Royer Labs R-12 Active Ribbon Microphone

Ideal for both studio recording and live sound applications, the new Royer R-12 active ribbon microphone delivers outstanding performance on electric and acoustic stringed instruments, vocals, brass, pianos and organs, as well as drums and percussion instruments at an easily affordable price point.

The R-12 is capable of extremely natural sound acquisition, making the microphone an exceptional choice for capturing an audio source just like it sounds to the ear with extraordinary sonic accuracy. Royer ribbons have always been known for their ability to deliver a warm sound capable of capturing the elusive nuances of the original performance. R-12 takes this capability to the next level.

Of particular note, the R-12 uses the same 2.5 micron ribbon element found in the company’s legendary R-121 microphone. This feature delivers Royer’s well-known high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) capabilities measured at 160dB @ 1kHz. With its switchable -15dB pad, the R-12 can deliver excellent headroom for louder program material such as drums and dimed electric guitars. This important feature eliminates any potential for headroom-related distortion on even the loudest sound sources.

Another notable feature of the new R-12 microphone is its onboard active electronic circuitry, which significantly increases output level for quieter sound sources such as acoustic instruments and vocals. R-12’s active electronics consistently put a perfect load on the ribbon element, enabling the microphone to deliver its full sonic potential.
The R-12 is also outfitted with a switchable High Pass filter precisely tuned to reduce low end proximity buildup, making this microphone a perfect choice for capturing louder vocal performances and close-miking of instruments and loudspeaker cabinets.

Completing its rich feature set, the R-12 houses an internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer, which helps to protect the ribbon element while also reducing handling noise. Combined with its built-in triple-layer wind screen, the microphone’s ribbon is effectively protected against plosives and other wind-related noise.

R-12 FEATURES
• Active electronics provide high output capability, optimal impedance to the
ribbon element, extremely low self-noise, and low output impedance
• -15 dB pad and high-pass filter provide flexibility and increased headroom
• High SPL capability for electric guitar, brass and other close miking applications
• Multi-layered wind screen provides superior protection to ribbon element during
vocal recordings and live use
• Internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer gives increased durability
• Ribbon element not affected by heat or humidity

RECOMMENDED APPLICATIONS
• Close miking in the studio and on live stages
• Electric & acoustic guitars
• Vocals
• Brass, horn sections
• Drum overheads, kick drum (see manual for position), room miking
• Percussion instruments
• Strings - solo & sections
• Acoustic piano

R-12 Technical Specifications

Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient with active electronics
Polar Pattern:  Figure-8
Generating Element:  2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
Magnets:  Rare Earth Neodymium (Grade 52)
Frequency Response:  30 – 15,000Hz +/- 3dB
Sensitivity:  -36dB (re. 1V/pa)
Switchable Pad:  -15dB
Switchable Bass Cut:  100Hz (6dB per octave)
Self-Noise:  < 16dB
Output Impedance: 200 ohms, balanced
Output Connector:  Male XLR 3-pin (Pin-2 hot)
Rated Load Impedance: 1k-Ohms, minimum
Maximum SPL:  > 160dB @ 1kHz, > 135dB @ 30Hz
Power Requirements:  48-Volt Phantom Power
Supply Current:  4mA
Dimensions: Length including mounting base: 8 1/4” (209.5mm) x 1 3/8” (35mm)
Weight: 462 grams (16.3oz)
Accessories:  Microphone Holder, Mic Sock, Carrying Case

Microphone Warranty:  10-year full warranty coverage on materials, workmanship, and finishes to the original owner.

  
Ribbon Element Warranty:  First re-ribbon free to the original owner within one year of purchase.

Extended Ribbon Element Policy: First re-ribbon free within five years of purchase if the microphone is registered by the original owner within one year of purchase. Microphones must be registered within one year of purchase for extended ribbon element warranty coverage.