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Nady RSM-2

Bidirectional Ribbon Microphone

Modeled after the AEA R84, the RSM-2 is a bidirectional ribbon microphone sold by Alctron (model HRM-1) and branded variously as the T.Bone RB500, PPA R-1, and more. (The actual manufacturer is probably ShuaiYin; see their model SYR-10.)

Reviewers commonly note the sound as “smooth” and “warm,” and invariably mention the mic’s pronounced proximity effect — worked closer than 8'', the low-end boost can be heavy, which would be useful on some sources but not on others.

As with most Chinese ribbon designs, the RSM-2 reviews well, and can be easily improved with a few modifications, such as stripping out the multiple layers of blast protection, retensioning the ribbon if necessary, and replacing the stock transformer.

The ribbon motor is known as “long ribbon / short path;” it measures approximately 50mm x 5mm and employs an hourglass-shaped yoke that minimizes the distance sound must travel around the side of the ribbon. Find more detail and analysis of the three ribbon motor types used in Chinese microphones, a RecordingHacks exclusive from Michael Joly.

The mic ships in a soft padded box. The mic has an integrated yoke mount. Note that the XLR cable is hardwired to the microphone.

Electronic Musician, 2005
The RSM-2’s frequency response works well when recording instrumental backing tracks, such as brass and strings. It captures the tone of acoustic instruments well, without expressing too much of the high frequency attacks of the lip or bow.

The Nady RSM-2 is also known as: RSM2.

Specifications

Frequency Response - BidirectionalClick Graph to Compare!

Pickup Patterns	Pads & Filters
Bidirectional (1.78 mV/Pa; 30 - 18,000 Hz)

Ribbon Construction	Impedance	SPL/Noise
50x5mm, 2-micron aluminum ribbon	200 Ohms (Low)	Max SPL: 165 dB

Weight	Length	Max Diameter	Interface(s)
1230g (43.39oz)	185mm (7.28'')	69mm (2.72'')	3-pin XLR male (1)

Power Specifications

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