Royer Labs R101 Mono Ribbon Condenser Microphone Overview:

The R-101 is a mono, passive ribbon microphone utilizing our patented offset-ribbon transducer and a 2.5-micron ribbon element. The R-101 is hand-built in our Burbank, CA facility and delivered at a price point suitable for home studio use and live applications.

The R-101 is a new breed of modern ribbon microphone, designed for studio work and demanding live applications (particularly live electric guitar and brass). It incorporates many features pioneered by Royer Labs, including an advanced multi-layered wind screen for superior protection from air blasts and plosives, our patented offset-ribbon transducer, an internally shock mounted ribbon transducer system which provides greater isolation from shocks and vibrations, and reduced proximity effect for closer miking with less bass buildup. Throw it on a guitar cabinet, hit record, play it back, smile.

The ribbon elements smooth frequency response and phase linearity impart a warm, analog feel to digital recordings, where the depth and realism on playback feels more like tape rolling than digits being computed. A perfect choice for electric guitars, brass instruments and drums, the R-101s figure-8 pattern also conveys superb ambience and depth when used for room miking applications.

Patented Offset Ribbon Technology
The R-101 incorporates Royers patented offset-ribbon technology and a low mass, 2.5-micron aluminum (99.9% pure) ribbon element. The ribbon transducers flux-frame and rare earth Neodymium magnets create a powerful magnetic field which increases sensitivity while reducing stray magnetic radiation.

The R-101s offset-ribbon transducer (Patent # 6,434,252) positions the ribbon element towards the front (logo) side of the microphone body. This proprietary arrangement gives the ribbon element more room to move within the prime magnetic field and maintain full frequency response during high SPL recordings. Its an integral part of the magic in all Royer R-series microphones.

The offset-ribbon transducer also gives you the option of a brighter response when recording lower SPL sound sources on the back side (3 feet and closer; phase reversed in this position). The back side of the mic is often preferred on vocals, acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments.

Features

• High SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussion
• Multi-layered wind screen provides superior protection to ribbon element
• No internal electronics to overload or produce distortion up to
• maximum SPL rating
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element not affected by heat or humidity
• Absence of high-frequency peaks, “ringing” and phase shifts
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of element

Applications

• Close miking
• Electric & acoustic guitars
• Drum overheads, kick drum (see manual for position),
• room miking
• Percussion instruments
• Brass, horn sections
• Strings-solo & sections
• Acoustic piano
• Vocals
• Live events-recording and sound reinforcement

Specifications:

• Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient
• Polar Pattern: Figure-8
• Generating Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
• Magnets: Rare Earth Neodymium
• Frequency Response: 30 -15,000Hz +/- 3dB
• Sensitivity: -48dB (re. 1v/pa)
• Output Impedance: 300 Ohms @ 1kHz (nominal)
• Maximum SPL: 135dB @ 30Hz
• Rated Load Impedance: 1500 Ohms (or greater)
• Output Connector: Male XLR 3-pin (Pin 2 Hot).
• Dimensions: 200mm L X 36mm W (7.9″ L X 1.4″ W)
• Weight: 483g (17 oz)
• Finish: Matte Black
• Accessories: Shock mount, carrying case, mic sock