic field instead of a diaphragm coupled to a moving coil that vibrates inside a magnetic field like a dynamic microphone. The ribbon operates also as a diaphragm as well as a transducer element, delivering the same sensitivity and transient response as a condenser but with a completely distinct personality.
They also have an excellent off-axis response, meaning the microphone picks up sounds equally well from all directions. This is particularly important when recording vocals, as singers naturally move their heads when they sing.
Guitar amplifiers are best recorded with dynamic microphones, which tend to offer more clarity and detail when miked in the studio. However, this results in a harsher sound that may be difficult to use in some settings. Ribbon mics can help produce a warmer tone when recording such sources.
Ribbon mics best suit drum kit recordings as they produce a rich sound that can be easily tweaked with EQ or other post-recording tools to get the best possible result from every element of the kit.
They also have good isolation, meaning if one mic is used to record a particular element (such as the bass drum or snare), it will not pick up sounds from other elements in the kit. This is useful for creating a natural and uncluttered sound in post-production.
1. MXL R144 HE – Best Ribbon microphone
MXL is one of the top microphone companies around and their R144 HE Ribbon Microphone is a prime example of why they’re so highly respected. This mic has a sweet, warm tone that’s perfect for capturing vocals or instruments.
It also has a high SPL rating, which makes it ideal for use in louder environments. Plus, its sleek design will look great on any stage or studio. If you’re looking for a top-quality ribbon mic, the MXL R144 HE should definitely be at the top of your list.
MXL R144 HE Ribbon Microphone is perfect for capturing the nuances of vocals and acoustic instruments. R144 HE microphone provides a natural sound with great detail, making it perfect for recording live performances or studio sessions. With its sensitive ribbon design, the MXL R144 HE Ribbon Microphone is sure to impress!
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
This MXL R144 Heritage Edition Ribbon Microphone is a work of art! It has been designed with all the features you need for professional-quality sound. Plus, the R144 tone of voice is absolutely perfect, making it the perfect microphone for capturing your audio masterpiece.
MXL’s R144 Ribbon Microphone is an ideal choice for classical music, choirs, acoustic instruments, strings, and horns, with high SPL capacity, excellent side rejection, and accurate directivity. and other sources that require a warm tone. It features a bidirectional, figure-8 polar pattern and 20Hz-17 kHz frequency response. The included shock mount helps eliminate unwanted noise.
R144 has the sound youβd expect from a ribbon mic at this price point but its most impressive feature is the build quality. It feels like it could survive being run over by a truck without missing a beat! I
A bidirectional ribbon mic adds character and dimensions to a variety of sources, including vocals, instruments, drums, amplifiers, and more. Add character and dimension to your recordings with the R144 Ribbon Microphone from M-Audio/MXL. R144 ribbon microphone classic figure 8 polar pattern that adds depth to your sound while its dual 1″ ribbons.
MXL’s R144 Ribbon Microphone is ideal and perfect for musicians who want a workhorse ribbon microphone.
one thing important about the ribbon microphone is that it doesn’t require any phantom power, using phantom power will ruin this microphone.
MXL R144 HE SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 20hz to 17khz
π€ bidirectional-Figure 8 Pattern
π€ Audio Sensitivity: -56dB
π€ Output Impendance: 250 ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: >130
π€ Ribbon Lenth 47mm
β Awesome Value for the Price tag
β High-quality Sound Results
β Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Nice Frequency Response
β Comes in a Nice Alimunium Box, with a shock mount and a cleaning cloth
β low sensitivity
β
Summaryβ
Ribbon microphones aren’t the greatest option for every sound source, but if you already have one or two nice capacitor mics for normal work, adding a ribbon device to your collection widens your tonal palette significantly.
MXL R144 HE Heritage Edition Ribbon Microphone is a must-have for anyone who likes to record sound. With the ability to capture every detail of your voice, this mic will make you feel like a pro!
R144 HE Heritage Edition Ribbon Microphone is an ideal solution for musicians who are looking to sound their best. If you want a unique, high-quality microphone that will make your voice or instrument stand out in the mix.
A wonderful point or feature of this R144 HE Heritage Edition Ribbon Microphone is the price tag, very affordable, excellent value for the price. which makes it one of the best ribbon microphones.
