Royer Labs R12 Active Ribbon Studio Microphone

About: Royer Labs R12 Active Ribbon Studio Microphone

Ideal for both studio recording and live sound applications, the Royer R-12 active ribbon microphone delivers outstanding performance on electric and acoustic stringed instruments, vocals, brass, pianos and organs, as well as drums and percussion instruments at an easily affordable price point.

• Very high overload characteristics – maximum SPL rating of 160 dB @ 1 kHz.
• R-12’s active electronics will not overload or produce distortion up to maximum SPL rating
• Requires standard 48-volt phantom power supply (4-mil current draw)
• Switchable high-pass filter cuts low frequencies at 100 Hz, 6dB per octave
• Switchable -15dB pad for recording high SPL sound sources
• 3-layer windscreen system protects against wind exposure and lowers proximity effect when close-miking
• Shock mounted ribbon transducer provides extra protection to ribbon element
• Swivel microphone mount allows flexible microphone placement.
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element is unaffected by heat or humidity
• Absence of high frequency phase distortion
• Excellent phase linearity – even off axis
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of element
• Consistent frequency response regardless of distance
• Compact size

The R-12 is capable of extremely natural sound acquisition, making the microphone an exceptional choice for capturing an audio source just like it sounds to the ear with extraordinary sonic accuracy. Royer ribbons have always been known for their ability to deliver a warm sound capable of capturing the elusive nuances of the original performance. R-12 takes this capability to the next level.

Of particular note, the R-12 uses the same 2.5 micron ribbon element found in the company’s legendary R-121 microphone. This feature delivers Royer’s well-known high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) capabilities measured at 160dB @ 1kHz. With its switchable -15dB pad, the R-12 can deliver excellent headroom for louder program material such as drums and dimed electric guitars. This important feature eliminates any potential for headroom-related distortion on even the loudest sound sources.

Another notable feature of the new R-12 microphone is its onboard active electronic circuitry, which significantly increases output level for quieter sound sources such as acoustic instruments and vocals. R-12’s active electronics consistently put a perfect load on the ribbon element, enabling the microphone to deliver its full sonic potential.

The R-12 is also outfitted with a switchable High Pass filter precisely tuned to reduce low end proximity buildup, making this microphone a perfect choice for capturing louder vocal performances and close-miking of instruments and loudspeaker cabinets.

Completing its rich feature set, the R-12 houses an internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer, which helps to protect the ribbon element while also reducing handling noise. Combined with its built-in triple-layer wind screen, the microphone’s ribbon is effectively protected against plosives and other wind-related noise.

Specifications

• Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient with active electronics
• Polar Pattern: Figure-8
• Generating Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
• Magnets: Rare Earth Neodymium (Grade 52)
• Frequency Response: 30 – 15,000Hz +/- 3dB
• Sensitivity: -36dB (re. 1V/pa)
• Switchable Pad: -15dB
• Switchable Bass Cut: 100Hz (6dB per octave)
• Self-Noise: < 16dB
• Output Impedance: 200 ohms, balanced
• Output Connector: Male XLR 3-pin (Pin-2 hot)
• Rated Load Impedance: 1k-Ohms, minimum
• Maximum SPL: > 160dB @ 1kHz, > 135dB @ 30Hz
• Power Requirements: 48-Volt Phantom Power
• Supply Current: 4mA
• Dimensions (Length including mounting base): 8.25 x 1.38 inch (209.5 x 35mm)
• Weight: 1.02 lbs (462g)
• Microphone Warranty: 10-year full warranty coverage on materials, workmanship, and finishes to the original owner.
• Ribbon Element Warranty: First re-ribbon free to the original owner within one year of purchase.

What's Included

• Microphone Holder
• Mic Sock
• Carrying Case