The Best Ribbon Mic
Table of Contents
Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Ribbon Mic
A ribbon microphone is a studio microphone that captures the warmest and most natural sound that a dynamic microphone or condenser microphone can’t quite get. Both amateurs and professionals in the recording world love ribbons thanks to the smooth sound quality that can’t be replicated.
Ribbons are definitely quite the investment. But if you’ve made sure that it’s the right purchase for you and you’re currently on the fence about picking from the many ribbons on the market, here are some excellent ribbon options for you to choose from for every need.
Which is the Top Ribbon Mic?
Golden Age Project R1 MK2The Golden Age Project R1 MK2 is dubbed as the golden standard of ribbon microphones because of its overall excellence, design, and features that professionals and amateurs can get by with. | Cloud Microphones 44-AThe Cloud 44-A is one of the few ribbon microphones left that brings vintage design and sound together while retaining versatility in functionality and features. | Røde NTRThe Røde NTR can produce a warm and opulent sound regardless of the recording application and environment you use it in. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Top Ribbon Microphone
#1. Golden Age Project R1 MK2
While the Golden Age Project was only founded in 2005, the R1 MK2 has been able to pave its way to the top. Passive ribbons like the R1 MK2 are capable of handling both larger-than-life sound sources as well as more muted and nuanced noise, making them a fantastic choice for all-around recordings.
Instrumentals, speeches, live applications, and even vocals, the R1 MK2 is the golden microphone of all ribbons.
With a frequency response of 30Hz-18kHz, a maximum SPL of 160db, and a sensitivity of -52dB at 1kHz, the R1 Mk2 can definitely take on any recording of your choice despite the environment.
However, this microphone cannot tolerate 48V phantom power so make sure that you are able to use a flathead or phantom power blocker if you’re unsure of the power source. It also pays for you to take care of the R1 MK2 properly as with any type of microphone.
Contributing to the excellent audio and pickup of the R1 MK2 is its figure-8 polar pattern. Paired with its superior materials, this microphone is able to capture opulent sound while retaining the warmth and vintage tone that one may expect from a velocity mic.
If you’re looking for something durable, affordable, and that can capture anything while retaining a warm, clear, and crisp tone, this is the perfect ribbon for you. Best of all, unlike most ribbons favored by the music industry right now, the R1 MK2 comes at a very affordable cost while retaining its superior sound and vintage appeal.
Pros and Cons of the Golden Age Project R1 MK2
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Versatile for vocals and various instruments ✔️ Excellent sound production ✔️ Affordable ✔️ Has an active version ✔️ Not fussy about the preamp | ✖️ Best to use a phantom power blocker for safety ✖️ Requires a microphone preamplifier impedance of at least 3kOhms ✖️ May sound dark at times |
#2. Cloud Microphones 44-A
The Cloud 44-A is the only active ribbon with switchable Voice/Music response curves for controlling proximity. This technology includes a switchable interface that gives you two amplifier responses that are very useful across a wide range of recording situations, with built-in Cloudlifter active electronics for a more robust output level and low-noise performance.
With that said, the Cloud 44-A is favored for professional voice and music recording.
For Voice Setting, the 44-A will be able to impressively reduce the proximity of the bass when one stands too close to the microphone. Not only does this help highlight the vocals or speech of a person, but it also helps reduce the rumble and vibration that can be picked up during the studio recording session.
However, if you want to retain the bass of your audio, then you can turn on the Music Setting. This setting will trigger the 44-A to have a full bass response at close proximity while still retaining that special velocity-type sound — meaning the warm and vintage tone that’s highly detailed.
Aside from this element that separates it from other active mics on the market, it also offers a classic ribbon sound and design inspired by the industry standards of the 1930s. One can definitely feel the vintage experience both in sound and design with the Cloud Microphones 44-A.
Pros and Cons of the Cloud Microphones 44-A
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Eye-catching design ✔️ Unique responsive curve ✔️ Comes with a shock mount ✔️ Has an interface that allows you to switch between two responses ✔️ New mount offers 180 degree range of motion ✔️ Excellent side null rejection | ✖️ Expensive price point |
#3. Røde NTR
The NTR is an active ribbon that has an extended high-frequency response and sensitivity that not most active ribbon mics can match.
With a highly sensitive 1.8-micron ribbon element, a bi-directional polar pattern, and even a customer design transformer and active electronics, the Rode NTR is superior to others of the same type.
Due to the features and parts used in the Rode NTR, it’s ideal for vocal and instrumental recording applications. It’s versatile and superior enough to capture an orchestra ensemble to a single person playing the drums. Ultimately, you are assured that you will achieve a balanced audio with the Rode NTR.
While the ribbon of the Rode NTR is one of the thinnest among ribbon types, Rode has made use of a proprietary laser technology and process to make sure that the ribbon element stays sturdy while optimized for enhanced performance.
It also helps that the Rode NTR has an internal shock mount system so you can appease your worries regarding durability and breakage. This also means you need not purchase an external shock mount so you get to save more money — a definite plus as the NTR is on the pricier side.
