If you are on the hunt for one of the best ribbon microphones, then you have come to the right place. We have reviewed the Top 10 ribbon microphones here at Between The Keys to help you narrow your search!

Best Ribbon Mics

Preamps

The Best Ribbon Microphones & Preamps: Budget to Pro

Contents

The Best Ribbon Microphones & Preamps: Budget to Pro

Best Ribbon Mics

1. Nady RSM-5: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The Nady RSM-5 is a budget ribbon mic that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility considering its low price, making it one of the best ribbon microphones on the market

This microphone features a bi-directional polar pattern, which allows it to capture sound sources from both the front and back of the mic, making it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, guitar amps, and general speaking for podcasts and interviews.

One of the standout features of the Nady RSM-5 is its 2-micron thick ribbon transducer, which is made of high-quality aluminum and delivers a warm and natural sound with excellent detail and transient response.

The mic’s figure-eight polar pattern also helps to capture a more natural and spacious sound, which can be especially useful when recording in a live or acoustic setting.

The microphone is made of sturdy metal construction, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of studio and live use. The included shock mount also helps to minimize vibrations and handling noise, allowing for cleaner recordings.

2. MXL R144 HE Heritage Edition Classic: Best Ribbon Microphones

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This is an affordable budget option and also one of the best ribbon microphones. It has been praised for its smooth, natural sound. It has a 1.8-micron aluminum ribbon element; a figure-8 polar pattern, and a frequency response of 20Hz-17 kHz.

One of the standout features of the MXL R144 is its bi-directional polar pattern, which makes it an ideal choice for recording a variety of sound sources, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and guitar amps.

The mic’s figure-eight polar pattern allows the recording of sound sources from both the front and back of the mic, which can result in a more natural and spacious sound. With over 200 positive reviews on Amazon, the MXL looks to be a safe purchase.

In terms of sound quality, the MXL R144 delivers a warm and natural sound that is ideal for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments and vocals. Overall, the MXL R144 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality budget ribbon microphone.

Its warm and natural sound, versatile bi-directional polar pattern, and rugged build quality make it a great choice for recording a wide range of sound sources.

If you’re looking for one of the best ribbon microphones, that won’t break the bank, the MXL R144 is worth considering.

3. Golden Age Project R1 MKII Ribbon Microphone: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The Golden Age Project R1 MKII is one of the best ribbon microphones that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility for recording a variety of sound sources.

This passive mic has a vintage look and weighs 3.45 Pounds, making it a fairly heavy microphone that may require a stand.

In terms of build quality, the Golden Age Project R1 MKII is built to last. The microphone has a sturdy metal construction, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of studio and live use.

The included shock mount also helps to minimize vibrations and handling noise, allowing for clean recordings.

4. SE Electronics – X1 Series: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The SE Electronics X1 series is a lightweight (1.65 pounds) ribbon microphone that offers exceptional sound quality at an affordable price point. This microphone is perfect for recording vocals, instruments, and even podcasting.

One of the most impressive features of the SE Electronics X1 series ribbon microphone is its natural and warm sound.

It captures the nuances of the sound source with great detail and accuracy, delivering a full and rich sound that is perfect for any recording application.

In addition, the microphone features a high-quality ribbon element that provides a smooth and natural frequency response.

This means that the microphone can capture even the subtlest nuances of the sound source, making it perfect for recording vocals, acoustic guitars, and other instruments.

5. MXL R77 Professional Ribbon Mic: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The MXL R77 Professional Ribbon Microphone is an excellent choice for recording vocals, guitar amps, and other instruments. It comes in an attractive Chrome/Gold design with a yolk form factor.

This microphone’s ribbon element is designed to capture sound with incredible detail and accuracy, making it ideal for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. The MXL R77 also features a figure-8 polar pattern that allows for excellent off-axis rejection.

This means that the microphone can capture sound sources in front of and behind the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides. This makes it perfect for recording in environments with background noise or unwanted sound sources.

The build quality of the MXL R77 is also impressive as it is extremely low in weight (1.8 pounds). It features a durable metal construction that can withstand the rigors of studio use.

The microphone also comes with a shock mount and a protective case, making it easy to transport and use in different recording environments.

