Offering the classic tone of the massive RCA 44BX with less proximity effect in a more compact, lightweight, and affordable form, the USA-made AEA Ribbon Mics R84 is a welcome solution for engineers, producers, and musicians in need of a smooth, detailed, and full-sounding ribbon mic that can handle extreme SPLs and an array of voices and instruments in close-range and distant applications. Utilizing a 2.35" long ribbon and a bidirectional figure-8 polar pattern, the R84 delivers a blend of vintage ribbon character and top-end extension along with up to 90 dB of rejection at the sides.

The 10' attached cable is terminated with a standard XLR 3-pin male connector for hookup to virtually any microphone preamp, no phantom power required. High-gain, high-impedance preamps are recommended for optimal microphone performance. The integrated yoke-style cushion mount reduces bulkiness while ensuring ease of positioning in the studio.

Inspired by RCA 44BX    Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar Pattern    R44 Tone with Less Proximity Effect    Works in Close-Range or Ambient Use    Handles SPLs up to 165 dB    Passive Design Requires No Phantom Power    More Compact & Lightweight than R44    10' Attached Cable with XLR Connector    Integrated Yoke-Style Cushion Mount    Made in the USA

In 2000, AEA sought to design a more compact, lightweight, and economic version of the hefty, eight-pound RCA 44BX. The result was the R84, which retains the best traits of the 44 series in a lower cost, three-pound package. R84 series ribbon microphones deliver the classic tonality of the legendary R44, with extended top-end and reduced proximity effect for mid- and close-range recording.

The R84 and original RCA 44 (now the AEA R44C) share the same Big Ribbon element, transformer, and other mechanical elements by design. By using updated design techniques and stronger, more compact magnets, the R84 retains the classic RCA ribbon sound.

The R84 boasts improvements on the 44 design—more manageable proximity effect, more extended top-end, vibration isolation, and greater maneuverability on small stages and in small studios. The microphone's U-shaped yoke acts as a shockmount and enables the user to position the R84 at various angles, even on a straight mic stand.

The R84 series quickly endears itself to engineers and musicians due to its remarkably expansive frequency range, complete with sweeping highs and booming lows. The smooth, high-frequency roll-off and reduced sibilance of the R84 make it a top choice for engineers when tracking vocals or other instruments that often sound harsh when recorded with condenser mics.

The R84's balanced and manageable proximity effect bolsters the low-end of vocals, drums, and brass, from just feet away. A ribbon mic as multi-purpose, lightweight, and maneuverable as the R84 is well-suited for both close-range and ambient mic applications. The R84's accentuated midrange captures the unique qualities of many instruments with detailed elegance. R84 series mics perform well on practically any voice or musical instrument, making them highly useful in recording and broadcast studios.

Since the R84 is a passive ribbon microphone, a good preamp is critical for optimum performance. Preamp gain should be at least +60 dB or higher and it should have a very-high impedance. These requirements are vital for the ideal performance of any ribbon mic.

To guarantee consistent, full-range ribbon sound with the passive R84, preamps designed specifically for ribbon microphones (such as AEA's RPQ2, RPQ500, and TRP2 preamps) are available separately. However, preamps with above a 5-Kilohm impedance found in many live soundboards are adequate for guitar amps and other louder instruments. On quiet sound sources or for distance recording, an AEA preamp is highly recommended.

• Warm, smooth, and detailed classic ribbon sound
• Full and rich tonality with generous highs and lows
• Sonically similar to the legendary R44 Series, with less proximity effect
• Handles SPLs up to 165 dB
• Versatile in close-range or ambient applications
• Made in the USA

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Would this work for the Cmit 5u?

A: Yes, the Rycote INV-Lite 21 Boom Shockmount for Short Shotgun Mics is compatible for use with the Schoeps CMIT 5U Shotgun Microphone.

Q: 2. What about the Selectronics SE08 with a Mic Diameter 23 mm (0.91 in.), would this still fit into a 22 mm BBG?

A: No, the Rycote 011002 BBG Windshield for Handheld or Boom-Mounted Interview Mics is intended for use with microphones that have a 22mm diameter. It will not fit a microphone with a 23mm diameter.

Q: 3. What size is needed for an AT4053B?

A: You can use the Rycote BBG 0.82" version with the AT4053b .

Q: 4. Which version of the Super Softie works well with the Sanken CS- M1? The Rycote website doesn't include this mic.

A: The Rycote 5cm Super-Softie Windshield (BH #RYSS51922) would be appropriate for the Sanken CS-M1.

Q: 5. Would this work on the Deity S-Mic 2S?

A: Yes, the dimensional specifications of the Rycote Super Softie Windshield for Shotgun Mic (4.7" Long, 0.7 to 0.9" Diameter) match the size of the Deity Microphones S-Mic 2S Moisture-Resistant Short Shotgun Microphone and the two should work well together.

Q: 6. will this work with mkh 416 mic?

A: The INV-Lite 19 will fit the 19mm diameter of the MKH 416, but it is designed for use with short shotgun microphones like the 8060, 8050, 8040 or 8020 which are between 75 to 178mm (2.95 to 7.01") long. The MKH 416 is 249.9mm (9.84") long. For a similar style shockmount, consider the Rycote INV-7 InVision Microphone Suspension for Stand and Boompole Mounting (B&H # RYINV7) which is designed for use with shotgun mics that are 120mm (4.72") and longer or the Rycote Universal Shotgun Mount for Cameras and Boompoles (B&H # RYUSGM) which is a universal model.

Q: 7. I'm looking for an indoor and outdoor mount (with light wind protection). This looks like a good option. What makes it more ideal for indoor use?

A: Rycote is a very respected brad and offer may choices; see below link to options. Indoor use does not require a furry or a blimp. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1544187-REG/rycote_41138_invision_on_camera_universal_shotgun.html https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/629485-REG/Rycote_042901_InVision_Video_Hot_Shoe.html For outdoor use: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/225595-REG/Rycote_033032_Standard_Hole_Softie_Windscreen.html

Q: 8. Will these work with the LOM basicUcho mics? https://store.lom.audio/products/basicucho?variant=41645264011422

A: Yes, the Rycote BBG Windshield is compatible with the LOM basicUcho mic.

Q: 9. Does your current stock include the upgrade pack (i.e., Rycote Upgrade Pack for INV-Lite Shock Mount)? ... simply, plastic sleeve for metal that appear standard now on Rycotes website.

A: Yes. As an authorized Rycorte dealer we are offering the same updated products.

Q: 10. Does any of those works for rode nt4?

A: Unfortunately even the largest Rycote BBG Windshield (0.98" diameter) would be too narrow for the Rode NT4 (1.3" diameter).