Made with premium mesh and featuring a very sleek body, the design of the NTR isn’t purely for style. The screw-on top prevents ribbon and shock mount movement, making travel much safer.
Pros and Cons of the Røde NTR
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Internal shock mounting system ✔️ Wide frequency range and high frequency response ✔️ Elegant design ✔️ Bi-directional polar pattern ✔️ Compatible with consumer-grade USB audio interface preamps ✔️ Has one free ribbon replacement during the warranty period ✔️ Can be used a spaced pair in playing small ensembles | ✖️ Expensive price point |
#4. Royer R-10
Royer is a brand known for making some of the best ribbons, and we’re glad they have one that comes at a fantastic price without skimping on quality — the Royer R-10.
Passive ribbon microphones like this are hard to come by at such a cost, and the Royer R-10 features a multi-layered windscreen that is fantastic for handling vocal plosives and even gusts of wind. If you’re recording an electric guitar or drum kit, the Royer R-10 is one of the best for the job.
The Royer R-10 is a studio/live mic designed for said application in stages, and it’s one that won’t leave you hanging. Due to its compact size, light weight of 0.81 lbs., and mounting system, the R-10 also allows for plenty of movement for the user because it will stay flexible while remaining unobtrusive.
The Royer R-10 has made it to a point to make their aluminum ribbon element strong and sturdy. Using a patented direct-corrugation process that will allow the said element to be protected by a 3-layer windscreen system paired with the internal shock-mounter ribbon transducer, the Royer R-10 allows you to capture voices and loud instruments without a problem.
This system also helps with rejecting electromagnetically induced noise so feel free to place the R-10 on top of amplifiers!
Speaking of loud sounds, the Royer R-10 makes use of a custom-design transform so it can withstand high overload thresholds. This means even at extremely high sound pressure levels and environments, the Royer R-10 can minimize saturation and standing waves, and even churn out comb-filtering effects. This makes the R-10 perfect for digital studio recording and live applications.
For best results, you can use an audio interface for the Royer R-10. It’s compatible with EQ units and plugins so you can further elevate your recorded track or audio. It’s no wonder why the R-10 is favored by plenty of artists both in the studio and for live applications.
Pros and Cons of the Royer R-10
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Fantastic value ✔️ Compact and high portable ✔️ 3-layered windscreen paired with an internal shock mount ✔️ 5-year warranty | ✖️ Quieter sounds may require preamps and preamp gain |
#5. Audio-Technica AT4081
The Audio-Technica AT4081 is considered one of the most trusted in the business. Unlike most velocity mics, the Audio-Technica AT4081 can be used for a very wide range of recordings thanks to its high FR, from overheads to close vocals and even from the studio to live applications.
This phantom-powered microphone with a bidirectional polar pattern promises mellow and natural sound as well as longevity, so you can definitely trust it whether you’re staying in the studio or heading out to the stage.
When it comes to design, the minimalist and sleek look of the Audio-Technica is a silent head-turner without coming off as unobtrusive. The stick shape also helps make it versatile in placement options and positions.
While it’s low-profile in design, Audio-Technica made sure to put a high priority on security and safety when it comes to protecting the ribbon element. For this reason, it has superfine mesh guards to protect the ribbon from possible damage.
Pros and Cons of the Audio-Technica AT4081
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Versatile use ✔️ Extended top end ✔️ High FR ✔️ Phantom powered | ✖️ Less suitable for beginners |
#7. Royer Labs R-121
Royer Labs has been producing ribbon microphones that are by now considered industry standard, and the R-121 model is perhaps the best example. With a weight of 0.53 lbs., the R-121 features a compact yet durable body that strays away from the standard large, heavy, and fragile ribbon microphones.
Few ribbon microphones have such a solid build as this one, and it offers excellent audio with full-body detail and classic natural character. This is why the Royer Labs R-121 is considered by many as the best for brass instruments and electric guitars.
Its reverse side also provides a brighter sound. The R-121 can handle high SPLs easily, making this all-rounder perfect for guitars as well as other sources like voices, strings, and drum overheads. It also has less proximity effect compared to other ribbons, allowing it to be suitable for close miking.
Pros and Cons of the Royer Labs R-121
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Lifetime warranty ✔️ Durable ✔️ Has a weight of 0.74 lbs., lighter compared to most ribbons ✔️ Popular to use on electric guitars and brass applications ✔️ Impressive SPL handling ✔️ Impressive maximum SPL ✔️ Flat frequency response ✔️ Less proximity effect ✔️ Can be used as a pair for overheads | ✖️ Expensive price point |
#8. Beyerdynamic M160
Ribbons are known for capturing the natural sound of vocals, but they also work well for instruments. The Beyerdynamic M160 is a double ribbon microphone that has a low-coloring character, providing precise bass reproduction and silky-smooth elegant highs.
