A limited production vacuum tube studio ribbon microphone, the R-122V utilizes the same large-ribbon transducer assembly that is found in the R-121 and R-122 Active Ribbon microphones - providing a familiarity of sonic performance associated with the R-Series microphones. The R-122V exhibits a flat frequency response and a well-balanced sound field, and provides an output of -29dB, which is approximately 25dB hotter than an R121. Like its predecessors, the R-122V's ability to withstand high SPL levels makes it well suited for applications that were previously considered off limits to ribbon microphones.
The R-122V's offset-ribbon design positions the ribbon element toward the front of the microphone body. This design enables high SPL handling on the front (logo) side of the instrument, with the option of a slightly brighter response when recording via the microphone's back side (3 feet and closer; phase reversed in this position).
The R122V's active electronics utilize a NOS (new old stock) U.S. built military 6AU6 vacuum tube and Royer's proprietary toroidal ribbon matching transformer (patent pending). A Jensen 8:1 ratio output transformer provides an electrically isolated, fully-balanced output signal. The R-122V can drive virtually any preamplifier and long cable runs (from power supply to preamp) with ease. The active circuitry provides optimum impedance to the ribbon element at all times, preventing over-damping of the ribbon element and assuring consistent microphone performance. The R-122V receives an extensive burning in procedure to assure proper settling of the vacuum tube.
Specifications:
- Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient with vacuum tube
- Vacuum Tube: JAN mil-spec 5840W pentode wired in triode configuration
- Polar Pattern: Figure-8
- Generating Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
- Magnets: Rare Earth Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 30 -15,000 Hz +/- 3dB
- Sensitivity: -36 dB (re. 1v/pa +/- 1 dB)
- Self-Noise: < 18 dB
- Output Impedance: 200 Ohms, balanced
- Rated Load Impedance: 1 K-Ohm
- Maximum SPL: >135dB SPL @ 20 Hz
- Power Requirements: Plate supply: 135 VDC @2ma, Filament supply: 6 VDC@ 150ma from dedicated power supply.
- Dimensions: 206mm L, 25mm W (8 1/8 " L, 1" W).
- Weight: 300g (10.9 oz )
- Finish: Dull Satin Nickel/Matte Black Chrome optional