The Royer R-121 is Royer Labs' flagship passive figure-8 ribbon microphone, introduced in the 1990s and still a first choice for electric guitar cabinets in studios and on live stages. Its 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon handles more than 160 dB SPL at 1 kHz, so it can face a wide-open amp or a trumpet played full out, and it captures fingerpicked acoustic guitar, harp and flute with the same natural detail. The body is compact and light, which makes it easy to position.

Two Sounds From One Mic

Royer's patented offset-ribbon transducer sets the ribbon closer to the front (logo) side. From the front, the ribbon has room to move on loud sources and keeps its full frequency response. The back side gives a brighter pickup at close range that suits acoustic instruments and vocals; reverse the polarity at the preamp or in your DAW when you use it. With no active electronics, there is nothing to overload below the maximum SPL.

Where to Use It

Royer lists electric guitar amps, brass and horn sections, drum rooms, kick drum, woodwinds, percussion, acoustic piano, acoustic guitar, strings, choirs and orchestras, and broadcast. Royer recommends its Sling-Shock shock mount and the dBooster in-line booster as companions.

Features

• Passive figure-8 ribbon microphone
• 2.5-micron, 99.99% pure aluminum ribbon
• Handles over 160 dB SPL at 1 kHz
• Patented offset-ribbon transducer with a brighter back side
• No active electronics to overload or distort up to the maximum SPL
• Rare earth neodymium magnets in Royer's flux-frame design
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element unaffected by heat or humidity
• Gold-plated XLR contacts
• Hand-built in Burbank, California

Specifications

• Operating principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient
• Polar pattern: Figure-8
• Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
• Magnets: Rare earth neodymium
• Frequency response: 30 Hz to 15 kHz, +/- 3 dB
• Sensitivity: -47 dBV (re. 1 V/Pa)
• Output impedance: 300 ohms at 1 kHz (nominal)
• Rated load impedance: 1,500 ohms or greater
• Maximum SPL: Over 160 dB at 1 kHz, over 135 dB at 20 Hz
• Output connector: 3-pin male XLR (pin 2 hot), gold-plated contacts
• Dimensions: 155.7 mm (6.13 in) long, 25 mm (1 in) wide
• Weight: 244 g (8.6 oz)
• Finish: Dull satin nickel

In the Box

• Royer R-121 ribbon microphone
• Protective wood case
• Mic sock