2. Royer R-10 – Ribbon microphone
Today, we are reviewing another one of the best ribbon microphones, that sounds good. ribbon microphones often have a warm, mellow tone that is perfect for capturing natural sound. here is the great ribbon mic to add to your collection, the Royer R-10 is definitely worth considering.
This mic has been designed with musicians and sound engineers in mind, and it delivers stunning results no matter what you’re using it for. R-10 is a handmade precision instrument with excellent sound quality and performance.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
An internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer and a multilayer windshield are among the Royer inventions used in the R-10 design. Shock mounting on the R-10 efficiently separates the ribbon element from vibration, extending ribbon durability.
The Royer R-10 Ribbon Microphone is the perfect microphone for capturing the warmth and natural tones of your voice or instruments. Its custom design and features ensure that you’ll be able to capture pristine sound quality, no matter what you’re recording. With its rugged construction and stunning aesthetics, the R-10 is perfect for any studio or live performance.
A 3-layer windshield system protects the R-10 2.5 micron aluminium ribbon element, which is manufactured using our revolutionary straight-line method.
Other Features of R-10 are shock and vibration resistance, and its performance is not affected by temperature or humidity fluctuations. Ribbon microphones, on the other hand, are more sensitive to direct air blasts, and the R-10 is no exception.
And the price factor of R-10 may affect you, but is affordable for most musicians and sound engineers, investing in your instruments is likely investing in yourself, which will result in outstanding quality.
R-10 does not require a power source and may be used on consoles with phantom microphone powering as long as the cable is correctly connected. It’s worth noting that not all ribbon mics are phantom-powered friendly.
Royer R-10 SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 30hz to 15khz
π€ Figure 8 Pattern - Bidirectional
π€ Sensitivity: -54 dBv
π€ Output Impendance: 100 ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: >135dB
π€ 2.5 micron aluminum ribbon
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
β Great build quality
β Comes in a Nice Aluminum Box
β Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Smooth and Natural Sound
β Internal Pop Filter with Shockmount system
β High SPL-Handling
β Little expensive for some
β
Summaryβ
The Royer R-10 Ribbon Microphone is a top contender for one of the best ribbon microphones on the market. The sound quality and detail it captures are absolutely unmatched, whether you want to use it as your main microphone or just need an additional option.
It’s also relatively affordable which makes this a great choice if you’re looking to purchase a high-quality mic without breaking the bank but keeping in mind that it may be expensive for some. R-10 ribbon microphone is definitely worth checking out if you have been considering investing in a new best ribbon microphone.
It’s tough and has a lot of headroom, so it’s great for loud sources like guitar amps, trumpets, and drums, as well as vocals and other sources.
3. sE Electronics Voodoo VR1
Another Here is one of the best ribbon microphones sE Electronics Voodoo VR1. it is designed to deliver stunning sound quality, and it’s perfect for use in a variety of recording applications. Plus, it’s remarkably easy to use, making it the perfect choice for musicians and sound engineers alike.
Siwei Zou, the company’s CEO and a well-known classical musician invented this microphone because he has excellent hearing and understands how beautifully recorded instruments should sound!
SE Electronics is a global leader in the production of various types of microphones for its excellent sound quality devices. The Voodoo ribbons are available in two versions: passive VR1 and active VR2, with both variants claiming a frequency response of 20Hz to 18kHz.
Kickstarter campaign by sE Electronics to fund a new ribbon mic called the VR1. It seems they are going back to their Voodoo series roots, which brought us the awesome VR1.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
Now coming to the design and features of the sE Electronics Voodoo VR1, VR1 Ribbon Microphone is the perfect addition to your home studio! With its stunning, vintage design, this microphone will help you capture those classic sounds you’ve always wanted. Plus, it’s easy to use and great for any type of recording!
The VR 1 mic features a 2.5 aluminium ribbon diaphragm and comes in a durable wooden box with a simple stand mount and cloth sock to protect the ribbon element from environmental damage during setup, as well as an optional shock mount.
An amazing mic is designed to give you the richest, most natural sound possible. With its intuitive features and beautiful design, the Voodoo VR1 is sure to be a favourite among musicians and audio professionals alike
The ribbon in the Voodoo capsule is just two microns thick, and it provides the figure-of-eight polar pattern that ribbon microphones are known for. While some people regard a figure-of-eight mic’s rear sensitivity to be a disadvantage, others see it as a benefit.
