The Royer R-10 Matched Pair is two R-10 passive figure-8 ribbon microphones, supplied by Royer Labs as a matched set for stereo recording. Each mic has the 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon used in the R-121, handles more than 160 dB SPL at 1 kHz, and protects its ribbon with a three-layer windscreen and an internally shock-mounted transducer. Both mics are hand-built in Burbank, California.

Stereo Setups

Two figure-8 mics cover the classic coincident techniques: a Blumlein pair crossed at 90 degrees, or a mid-side array, where recording mid and side on separate tracks lets you set the stereo width at mixdown. Royer's manual also suggests a spaced pair over the bass and treble strings of a piano, an X-Y pair near the soundboard, and a pair 4 to 6 feet above a drum kit. A pair of R-10s beside a Leslie cabinet is another of Royer's suggestions.

Features

• Two R-10 passive ribbon microphones, sold as a matched pair
• Figure-8 pattern suited to Blumlein and mid-side stereo
• 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon, the same element used in the R-121
• Handles over 160 dB SPL at 1 kHz
• Three-layer windscreen protects the ribbon from air blasts and plosives
• Internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer
• Custom Royer transformer resists overload at high SPL
• Humbucking transducer wiring for very low residual noise
• Patented offset-ribbon design with a brighter back side
• Ribbon element unaffected by heat or humidity

Specifications

• Quantity: 2 microphones, matched pair
• Operating principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient
• Polar pattern: Figure-8
• Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
• Magnets: Rare earth neodymium (grade 52)
• Frequency response: 30 Hz to 15 kHz, +/- 3 dB
• Sensitivity: -54 dBV (re. 1 V/Pa)
• Output impedance: 100 ohms
• Recommended load impedance: 700 ohms or greater
• Maximum SPL: Over 160 dB at 1 kHz, over 135 dB at 50 Hz
• Output connector: 3-pin male XLR (pin 2 hot)
• Dimensions: 149 mm (5 7/8 in) long including mounting base, 35 mm (1 3/8 in) wide
• Weight: 368 g (13 oz)
• Warranty: Five years; first re-ribbon free to the original owner within the first year

In the Box

• 2 x Royer R-10 ribbon microphone (matched pair)
• 2 x swivel microphone mount
• 2 x mic sock
• Aluminum carrying case