AEA R84 Ribbon Microphone

“When using even high-quality condensers with a DAW, you forget how good things can sound and end up settling for “really good” instead of “excellent.” A quality ribbon like the R84 can take a production to the next level, injecting some butter into a margarine world.” – Mix Magazine”

Based on the character of the legendary R44, the AEA R84 Ribbon Microphone provides classic tonality with extended top-end and reduced proximity effect for medium and close range recording.

In 2000, AEA sought to design a more compact, lighter and less expensive version of the hefty, eight-pound RCA 44BX. The result was the R84, which includes the best of the 44 series in a lower cost, three-pound package.

The R84 and original RCA 44 (now the R44C) share the same Big Ribbon element, transformer and other elements in the design. By using modern design techniques and stronger — but smaller — magnets in the R84, the classic RCA ribbon sound is retained.

However, the R84 has improvements — including less proximity effect, better top end, vibration isolation and greater placement flexibility on tight stages and in studios. The mic’s U-shaped yoke acts as a shock mount and also enables the user to position the R84 at numerous angles even with a straight stand.

Outstanding transient response for natural sound

The AEA R84 uses a big, 2.35″ by 0.185″ by 2 micron pure aluminum low-tension ribbon element, that ensures a quick response, whatever the application. This means that percussive attacks, vocal consonants, and other rapid-attack material are cleanly and accurately reproduced by the R84 with no “dull’ or “flabby” characteristics. It sounds just like you’re standing right in front of the source!

A versatile mic for multiple recording applications

The AEA R84 uses Large Ribbon Geometry (LRG) that’s suitable for use by the most demanding audio professional or hobbyist. Whether you’re recording brass instruments, strings, piano or percussion, or you’re trying to capture that elusive “perfect” vocal take, the R84 large ribbon microphone is up to the task.

Superb bass and treble response that handles high SPLs

The R84 produces solid bass down to 20Hz and clean, clear highs up to 20kHz. Plus, it’s capable of handling better than 165 dB SPL at higher frequencies, so whether used on vocals or instruments the R84 offers a performance that covers the entire frequency and dynamic range yet is still intimate, warm and detailed, yet never harsh.

The AEA R84 is supplied in a complete system that includes a shock mount, 10-foot mic cable and sturdy foam-lined carrying case. Weighing-in at under two pounds and measuring eight inches tall and 2.7 inches in diameter, the R84 is a great sounding microphone that is extremely versatile.

Features

• Warm, smooth and detailed classic ribbon sound
• Reliable ribbon mic with wide dynamic range
• Large Ribbon Geometry (LRG), 2.35″ by 0.185″ by 2 micron pure aluminum low-tension ribbon
• Able to handle better than 165 dB SPL at higher frequencies
• Figure 8 pattern for duo recording convenience
• Includes shock mount, 10-foot cable and sturdy foam-lined carrying case
• 100% handcrafted in Pasadena, CA, USA