VR 1 has a sensitivity figure of 1.6mV/Pa with a frequency response rate of 20Hz-18kHz, and an output impedance of 300 ohms.
sE Electronics Voodoo VR1 SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 20hz to 18khz
π€ Figure 8 Pattern - Bidirectional
π€ Sensitivity: 1.78 mV/Pa
π€ Impendance: 300 ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: 135dB
π€ 2.5Β΅m aluminum ribbon
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
π€ Self-noise 19dB
β Awesome Build quality with a vintage look
β Comes in a Nice Wooden Box
β Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Perfect sound quality
β Minimal self-noise
β No Phantom Power required
β High SPL Handling
β Little expensive for some
β The ‘classic’ ribbon mic flavor is diminished by frequency range improvements.
Summaryβ
This is a great deal for the money. Definitely a step up from typical ribbon sound, with more high-end, retained. For micing guitar cabinets, this is without a doubt the preferred mic.
One of the advantages of this Ribbon Microphone is its minimal self-noise, which means you won’t have to worry about his or noise while recording voices or working on projects.
Voodoo VR1 Ribbon Microphone from sE Electronics is a versatile microphone that can be used for recording vocals, acoustic guitar, drums, and many other instruments. It provides an accurate sound reproduction with low distortion and high-frequency response up to 18 kHz which makes it perfect for musicians who want their music recordings to have the same clarity as hearing them performed live in person.
4. MXL R40 – cheap ribbon microphone
MXL R40 Ribbon Microphone is one of the best ribbon microphones, The MXL R40 is a well-made, attractive ribbon mic with passive technology that keeps the signal as clean as possible.
R40 preserves the traditional, smooth sound that makes ribbon microphones a popular choice for recording rich-sounding vocals by using only two major components: ribbon motor and transformer.
R40 MXL ribbon microphone has a wonderful and very reasonable price, making it ideal for anybody on a limited budget or who wants to try out ribbon mics to see whether they are worthy of all of the accolades that they have received from pros and enthusiasts over the years.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
R40 features a bi-directional polar pattern and, like any high-end ribbon mic, no switches in the circuit path just an XLR connection at the end. The MXL R40 is particularly good at recording vocals, as well as piano, guitar, horns, and other acoustic instruments.
Although the R40 has a strong build, it should be used with caution when placed in front of high-SPL sources. Any ribbon mic can be damaged by extreme close-miking at high SLP.
MXL R40 Ribbon Microphone is a professional-quality microphone that’s perfect for studio recording, live performances, or podcasting. With its ultra-sensitive ribbon design and wide frequency response
The sound of this ribbon microphone is particularly rich and smooth, as is typical of vintage microphones of its type. The pattern that MXL has created is capable of flawlessly capturing all of the instrument and room sounds.
MXL R40 ribbon microphone includes a good shock mount and extra piece of elastic for the spider basket, which always loses elasticity after a few years. It has a very low output, especially when compared to a traditional condenser microphone.
This mic would be perfect for voice-over/narration of spoken voices with a lot of sibilances if you have enough of clean, low-noise gain and a recording environment that’s been acoustically treated really well.
Power: With the R40, don’t have to use phantom power. A passive ribbon mic will be harmed by phantom power. for connectivity, it needs only XLR.
MXL R40 SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 20hz to 17khz
π€ Figure 8 Pattern - Bidirectional
π€ Sensitivity: -56dB
π€ Impendance: 250 ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: >130dB
π€ 1.8 micron aluminum ribbon
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
β Budget Ribbon Mic
β Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Nice sound quality
β No Phantom Power required
β High SPL Handling
β No pads and Filters
β lack of hyped high-end
Summaryβ
We hope you found this Mxl R40 ribbon microphone post helpful and informative. If youβre looking for a microphone that has been used by top recording artists, then the MXL R40 Ribbon Microphone may be what you need to give your recordings studio an updated look!
The MXL company is known for its high-quality audio gear which will make sure that your sound is crisp and clear when used in all types of environments.
The R40 from MXL is an excellent choice. This mic has a wide frequency range that captures every aspect of your voice or instrument, and its simple settings make getting the sound you want simple. Furthermore, the smooth finish provides it with a professional appearance that will blend nicely with any studio setting.
