Royer Labs R-121 Studio
Dynamic Ribbon Microphone with Figure-8 Polar Pattern

In 2014, Royer Labs not only celebrated its 15th anniversary, but was awarded a 2013 Technical Grammy for its contribution to the recording industry, for designing a piece of gear that perfectly complemented the modern digital method. Some 15 years after the R-121’s invention, Royer’s instinct has held true. Digital recording with converters makes the distortion artefacts and crispy highs, typically dulled a little by the tape recording medium, will sit right in front of your face. You will hear harshness from microphones that are uncomfortable, whereas ribbons recorded to digital systems beautifully. With Royer Labs, a lot of sound engineers said they felt like they were working in an analogue world again.

The Royer R-121 is a passive ribbon microphone with an innovative offset ribbon placement that gives the two sides of the microphone distinct features and sound.

The ribbon element is made of pure aluminum and is 2.5 microns thick, and is tuned to about 40Hz. It is offset toward the front side of the microphone case, which among other features provides a high-SPL capability of 135 dB on the front side. The rear side is equally sensitive but brighter. Royer bills this feature as “two microphones in one.” This innovation was patented in 1999.

• High SPL Capabilities
• No internal active electronics to overload or produce distortion up to maximum SPL rating
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element is not affected by heat or humidity
• Absence of high frequency phase distortion
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of element
• Consistent frequency response regardless of distance

Royer Labs R-122 MkII
Active Ribbon Microphone with 15dB Pad and Bass Roll-off Switch

Royer has upgraded one of its most popular ribbon microphones with the R-122 MKII active ribbon mic. This new model retains the impressive output and flexibility of the original R-122 while adding key features like a 15dB pad and a bass roll-off switch. These enhancements allow you to capture even the loudest sound sources without the risk of overload or distortion. The R-122 MKII also offers greater control over the proximity effect, letting you reduce unwanted mud and rumble using the switchable filter. The R-122 MKII’s refinements make it a versatile and powerful choice for any stage or studio application.

Royer Labs dBooster
In-line Signal Booster for Ribbon and Dynamic Microphones

Ribbon and dynamic microphones are essential in any well-rounded studio, but they often come with one significant challenge: they require substantial gain to effectively capture low-level audio sources. The Royer dBooster offers a perfect in-line solution, providing a clean, switchable 12dB or 20dB gain boost to your ribbon and dynamic mic signals. This phantom-powered booster delivers exceptional headroom and ultra-low noise, with virtually no self-distortion. It also offers superb RF shielding, ensuring optimal signal quality even over long cable runs.

With premium circuitry, including a true Class-A input stage, the dBooster maintains your microphone’s natural, uncolored sound. Whether in a professional studio, live sound setting, or home recording environment, the Royer dBooster elevates the performance of your ribbon and dynamic mics to new heights.

• In-line, phantom-powered signal booster, perfect for driving power-hungry ribbon and dynamic mics
• Switchable 12/20dB gain boost allows you to record whisper-quiet sources with your audio interface or standard preamp
• Ultra-low noise/distortion performance, with a massive amount of headroom, exemplary RF protection, and true electrical isolation
• Premium circuitry ensures consistent and optimal gain/headroom, including a true Class-A input stage, an internal regulated power supply for true electrical isolation, and an actively balanced line driver with dual op-amps
• Also serves to protect ribbon mics from phantom power
• Minimizes mic loading
• Capable of driving difficult loads, such as mic splitters and vintage-style preamps, without increased distortion or loss of gain