6. SE Electronics – VR1 Passive Ribbon Mic Vintage Edition: Best Ribbon Microphones

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Check Price: Sweetwater

Even though the SE Electronics VR1 Passive Ribbon Microphone is lightweight at only 1 pound, it is built like a tank and looks the part too. This takes the 6th spot in out list if the best ribbon microphones.

This Vintage Edition mic is beautifully designed and captures sound with exceptional detail and accuracy. It is perfect for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and even drums.

One of the most impressive features of the SE Electronics VR1 is its design. The microphone features a classic look that is reminiscent of the microphones used in the golden age of recording.

This design not only looks great, but it also contributes to the microphone’s warm and natural sound.

This microphone also comes with a shock mount and a protective case, making it easy to transport and use in different recording environments. People have praised this microphone for its unique warm tone and unique sound profile.

7. Audio-Technica AT4081: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The Audio Technica AT4081 is an active ribbon microphone that stands out for its smooth and natural sound quality.

This microphone is built around the innovative MicroLinear ribbon technology, which ensures durability and protection against distortion.

The AT4081 boasts a sleek stick-mic profile, complemented by a perforated grille for added protection. It also utilizes N50 neodymium magnets, which contribute to its higher output.

This microphone is particularly well-suited for recording strings, drums, horns, and guitar cabinets, making it a versatile choice for various musical applications.

In the realm of ribbon microphones, Audio Technica’s AT4080 and AT4081 models have garnered attention for their active designs that require 48V phantom power.

The AT4081, in particular, is designed for versatility, with its slim profile being a notable feature.

Both models employ the MicroLinear ribbon imprint technology, which is hand-assembled to ensure rigidity.

The AT4081 also offers a unique acoustic baffle for enhanced low-end response and is known to capture an honest representation of sources, making it a reliable choice for professionals seeking authentic sound reproduction.

8. Beyerdynamic M160: Best Ribbon Microphones

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The Beyerdynamic M160 Double Ribbon Microphone is a classic ribbon microphone that has been used in professional recording studios for decades.

It features a unique double ribbon element design that delivers exceptional sound quality and performance. It has an extended frequency response of 40 – 18,000 kHz.

This microphone features two ribbons that are placed at a 90-degree angle. This design allows the microphone to capture sound with exceptional accuracy and detail, making it perfect for recording guitar amps, drums, and vocals.

The M160 also features a hypercardioid polar pattern that provides excellent off-axis rejection.

This means that the microphone can capture sound sources in front of and behind the microphone whilst rejecting sound from the sides. This makes it ideal for recording in noisy environments.

The build quality of the M160 is also impressive. It features a rugged metal construction and is built to last. The microphone also comes with a protective case, making it easy to transport and use in different recording environments.

9. Royer R-121: Best Ribbon Microphones

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This is a high-end ribbon microphone that has been highly recommended by audio engineers and musicians alike.

It has a warm, natural sound that is ideal for recording guitar amps, brass instruments, and vocals. Royer microphones are well-known for their premium studio ribbon mics.

One of the most impressive features of the R-121 is its pure, natural sound. The microphone captures sound with exceptional detail and accuracy.

The microphone has a figure-eight polar pattern, which means it can capture sound from both the front and the back of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides.

The R-121 also features a high SPL (sound pressure level) handling capability, which means it can handle high-volume sources without distorting or breaking up.

This makes it perfect for recording loud instruments like electric guitars and drums. It also weighs just 2.5 pounds.

High SPL capabilities
No internal active electronics to overload or produce distortion up to the maximum SPL rating
Extremely low residual noise
Ribbon element not affected by heat or humidity
No high-frequency phase distortion

10. Royer Labs R-122 MKII Active Ribbon Microphone

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The Royer R122 MkII is a notable advancement in the realm of ribbon microphones. Renowned as the first phantom-powered active ribbon microphone, the R122 has undergone improvements to enhance its performance and versatility.

The R-series microphones from Royer are robustly constructed, making them suitable for high-SPL use across a range of instruments.

A standout feature is the 2.5-micron-thick ribbon element paired with neodymium magnets in an innovative offset-ribbon design.