5. Beyerdynamic M160 – Double Ribbon Microphone
M160 is versatile and has a large frequency range. It departs from the normal. “Dark” sound of ribbon microphones. Two were utilized as overheads on a drum set by a specific classic rock band to create one of the most recognizable drum sounds of all time. M160’s aren’t only for overheads; they’re also terrific on toms, snares, and our personal favourite HiHats.
M160 is ideal for live performances and in-house studio recordings. it is one of the best ribbon microphones, M160 is an odd microphone. Although it is a ribbon, it is not a figure eight. It sounds vintage, warm, and substantial.
Ribbon mics are best for delicate sounds because they can pick up sound waves more accurately than dynamic or condenser microphones. Beyerdynamic M160 Ribbon Microphone is best for recording drums and guitar amplifiers, vocals, and much more.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
It boasts a Transient response with stunning transparency and a Hypercardioid polar pick-up pattern with an extended frequency response of 40 Hz-18 kHz.
M160 is made of tough, durable material that produces a pleasant, natural sound. The microphone’s non-glare finish makes it inconspicuous in TV and film studios. It’s also recommended for miking a variety of instruments in a recording studio, and it comes with the MKV 8 Microphone Clamp.
M 160 from Beyerdynamic is a dynamic double ribbon microphone with a hyper-cardioid polar pattern that works well for both distant and in-studio speech reproduction. M160 is the best ribbon microphone for micing violas, violins, pianos, cellos, saxophones, and other studio instruments, and also hi-hats, drums, and toms.
no doubt the best ribbon microphone of all time can also be used in the studio or on stage. I have had many good experiences with this ribbon microphone on saxophone, so it must be very satisfying to use on trumpet too.
Beyerdynamic M160 SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 40hz to 18khz
π€ Hypercardioid
π€ Presure Gradient Operating principle
π€ Impendance: 200 ohms
π€ pure aluminum diaphram
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
β Durable Ribbon Mic
β Hyper-cardioid Polar pattern
β Great Build quality
β Perfect sound
β High SPL Handling
β No pads and Filters
β not recommended for guitars (Few musicians report thick sound results )
Summaryβ
M160 best ribbon microphone has an unparalleled sound character with a charming and musical high-frequency boost which can be described as “silky”, but still remains neutral.
It will show you whether other microphones do too much to your signal or not enough. Sometimes the best ribbon microphone is no substitute for a condenser, but in many cases, it can be your best choice.
Even though the best ribbon microphone has a few disadvantages when used close to loud instruments (it will distort easily), it has so much more to offer than you would expect from its voice-like quality and extremely smooth top end. The best ribbon microphone is best suited for smooth vocals, woodwinds, and string instruments.
6. Cascade 98-G-A FAT HEAD – Vintage ribbon microphone
Cascade fat head Ribbon Microphone is one of the best ribbon microphones, It may be used for any vocal or instrument recording, as well as live sound applications. In the fat head microphone, a hand-tuned ribbon element employs the famous symmetrical ribbon design to create a truly balanced figure-8 polar pattern.
Every musician and singer wants to be able to record amazing, dynamic voices without having to be too near to the microphone, 98-G Fat-head ribbon microphone is for those who want to record voices without taking mics too near.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
FATHEAD Cascade 98-G-A Ribbon Microphone is an artistically designed microphone that captures both vocals and acoustic instruments with a lovely, smooth sound with minimum coloring. Furthermore, its long-lasting design assures that it can resist even the most strenuous touring schedule.
it has a brown body and golden head, it also comes in another color, black with a silver head but here we are only reviewing the brown one with a gold fat head
This Cascade FAT HEAD Ribbon Microphone is perfect for capturing the natural sound of your voice or instruments. It’s ideal for home studios, podcasts, and live performances. Plus, it’s easy to use and affordable. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with a stand!
talking about the frequency response of this fad head microphone, it has a frequency response rate of 25 Hz to 16 kHz with a maximum SPL level of 135dB and the sensitivity level of this 98-G Fat head microphone is about -56 dBV. its polar pattern is bi-directional Figure-8
A FAT HEAD Ribbon Microphone, a Molded Flight Case made of plastic, a mic Clip, and a Leatherette Pouch are included with the fat-head ribbon microphone.
