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