User's Manual

figure-8 microphone, the front side of the R-122V is in-phase and the back side is out-of-phase.
We suggest that you reverse the phase polarity on your microphone preamplifier to achieve in-
phase recordings when tracking on the back side of an R-122V.
Normal proximity effect (increase of bass), which is prevalent on the R-122V and all ribbon
microphones, starts to occur normally at 4-6 feet from the microphone and increases with
closeness. Vocalists and voice-over talents often work the microphone closely to take advantage
of proximity effect, which gives an authoritative quality or rich texture to their voice.
Cautionary Note:
It is important to note that the SPL handling capability of the rear side of the R-122V is lower
than its front side. The R-122V is rated for 135dB SPL on its front side, but recordings on the
rear side should not exceed 115dB SPL. When tracking loud sounds on the front side, the
R-122V’s offset-ribbon design allows ample space for rearward excursions of the ribbon element.
However, tracking on the back side causes the ribbon to move forward towards the front side of
the microphone, where the internal dampening screen is much closer to the ribbon element.
Rear-side recordings of loud, low-frequency sounds, or vocalists with no pop filter, can drive the
ribbon into the front dampening screen, creating noise and possibly damaging the ribbon
element. Limit back side recording on your R-122V to lower SPL sound sources.
Care & Maintenance
The R-122V is a well-built, precision instrument. All that is required to ensure proper operation
of this microphone is to follow some commonsense rules.
1. Avoid transducer damage by not exposing the microphone to severe shock or vibration. If the
microphone is accidentally dropped, test it to see if damage has occurred before returning it
to service. Low output or a dull sound would indicate a stretched ribbon.
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Figure 3
Typical M-S connection set-up