User guide

cellent results with your R-122 active ribbon microphone. Unlike

standard ribbon microphones, which depend on a proper imped-

ance match to deliver optimal performance, the input impedance

of your preamplifier will have minimal affect on the R-122’s op-

erational performance because the ribbon element is isolated from

the outside world via the microphone’s electronics package.

Careful consideration should be given to the quality of the micro-

phone preamplifier. Studio grade preamplifiers usually sound

much better than cheap ones. Headroom, noise floor, transparency

and coloration are all factors to consider in determining which

preamplifier is suitable for your studio or live sound application.

Other features are usually secondary and fall into the category of

conveniences or interface capabilities (such as digital or optical

outputs). A good preamplifier should sound natural with no sign

of edginess or excessive noise. Vacuum tube preamplifiers sound

warm, yet wonderfully airy and transparent. Do not expect a vac-

uum tube preamplifier to be as quiet as a solid-state preamp, as

electron emissions from tubes tend to convey more “thermal”

noise than transistors. Transformer coupled designs tend to sound

punchy and full-bodied and offer the added benefit of true elec-

tronic isolation. This greatly enhances their ability to interface

with other equipment with minimal noise or hum. There are many

excellent preamplifiers on the market today. Choose one that fits

your budget and offers good performance, but remember that you

get what you pay for. If you have the opportunity to audition one

or more preamplifiers before you buy one, do so. Microphones

and preamplifiers work together like a team and some are just bet-

ter matches than others.

The R-122 active ribbon microphone is capable of substantial out-

put signal, especially if used in conjunction with very loud signal

sources such as guitar amplifiers. It is therefore recommended

that the microphone preamplifier have a switchable pad to prevent

the possibility of overloading the preamplifier’s input stage elec-

tronics. Some preamplifiers are more thoughtfully designed than

others, and a suitable pad will be provided before the active elec-

tronics, not incorporated into a “feedback loop” as some cheaper