Cascade 98-G-A FAT HEAD SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 25hz to 16khz
π€ Figure-8, bidirectional
π€ Capsule: Ribbon
π€ Impendance: 200 Ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: 135 dB SPL
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
π€ Sensitivity: -56 dBV
β Vintage Style – Fat Head Ribbon Mic
β Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Clear sound results
β Ideal for brass sound
β High SPL Handling
β Single polar pattern
β some times there’s a bit of a hum
Summaryβ
The Cascade Fat Head Ribbon Microphone is a great condenser microphone for anyone’s workstation. At an affordable price, one can get anything from a huge low-end to bright, airy highs. I would recommend this mic to anyone who needs that extra “spark” in their products and doesn’t want to go overboard with the price.
This microphone is not for everyone, however. If you’re looking to record vocals or an instrument that has a larger frequency range (drums, piano), I would look into other condenser mics that can offer multiple polar patterns and more control over their sound.
But if you plan on recording only instruments like the guitar, bass, or drums in the studio, I would highly recommend you check out this Vintage ribbon microphone. for more best vintage microphones click here
7. Golden Age Project R1 MKII – Retro ribbon microphone
here is one of the best ribbon microphones, Golden Age Project R1 Mk II is a large-diaphragm true ribbon microphone with active output electronics designed to offer an extended high-frequency response.
The Golden Age Project began in 2005 with the idea that older gear sounds best and a desire to carry on this audio heritage to a new generation of artists, engineers, and producers.
For many years, Golden Age Project founder Bo Medin has been a distributor of high-end studio equipment. He wanted to be able to provide items with much of the same distinctive sound in a price range that made them accessible to a wider audience.
Golden Age Project’s R1 MKII is a ribbon microphone that delivers classic ribbon performance. Ribbon microphones are popular among recording engineers and producers because of their smooth high end and extended lows.
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
R1 MKII has a vintage-style modern design equipped with a 50mm long, 2-micron thick ribbon that delivers rapid and lifelike transient response and can tolerate exceptionally high sound pressure levels of up to 160 dB SPL and a frequency response rate of 30hz-18khz.
It features a figure-8 polar pattern, which means it takes up sounds mostly from the front and back of the capsule and rejects noises from the sides, as is normal for a ribbon mic. When two or more sources are recording in the same room, you may leverage this to your benefit in the studio to assist limit bleed.
Electric guitar, vocals, strings, horns, acoustic instruments, orchestras, choral groups, and many more live-sound applications benefit from the R1 MKII.
The load impedance of this ribbon mic is 3000 ohms, and the output connection is a three-pin XLR. It’s a great tool for recording percussion, strings, and brass in general. With all of these characteristics, the mic is deserving of a spot in your mic locker, ready to be utilized when the time comes.
A traditional ribbon microphone’s unrivalled natural and melodious sound. It also has a breathtaking realism to it, giving the impression of “being around.”
In terms of sound, the ribbon has a characteristic big and mellow sound quality, with a very smooth top end and a long bass end. It reproduces in a quick and lifelike manner. it has about160 dB SPL plus ultra-high SPL ability.
Benefit of this design is that it produces one of the warmest and most natural-sounding microphones available. The disadvantage is that ribbon microphones are the most sensitive and delicate of all microphones.
As a result, the R1 MKII, like any other ribbon microphone, must be handled with extreme caution if it is not to be permanently damaged.
Never use phantom power on the R1 MK II since it might cause the ribbon to burn. Make sure that phantom power is turned off for at least 1 minute before inserting the R1 MKII into a mixer or preamp, and that no one else switches it on.
Golden Age Project R1 MKII SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 30hz to 18khz
π€ Figure-8, bidirectional
π€ Capsule: Ribbon
π€ Otput Impendance: 600 Ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: 160 dB SPL
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
π€ Sensitivity: -52 dBV
β Vintage Style -Ribbon Mic
β Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Great sound quality
β Integrated shock mount
β High SPL Handling up to 160dB SPL
β Hard to remove shock mount
β very sensitive
Summaryβ
Golden Age Project R1 MKII Ribbon Microphone. It’s a great mic that will bring your recordings to life while also staying true to what you want them to sound like. Get ready for people saying they never knew how good of a singer or musician you really are!
