AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone

The AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone is an exact replica of the vintage RCA 44BX ribbon microphone, considered the most musical sounding mic ever built. Featuring an unparalleled warmth and legendary ribbon character, and full and rich tonality with generous low end and proximity effect, the R44C is ideal for capturing any voice or instrument.

The AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the RCA 44, a microphone that has retained its sonic prowess for over seven decades. Expertly curated by Wes Dooley, a renowned specialist in ribbon microphones, this microphone has been meticulously resurrected to its former glory, honoring the original RCA 44 design from the 1930s. The journey of restoration undertaken by AEA involved sourcing rare ribbon materials, crafting bespoke tools, and precision machining all components, resulting in the rebirth of a legendary classic: the AEA R44C.

Vintage Charm with Sonic Brilliance
The AEA RCA 44 ribbon microphones have held an indomitable presence in recording studios long after RCA ceased their production in 1955. The 44 B/BX was celebrated for its distinctive characteristics—smoothness, forgiveness, and unique tonal balance. These attributes made it a prized possession for musicians and engineers alike. However, as collectors amassed AEA RCA 44s in the 1990s, the availability of this exceptional ribbon microphone became increasingly endangered.

Meticulously Crafted with Authentic Ribbon Material
The AEA R44C pays homage to the RCA legacy by employing ribbon material originally manufactured for RCA microphones. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the AEA R44C captures the essence of vintage RCA 44s, preserving the classic sound while adhering to the highest standards of authenticity.

Modern Enhancements within a Vintage Framework
Modern advancements have been incorporated into the AEA R44C, enhancing its durability and performance. Modern magnet technology, more robust than its vintage counterparts, ensures reliability and consistency in sound reproduction. AEA harmoniously blends the American undamped ribbon design with British RCA 44 innovations, resulting in reduced weight and improved hum sensitivity. This design choice defies contemporary ribbon microphone manufacturing trends, as the AEA R44C retains its substantial size and weight. Its internal ribbon element stands as one of the longest in the industry, with resonance tuning that reaches lower depths than most modern ribbon microphones. This pure undamped ribbon design, rarely seen in recent decades, remains in continuous studio use, rendering the AEA R44C distinctive and its sound, truly unique.

Versatile Applications
The AEA R44C's remarkable sonic characteristics make it a versatile choice for various recording applications. Musicians and engineers alike have found it to excel in diverse settings, from capturing the warmth and nuances of vocals to enhancing the brilliance of saxophones and the grit of electric guitars. Whether used on brass, woodwinds, percussion, strings, or voice recordings, the AEA R44C consistently delivers exceptional results. In conclusion, the AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone bridges the past and present, offering audio professionals and musicians an authentic vintage sound with the benefits of modern craftsmanship and durability. It is a true testament to the enduring legacy of the AEA RCA 44 and a valuable tool for capturing timeless, high-quality recordings.

AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone Features

• An Authentic Tribute to the Original RCA Ribbon Microphone
• Utilizes the Same Exquisite Ribbon Material as the Legendary RCA 44
• Craftsmanship at the Pinnacle of Studio Standards
• A Single Diaphragm Figure 8 Ribbon Microphone
• Exceptional Null-Axis Rejection for Precision Recording
• Equipped with a Custom AEA Transformer
• Handles High Sound Pressure Levels (SPL), with a Maximum Level of 140dB and Above 200Hz
• Boasts Low Self-Noise for Pristine Audio Capture
• Maintains Consistent Polar Response for Reliable Results
• Operable in High Humidity Environments, Ensuring Reliability in Diverse Conditions

AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone Specifications

• Operating Principle: Pressure Gradient Transducer
• Directional Pattern: Bidirectional
• Frequency Range: < 20 Hz to > 20 kHz
• Polarity: Pin 2 High for Positive Pressure on Front of Microphone
• Polar Response: Figure-of-8 Pattern
• Horizontal: Up to 90 dB Rejection at Right Angles to the Front/Back Axis
• Vertical: Level Changes with Angle of Incidence, but Frequency Response is Consistent
• Maximum SPL: 165+ dB SPL (1% 3rd Harmonic > 1 kHz)
• Sensitivity: 2.25 mV/Pa (-53 dBV) into Unloaded Circuit
• Output Impedance: 270 Ω Broadband
• Recommended Load Impedance: 1.2 k Ω Or Greater
• Transducer Element Material:
  • Thickness: 1.8 μm
  • Width: 0.185 in (4.7 mm)
  • Length: 2.35 in (59.7 mm)
• Microphone Dimensions:
  • Height: 12.25 in (31.1 cm)
  • Width: 4.62 in (11.7 cm)
  • Depth: 3.25 in (8.3 cm)
• Weight w/ Cable: 7 lb 9 oz (3.43 kg)
• Connector: XLR-3M

AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone Includes

• AEA R44C Ribbon Microphone
• Captive 10-Foot Output Cable w/ XLR-3M Connector
• Vertical Storage Case
• Zippered Canvas Bag
• User Manual
• Manufacturer Warranty