recordinghacks

BidirectionalAEA R84

MSRP: $1,000 Bidirectional Ribbon Microphone

AEA R84

Description

The R84 provides quick natural transients, articulate midrange, and effortless bass. It’s an excellent digital recording tool, as digital processing has different limitations than analog. Classic condenser mics sound great with analog partially because of their aggressive highs and the “tizz” they contribute. This resonant high end is then mellowed by the generational loss inherent to analog post-production.

The digital recording process is more exacting. It’s capable of preserving razor sharp details for generations. So it makes sense to use microphones that fit well into the final mix. Thus studio ribbon mics with their smooth, natural, and easy- to-EQ sound have enjoyed a rebirth as digital recording has blossomed.

The R84 delivers a sound that is big and clean. 20 years of ribbon mic service taught us about what users liked, and they like the big ribbon sound of the 44. Preserving and reintroducing that sound became an AEA mission. Our robust, heavy, and expensive to manufacture 44 series are now in daily use worldwide.

  • Wide-band response from 20Hz to 20 KHz
  • Effortless lows and smooth natural highs
  • Low self noise and high SPL capabilities
  • Handles 165dB SPL above 1 kHz
  • Native-mode single-diaphragm figure-eight
  • High null-axis rejection and gain before feedback
  • Natural sounding reproduction

The R84 uses the same big ribbon as the 44, is 5 pounds lighter, and less bulky. Designed for accent and solo work, its bass proximity effect is less pronounced and the upper 10K to 20 KHz octave is stronger than with the 44. Output sensitivity is good, being +2 dB to a Shure SM57. The R84 is now a standard in large and small studios around the world. An added pleasure for us is how much everyone loves the retro art deco styling.

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The mic was released in 2003.

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
  • Bidirectional (20 - 20,000+ Hz)
Ribbon Construction Impedance Max SPL
1.8 µm pure aluminum ribbon 270 Ohms (Low (50-1000 Ohms)) 165 dB
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
1360g (47.97oz) 295mm (11.61'') 64mm (2.52'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications

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