So, if you are looking for a good microphone to produce high-quality recordings of your voice or instrument, the Golden Age Project R1 MKII Ribbon Microphone may be perfect for you. It is available at an affordable price and has so many great features that will make your job easier when recording.
A few words about the ribbon microphone itself. The R1 MKII is a true-ribbon design with very low noise and an SPL rating of up to 160 dB which means it can handle loud sources without adding its own character to them.
8. MXL R144 Ribbon Microphone – Best cheap ribbon mic
If you’re looking for a warm, vintage sound with an emphasis on the lower-midrange frequencies, then look no further than the MXL R144 Ribbon Microphone. It’s even more impressive considering its affordable price, really the best value for the price.
One thing which I want to clear above the first microphone MXL R144 HE is the heritage version different from this one, this is just the MXL R144 ribbon microphone.
MXL R144 ribbon microphone is a workhorse for musicians and sound engineers!
π€ Features and Specifications π
Design and Features:
it has a very cool design. It’s simple, elegant, and extremely well built. It’s also incredibly small for a ribbon mic. The grille is wrapped by an elastic shock mount band which attaches to the body of the mic with steel clips on each end. This helps to hold the mic securely in place and also acts as a pop filter, which blocks plosives from reaching the diaphragm.
It is strongly advised that you use a preamp with low noise, high gain, and an input impedance of 1500 ohms or more. MXL recommends experimenting with placement and isolation needs with the gain initially set low to avoid potential equipment and ears damaged by hearing.
It is a general point that Ribbon microphones have a lower output than condenser microphones and may require a high-gain preamplifier.
MXL R144 best cheap ribbon mic does not require any kind of phantom power, so be careful, attaching an R144 ribbon microphone with phantom power will damage your mic.
MXL R144 SPECIFICATIONS:
π€Frequency Range: 20hz to 17khz
π€ Polar Pattern Figure-8, bidirectional
π€ Ribbon type: 1.8-micron aluminum
π€ Impendance: 250 Ohms
π€ Maximum SPL: 130 dB SPL
π€ Male XLR 3-pin for connectivity
π€ Sensitivity: -56 dBV
β Best Cheap Ribbon Mic
β Figure-8 Polar pattern
β Perfect sound quality
β Multi-purpose (for recording instruments)
β High SPL Handling
β Build quality is not much good
β sometimes Catches extra sounds (desk etc)
Summaryβ
MXL R144 ribbon mic is no doubt one of the best ribbon microphones, its frequency response is great for recording most instruments, even acoustic guitar. And it sounds good on vocals too!
MXL R144 microphone is great for both live performances, and studio recordings, this ribbon microphone is fairly durable, so it should last you a long time if you take care of it.
It is ideal for male and female vocal recordings. The MXL R144 does an excellent job at picking up all of the mids to highs, which translated really well in recordings.
Ribbon Microphones: 10 Things You Need To Know Before Buying One
There are a lot of things worth considering before buying a ribbon microphone, but don’t worry these ten simple steps will help you find the best ribbon mic for you.
– The materials used in the construction of the ribbon mic
– Ribbon microphones are available as inside or outside pattern mics, so depending on what you need for your recordings, you will have to choose between one over the other.
– Ribbon microphones don’t need phantom power so if you’re working with budget preamps then this might be a good choice.
– The easiest way of finding the ribbon mic you need is by figuring out what frequencies you want to capture, so give some thought to this one.
– Ribbon mics are more fragile than other kinds of microphones but there are certain models that can take physical abuse before they start malfunctioning, which will make it easier for you to work with them.
– Some ribbon mics need a shock mount to be installed on them, but fortunately, most of the models that have been mentioned above come with a built-in shock mount so you won’t have to look for external ones if your budget can’t allow it.
– Ribbon mics are great when it comes to capturing a big space and even though they’re known for their warmth, they can be harsh if you record a bad-sounding room.
– They can also be used as overhead mics or even as drum overheads, which means that it’s up to you whether or not you want them to have multiple uses.
– The polar pattern of the mic you get will also depend on the frequency response that you need, so it’s up to you to figure that one out.
– The price is generally related to how good of a mic you’re getting, which means that there are some affordable ones and some really expensive ones too. also, these all depend on your budget of course!
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