AEA Ribbon Mics R88A Phantom-Powered Stereo Far-Field Ribbon Microphone

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.

Far-Field Stereo Ribbon

The R88A captures a space as it sounds live and in person with all the present subtlety and nuance. Its expansive frequency response and balanced low-end make it superbly effective when capturing the full breadth of sound from the back of a room, above a drum set, or overhead a string section.

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.

Works up Close

The proximity effect of the R88A is present when recording a source from closer than 16 inches, so this feature can be used to accentuate the low-end of a vocal or string instrument. Potential damage from loud sources is of no concern, even at such a short distance, as the R88A can handle 141+ dB SPL at 1 kHz.

For Blumlein or Mid-Side Configurations

The R88A uses two bidirectional figure-8 ribbons for producing an authentic representation of a performance. The pair of elements are angled in perfect phase at 90 degrees and mounted in close proximity to each other along the vertical axis of the microphone.

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.

High-Output Active Electronics

The active R88A mic retains the same sonic character of the R88mk2, but with an additional 12 dB of output and a stable impedance. This gives a consistent frequency response and greater flexibility with different preamps, including those found in audio interfaces for personal computers. This is great for on-the-road musicians who might have to use a different preamp each night.

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.

Features at a Glance

• 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