AEA Ribbon Mics R88mk2 Stereo Far-Field Ribbon Microphone

As a far-field ribbon, the R88mk2 provides full low- and high-end tone when capturing sources in the context of a room. 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 preamp no phantom power required. High-gain, high-impedance preamps are recommended for optimal microphone performance.

Far-Field Stereo Ribbon

The R88mk2 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 R88mk2 to best capture an instrument within the context of a room.

From as far away as 20 feet away, the R88mk2 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 R88mk2 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 R88mk2 can handle 165+ dB SPL at 1 kHz.

For Blumlein or Mid-Side Configurations

The R88mk2 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.

Designed for High-Gain Preamps

Since the R88mk2 is a dual passive ribbon microphone, the preamp is critical for optimum performance. Preamp gain should be at least +60 dB or higher and it should have a very-high impedance. These requirements are vital for the ideal performance of any ribbon mic.

To guarantee consistent, full-range ribbon sound with the passive R88mk2, preamps designed specifically for ribbon microphones (such as AEA s RPQ2, RPQ500, and TRP2 preamps) are available separately. However, preamps with above a 5-Kilohm impedance found in many live soundboards are adequate for guitar amps and other louder instruments. On quiet sound sources or for distance recording, an AEA preamp is highly recommended.

Features at a Glance

• Open and natural sound
• Far-field ribbon mic that retains lows and highs from a distance
• Passive, stereo version of the AEA N8 ribbon mic
• Compact, lightweight, and low-profile design
• Handles SPLs up to 165 dB
• Made in the USA