Microphones / Active ribbon microphone

R-12

The legacy continues: an active ribbon microphone for studio recording and live sound.

Ideal for both studio recording and live sound applications, the 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.

Royer R-12 ribbon microphones, matched pair, close-up of the ribbon grille and badge

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The R-12 is capable of extremely natural sound acquisition, making it 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. The R-12 takes this capability to the next level.

The same ribbon element as the R-121

The R-12 uses the same 2.5-micron ribbon element found in Royer’s legendary R-121 microphone. This 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, eliminating any potential for headroom-related distortion on even the loudest sound sources.

Onboard active electronics

The R-12’s onboard active electronic circuitry significantly increases output level for quieter sound sources such as acoustic instruments and vocals. The 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.

A protected ribbon

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 windscreen, the microphone’s ribbon is effectively protected against plosives and other wind-related noise.

Available in matched pairs

Royer R-12 ribbon microphones, matched pair

The R-12 is available as a matched pair. Matched pairs of Royer mics are consecutively serial numbered and shipped together as a perfect match. Use a pair for stereo recording: drum overheads, acoustic piano and room miking.

Royer R-12 ribbon microphones, matched pair, full length

Features

  • Same ribbon element as the R-121
  • Internal transducer shock mount
  • Built-in triple-layer windscreen
  • 15dB pad and high pass filter switches
  • Comes with a mic mount and hard-shell carrying case
  • Available in matched pairs

Applications

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

Technical specifications

Acoustic operating principleElectrodynamic pressure gradient with active electronics
Polar patternFigure-8
Generating element2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
MagnetsRare Earth Neodymium (Grade 52)
Frequency response30 - 15,000Hz +/- 3dB
Sensitivity-36dB (re. 1V/pa)
Switchable pad-15dB
Switchable bass cut100Hz (6dB per octave)
Self-noise< 16dB
Output impedance200 ohms, balanced
Output connectorMale XLR 3-pin (Pin-2 hot)
Rated load impedance1k-Ohms, minimum
Maximum SPL> 160dB @ 1kHz, > 135dB @ 30Hz
Power requirements48-Volt Phantom Power
Supply current4mA
DimensionsLength including mounting base: 8 1/4” (209.5mm) x 1 3/8” (35mm)
Weight462 grams (16.3oz)
AccessoriesMicrophone holder, mic sock, carrying case
Microphone warranty10-year full warranty coverage on materials, workmanship, and finishes to the original owner
Ribbon element warrantyFirst re-ribbon free to the original owner within one year of purchase

Accessories and related products

US MAP $949

Studio tour · Andrew Masters

Anthony Da Costa on the R-12

This has been my favorite lately on acoustic guitar.

Anthony Da CostaPleasantville Recording, on Andrew Masters’ studio tourMore reviews