Datasheet

The R-122 is a compact, monaural, phantom powered ribbon
microphone - the first ribbon microphone of its kind. Sonically similar
to our R-121, the R-122 exhibits a flat frequency response and a well
balanced, panoramic soundfield, but it is 13 dB more sensitive, its
transient response is faster and its electronics provide an optimum
load to the ribbon element at all times. Like the R-121, its ability to
withstand high SPL’s makes it ideal for applications that were previ-
ously considered off limits to ribbon microphones.
The R-122’s active electronics produce an output comparable to
studio condenser microphones and provide an optimum impedance
to the ribbon element, preventing overdamping of the ribbon element
and assuring consistent microphone performance. The high gain and
low output impedance of the R-122 allow it to operate with any micro-
phone preamplifier with phantom power, including those of nominal gain and input
impedance characteristics. It is also well suited for use with long cable runs, which
can be helpful in live situations.
The R-122 utilizes a low mass, 2.5-micron, pure (99.99%) aluminum ribbon
element. The R-122's unique, patented offset-ribbon transducer assembly incorpo-
rates rare earth Neodymium magnets in a specially designed flux frame, which
forms a powerful magnetic field while reducing unwanted stray magnetic radiation.
The smooth frequency response and phase linearity of the R-122, coupled with its
sophisticated active electronics system, enable the R-122 to deliver a consistent
natural acoustic performance with stunning realism. Frequency response is excel-
lent regardless of the angle of sound striking the ribbon, and off-axis coloration is
negligible.
The R-122’s offset-ribbon design positions the ribbon element toward the front of
the microphone body, which allows for high SPL handling on the front (logo) side
and the option of a slightly brighter response when recording lower SPL sound
sources on the back side (3 feet and closer; phase reversed in this position).
R-122 FEATURES
• Active electronics provide high output capability, optimal impedance to the
ribbon element, extremely low self-noise and low output impedance
• Operates on standard 48-volt phantom power
• High SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussion instruments
• Absence of high frequency peaks, "ringing" and phase shifts
• Ribbon element unaffected by impedance/load, heat or humidity
• Equal sensitivity from front and back of ribbon element
• Very low magnetic leakage
• Gold plated XLR contacts
RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS
• Close and distant miking
• Electric and acoustic guitar
• Vocals, commercial broadcast, voiceover
• Brass, horn sections
• Drum overheads, kick drum (see manual for position), room miking
• Percussion instruments
• Strings - solo & sections
• Acoustic piano, harp
• Live events - recording and sound reinforcement
Actual size