This design not only allows for creative microphone placement but also offers protection from phantom power and ensures independence from the effects of cables and preamps.

Royer Labs, a brand synonymous with high-quality ribbon microphones, introduced the R-122 MKII, further solidifying its reputation in the industry.

This phantom-powered ribbon microphone comes equipped with a -15 dB pad and a bass-cut filter, enhancing its versatility for various recording scenarios.

Its solid build and high output, comparable to condenser microphones, are commendable.

The unique offset ribbon design of the R-122 MKII ensures that the microphone remains undamaged even during high SPL recordings, making it a reliable choice for professionals and one of our best ribbon microphones!

Best Preamps

Many microphones including the best ribbon microphones need a preamp to run them.

Microphones benefit from a good preamp because the audio signal from microphones is weak, so they need a preamp to translate it into a stronger Line-level signal.

Here are five excellent preamps to consider:

1. Royer dBooster In-Line Signal Booster

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The Royer dBooster is a distinct cascade preamp tailored to amplify weak microphone signals before they are processed by an interface or mixer’s preamp.

This device is not just another cascade preamp; it boasts a sophisticated design that sets it apart from its counterparts.

It features an intricate discrete Class-A input gain stage, RF protection, and a balanced output line driver centered around a premium dual op-amp.

One of its standout features is the incorporation of eight bipolar junction transistors on each leg of the balanced input.

This design choice ensures minimized input noise and distortion, resulting in “ultra-low noise and distortion.”

Furthermore, the dBooster provides users with the flexibility to choose between gain levels of 12 or 20 dB via a button on the input end. This feature ensures optimal headroom and reduced noise for a variety of sources.

Additionally, the Royer R-DB20 dBooster is designed to use 48V phantom power to amplify ribbon and dynamic microphones. This design ensures that the microphones are safe from phantom power damage while maintaining electrical isolation.

The dBooster offers selectable boost levels of 12 and 20 dB on its front panel. Users can expect a sound output that is free from coloration, noise, and distortion.

The Class-A input circuitry is versatile, accommodating both high- and low-impedance sources. This ensures ample headroom and gain.

Moreover, its low-impedance output is tailored for driving digital interfaces or microphone preamps, allowing for extended cable runs with minimal signal degradation.

The dBooster is eligible for return, refund, or replacement within 30 days as well, providing peace of mind for buyers.

2. Cloud Microphones – Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator

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The Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator is a game-changer for passive microphones, offering up to 25 dB of clean, transparent gain, addressing low-output issues, especially with ribbon mics.

It’s a compact solution that enhances signal-to-noise ratios, making it ideal for various applications, from live broadcasts to studio recordings. Encased in a rugged steel enclosure, it ensures durability while retaining the source’s natural sonic characteristics.

This device is versatile, aiding noisy preamps, mixers, and long cable runs. Whether you’re a novice podcaster or a seasoned music professional, the CL-1 is a valuable tool for achieving optimal microphone performance.

3. Coda MB-1 Mic Activator, Ultra-Clean Gain, Microphone Preamp Audio Booster

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The MB-1 preamp is durable enough for the stage and quiet enough for the studio. For live sound, you can reduce line noise on long cable runs and improve the gain before feedback ratio for public speakers or singers.

With a -70dB noise rating you’ll be able to cut through the mix without adding feedback or unwanted hiss and hum. Coda’s microphone booster is perfect for podcasts, live streaming, radio broadcasts, live sound, and studio recording.

4. Triton Audio FetHead in-Line Microphone Preamp

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FetHead by TRITON AUDIO is an in-line microphone preamp tailored for ribbon and dynamic microphones. It employs FET technology to deliver up to 27dB of clean boost, eliminating the need for excessive mic preamp adjustments that might introduce noise.

This device can be seamlessly connected between a microphone and a preamp or mixer using an XLR connection. It boasts a robust metal chassis and is known to enhance a variety of microphones.

For instance, the Shure SM57 becomes more responsive across frequencies under its influence. High-end dynamic microphones like the Sennheiser MD441 and Shure SM7 particularly excel when paired with FetHead.

