The R88mk2 is a blumlein ribbon microphones consisting of two matched bidirectional (or figure-of-8) ribbon transducers. The R88 Series microphones use the same Big Ribbon technology and tuning (16.5 Hz) as used in the classic R44. The passive R88mk2 uses the same 1:28 transformer used in all of AEA’s passive mics. With the great bass response and smooth top end AEA Big Ribbons are known for, the R88 Series delivers a solid sound stage without ever being harsh. The R88 operates with very low distortion over a huge dynamic and frequency range, with a capability of handling 165 dB SPL (R88mk2) at 1kHz. As a far-field stereo ribbon microphone, the R88 captures balanced sound from long distances. From 16 inches to 20 feet, the mic retains its full spectrum and incredible low end. (The R88A is visually distinguished by a red cable at its base)
Phantom power is not required or recommended for the passive R88. We recommend avoiding the use of phantom power with your R88 as a general rule. With a correctly wired cable and a properly working phantom power supply, there is actually little danger of damaging an R88 microphone with phantom power. However, passive ribbons such as the R88 will get hurt if ground Pin 1 is accidentally shorted, mis-wired, or hot patched in a patch bay to Pin 2 or 3. Using phantom power with a faulty or mis-wired cable or a defective supply can severely stretch or break a ribbon. Since passive ribbon microphones or other transformer-coupled microphones are particularly sensitive to phantom-power, it is recommended to make disengaging phantom-power before plugging and unplugging a habit.
AEA R88mk2 Stereo Far-Field Blumlein Ribbon Microphone Features
- Phantom-Powered AEA R88A Microphone
- Operates with very low distortion over a huge dynamic and frequency range
- Great bass response and smooth top end
- 7 milliamps phantom current draw