Datasheet

The R-121 is a thoroughly modern ribbon microphone
designed for today's studio and live environments, exhibiting a
flat frequency response and well balanced, panoramic sound
field. Its ability to withstand 135 dB SPL @ 30 Hz makes it
ideal for applications that were previously considered off limits
to ribbon microphones.
The R-121 was developed through relatively recent advance-
ments in magnetics, materials and mechanical construction
techniques. The ribbon element's smooth frequency response
and phase linearity, coupled with sensitivity levels surpassing
those of "classic" ribbons, make this microphone an ideal choice
for digital recording. The R-121 delivers a consistent, natural acous-
tical performance with stunning realism. Widely used on electric guitars,
brass instruments and drums, the R-121's figure-8 pattern also conveys
superb ambiance and depth when used for room miking applications,
orchestral and choral recordings.
The heart of the R-121 is its low mass, 2.5-micron, pure (99.99%) aluminum
ribbon element. The R-121’s unique, patented offset-ribbon transducer
assembly incorporates rare earth Neodymium magnets in a specially
designed flux-frame, which forms a powerful magnetic field while reducing
unwanted stray magnetic radiation.
The R-121’s offset-ribbon design positions the ribbon element towards the
front of the microphone body, which allows for higher SPL handling on the
front (logo) side and the option of a brighter response when recording lower
SPL sound sources on the back side (3 feet and closer; phase reversed in
this position).
R-121 FEATURES
• High SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussion
• No internal active electronics to overload or produce distortion up
to maximum SPL rating
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element unaffected by heat or humidity
• Absence of high frequency peaks, "ringing" and phase shifts
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of element
• Gold plated XLR contacts
RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS
• Close miking
• Electric & acoustic guitar
• Drum overheads, kick drum (see manual for position), room miking
• Percussion instruments
• Brass, horn sections
• Strings - solo & sections
• Acoustic piano
• Vocals
• Live events – recording and sound reinforcement
Actual size