Additionally, ribbon microphones benefit from a better impedance match, reduced load, and improved transient response. A notable feature is its ability to protect ribbon mics from phantom power.

5. MANAYO In-line Microphone Preamplifier for Dynamic and Passive Ribbon Microphones

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The MANAYO In-line Microphone Preamplifier is designed to enhance the performance of both dynamic and passive ribbon microphones.

Available in a sleek black design, it has been compared to the more affordable Cloudlifter, known for its capability to enhance audio quality by significantly reducing gain requirements.

Users have reported a noticeable improvement in audio clarity and a reduction in noise, especially when paired with microphones like the Shure MV7 and Rode Podmic.

Its effectiveness and value at a competitive price point have garnered positive feedback.

Moreover, it has been highlighted for its seamless compatibility with existing equipment setups, such as the Rodecaster Pro 1, delivering a discernible difference, particularly for dynamic microphones.

What Is a Ribbon Microphone?

A Ribbon Mic is a bi-directional dynamic microphone with a thin, electrically conductive piece of metal ribbon (usually aluminum) held in a strong magnetic field. This differs from standard dynamic mics which have diaphragms.

The ribbon acts as both the diaphragm and the transducer, giving you the sensitivity and transient response associated with a condenser, but with a different character.

Ribbon mics add warmth and low-end emphasis to recordings, whilst high-end frequencies are ‘rolled off’.

Whilst most ribbon mics are passive and do not have onboard electronics, more modern ribbon mics can be active and are able to give their full sound potential regardless of the pre-amp that they are connected to.

Passive ribbon mics can be limited by the impedance of their connected pre-amp, and depending on the impedance, you will get a different frequency response.

Why Use a Ribbon Microphone?

Ribbon mics are often regarded as the warmest and most natural-sounding microphones. This means they don’t color the sound and have even been described as recording similar to the audio reproduction of human ears.

Ribbon mics are useful for recording a variety of sources including guitar amps, choirs, brass, woodwind, and general vocal recordings for podcasts and interviews (where the dual-sided mic picks up both interviewer and guest effectively).

How Does a Ribbon Microphone Work?

A ribbon microphone is a distinctive type of dynamic microphone that uses a thin metal strip or film suspended between magnetic poles. Unlike traditional dynamic microphones, ribbon mics detect changes in air particle velocity rather than pressure.

When the ribbon vibrates within a magnetic field, it creates a slight voltage that corresponds to these velocity changes. Classic designs of ribbon mics have low output levels, which are amplified by a step-up transformer.

The choice of preamp is vital when using ribbon mics because of their unique characteristics. These microphones are known for their ability to capture swift transients due to their delicate element.

They have a wide dynamic range and can handle high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs) at high frequencies, making them ideal for recording instruments like brass or percussion.

Their bidirectional nature makes them valuable for stereo recording and for eliminating noise between two sound sources.

However, ribbon mics are sensitive and can be fragile. They are susceptible to damage from air gusts, voltage spikes, and improper storage.

Unlike moving-coil microphones, the ribbon in these mics vibrates between the magnetic poles, generating a voltage that’s perpendicular to its motion and the magnetic field.

This voltage corresponds to air particle velocity, which is why it’s often referred to as a “velocity microphone.”

The low tension of the ribbon and its resonant frequency below 20 Hz allows it to capture frequencies within the range of human hearing effectively.

While older models of ribbon mics had a low voltage output, which was addressed using step-up transformers, modern versions have a higher output due to advancements in magnets and transformers.

The ribbon microphone technology dates back to the early 1920s, with significant contributions from Drs. Walter H. Schottky, Erwin Gerlach, and Harry F. Olson.

The RCA Photophone Type PB-31, introduced in 1931, and the RCA 44A, released the following year, were instrumental in shaping the audio recording industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a ribbon mic is ideal for professional musicians looking for a warm or vintage sound for recording or live performances. When you need a warm yet clean sound, a ribbon mic usually adds the flavor and character you are looking for.

At Between-The-Keys, we hope that this guide to the best ribbon mics has helped you find the microphone that suits your performances and will last you for years to come.

The Best Ribbon Microphones & Preamps: Budget to Pro

The Best Ribbon Microphones & Preamps: Budget to Pro