recordinghacks

BidirectionalRoyer Labs R-121

MSRP: $1,395 Bidirectional Ribbon Microphone

Royer Labs R-121

Description

The Royer 121 represents a revolutionary change in ribbon capabilities — it isn’t large, heavy, fragile, nor does it have low output requiring a high-end preamp to attain suitable gain levels.

The 2.5 micron, pure aluminum ribbon element is offset toward the front side of the microphone case, which among other features provides a high-SPL capability of 135 dB on the front side. The rear side is equally sensitive but brighter (and less able to handle high SPL). Royer bills this feature as “two mics in one.” This innovation was patented in 1999.

  • High SPL Capabilities
  • No internal active electronics to overload or produce distortion up to maximum SPL rating
  • Extremely low residual noise
  • Ribbon element is not affected by heat or humidity
  • Absence of high frequency phase distortion
  • Equal sensitivity from front or back of element
  • Consistent frequency response regardless of distance

That Royer offers a lifetime warranty (to the original owner) for this mic is a testament to its build quality. The ribbon element is warrantied for 1 year.

The mic is available in “Burnished Satin Nickel” or “Matte Black Chrome” finishes, and ships in a wood case. Matched pairs are available.

In 2008, Royer Labs began shipping a “Live” version of the R-121, called the R-121L. It is distinguished by a thicker, more durable ribbon and a red logo badge. It is intended for higher-SPL live applications.

Beomic BM3Note that the design of the mic, in which parts of the ribbon housing extend beyond the diameter of the body (giving the mic its characteristic “ears”), appears to be based on an early ribbon mic design by Bang & Olufsen, the Beomic BM3 (designed in 1955).

The Royer Labs R-121 is also known as: 121, R121, R-121L.

The mic was released in 1999.

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
  • Bidirectional (30 - 15,000 Hz)
Ribbon Construction Impedance Max SPL
2.5-micron, 3/16''x1.75'' offset aluminum ribbon 300 Ohms (Low (50-1000 Ohms)) 135 dB
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
244g (8.61oz) 58mm (2.28'') 25mm (0.98'')
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications

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