AEA R44C

Whether it was the smooth brass section of the soundtrack of a classic Hollywood film, the velvety lushness of a jazz vocal or the larger-than-life drum sound of a classic rock recording, chances are an RCA 44-series ribbon microphone was used in the studio when the sound was created.

In use for more than 80 years in recording and broadcast studios throughout the world, the RCA 44 ribbon design is as rich in history as it is in sound and character. This instantly recognizable sound produces thunderous lows due to the strong proximity effect, full and rich midrange and a unique top end taking the edge off of harsh instruments.

In 1976, AEA decided to begin servicing the thousands of existing RCA ribbon mics in the world. By 1998, AEA had acquired 100 percent of the interchangeable parts used within the original RCA 44. That same year we debuted our R44 reissue - called the AEA R44C - using RCA's original methods and techniques.

THE LEGENDARY BIG RIBBON SOUND The AEA R44 maintains an iconic legacy of great ribbon mics by delivering a rich sound full of character and color.

Effective on a broad range of instruments and rooms, the R44 bolsters mids and lows while smoothing harsh high frequencies to produce a multi-dimensional sound unlike that of any microphone the world over.

Used on everything from crooning vocalists to full orchestras, the R44 is the ideal choice to capture the tone of any voice or instrument while imparting its legendary ribbon character.

DIFFERENT OUTSIDES, THE SAME SOUND Our R44 Series microphones all share the authentic sound, feel and look of the 1936-38 RCA 44BX. The R44 series microphones are all detailed, hand-crafted replicas, using parts that are made to be interchangeable with an original RCA 44. We manufacture three different versions of the R44 and an optional hotrod.

At the core, every version of the R44 sounds the same when powered with a ribbon preamp. The major differences between the versions are the exterior look and the amount of output level.

• Unparalleled warmth and legendary character

• Full and rich tonality with generous low end and proximity effect

• Faithful reproduction of the RCA R44BX with new old stock RCA ribbon material

• Economy exterior R44CE exhibits same, classic sound

• Active A440 upgrade has 18dB level increase and is optimized for all preamps

• Made in the U.S.A.

Operating Principle: Pressure gradient microphone

Directional Pattern: Bidirectional (Figure-of-8)

Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 15 kHz

Maximum SPL: 165+ dBSPL (1% third harmonic > 1 kHz)

Output Sensitivity: 2.25 mV/Pa (-53 dBV) into unloaded circuit

Output Impedance: 270 nominal

Recommended Load Impedance: 1.2 k or greater

Powering: Not required or recommended

Polarity: Pin 2 high for positive pressure on front of microphone.

Connector: XLR-3M wired to a 3 m captive cable

OFF AXIS RESPONSE:

Polar Pattern: Native bi-directional pattern

Horizontal: Level changes with angle, frequency response is consistent, -35 dB null at 90 / 270

Vertical: Level changes with angle, reduced HF response above and below 0 / 180 axis, -35 dB null at 90 / 270

TRANSDUCER ELEMENT:

Ribbon Thickness: 1.8 (0.0000018 m) of pure aluminum

Ribbon Width: 0.185" (4.7 mm)

Ribbon Length: 2.35" (59.7 mm)

ACCESSORIES:

Included: Custom storage / shipping case, stand adapter, manual

Optional: Any length cable, inquire for price and delivery.

Limited Warranty: One year parts and labor, shipping not included.

Three year extended warranty if the product is registered.

DIMENSION:

Weight with case: 7 lb 9 oz (3.43 kg)

Height: 12.25" (31.1 cm)

Width: 4.62" (11.7 cm)

Depth: 3.25" (8.3 cm)