Guitars, drums, bass, you name it, this microphone can easily handle high SPL and offers audio that can even be processed further. No wonder some musicians dub it as the only mic they’re willing to record with.
It has a hypercardioid pattern that can minimize room noise, leading to a tighter capture of the source. It’s exceptional at capturing drums, allowing the crack and weight of the snare to shine through.
Its build is excellent too. Crafted in Germany, the M160 has two hand-embossed pure aluminum strips with the right thickness. Both are then inserted into the magnetic gap with millimeter precision, and the vibration is also carefully checked. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Pros and Cons of the Beyerdynamic M160
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Double ribbons ✔️ Best for instruments ✔️ Hand-embossed pure aluminum strips ✔️ Hypercardioid pickup pattern | ✖️ Not the best for solo work like vocals ✖️ Pricey |
What Are Ribbon Mics Best For?
Also known as velocity microphones, ribbon microphones have moving parts and a magnetic field and are connected to a transformer. They have a wide array of applications and uses. Most ribbons have a figure-8 polar pattern, bi-directional, and side-address, this makes them great at capturing vocals, instruments, overheads, and even the room ambiance.
While it can capture any type of sound source, it’s best to use this sensitive microphone under partially controlled environments and locations as the ribbon element can get easily damaged if not well taken care of. Some are suited to use at greater distances, while other mics excel in capturing quiet sources.
One of the biggest advantages of using a ribbon microphone is the ability to capture highly dynamic and high-fidelity sound. If you want to capture accurate details while maintaining extremely low residual noise, then a ribbon microphone is your best bet! For this reason, a velocity microphone is a favorite for vocals and a great addition to any mic locker.
What Is the Weakness of a Ribbon Mic?
These mics are delicate as the ribbons are susceptible to damage from excessive air pressure, rough handling, or exposure to high SPLs. One should also take care when it comes to positioning and transporting them as the ribbons could get potentially damaged.
Velocity mics on the cheaper end can also have high-frequency resonances. This may not be ideal for those to want to capture sounds with precision. Sometimes, the bottom end can also seem uncontrolled.
What Can Ruin a Ribbon Mic?
Ribbon microphones are delicate and require a lot of care as a lot of factors can ruin them. Improper handling can cause a ribbon to deteriorate. If you’re moving the microphone, it should be covered with a mic sock to prevent wind from blowing through where the ribbon element is. It’s also best to store it in a case if it’s not in use. Storing them in their case or box also prevents foreign particles from moving to the narrow gap where the ribbon is suspended as they can cause ruin to the ribbon.
Direct blasts of air should also be avoided. This may come from the bass port of an electric guitar, a guitar being plugged or unplugged while the amp level is fully turned up, or an on-axis kick drum. This doesn’t mean that one shouldn’t use this type of microphone on drums or guitar amps. It’s best to position them as a spaced pair or in a way that they avoid direct wind impact.
Are Ribbon Mics Better?
Ribbon microphones follow a similar principle as dynamic microphones, in that they convert acoustic energy into electrical energy. When sound waves contact the thin metal strip, known as the ribbon, it vibrates and creates an electrical charge similar to the incoming source.
The ribbon microphone most closely recreates how the human ears hear and interpret sound, which is why they’re such a favorite when it comes to capturing both singing and instruments.
Are Ribbon Mics Still Used?
While ribbon microphones were definitely at their peak when they were introduced in the 1930s and were widely used in broadcasting until around the 1970s, they’ve found a renewed popularity in the age of digital studio recording thanks to the clear and warm sound they produce. They’re still widely used in plenty of professional recording settings.
Are Ribbon Microphones Expensive?
Velocity microphones usually command a very high price point, but this is due to their fragility yet unparalleled sound quality. They also add a certain smoothness to a track, and they are highly preferred by musicians for taming harsh-sounding instruments that sound a bit off on condensers.
While some of the best ribbon microphones out there definitely come at an expensive price, such as AEA mics, thanks to today’s technology, others are much more affordable while still retaining that classic aluminum ribbon sound. An example of an affordable one that sounds good and delivers smooth audio is the Cascade Vin-Jet.
Are Ribbon Mics Worth It?
Only ribbons can give you the best vintage design and sound, which makes them a great investment and worth purchasing. They are also known for their accuracy, which is why they’re incredibly popular despite their price. To understand further how great these mics are, let’s compare them to condenser microphones and dynamic microphones.
While a condenser microphone can deliver crisp audio, it can sometimes sound too enhanced and brittle due to its high FR. On the other hand, a dynamic microphone will give you a rounder and fuller sound, but due to this feature, the audio files can sometimes lack the rich detail you would have wanted to be picked up from your source.
Enter ribbon velocity microphones. With the ability to bring warmth and detail despite a “vintage tone”, this is the ribbon element that is unique to these mics. For a number of factors such as the figure-8 polar pattern, self-noise level, ribbon element (or the use of an aluminum strip), and frequency response of these microphones, one can produce more colors in recordings thanks to these devices.
Although other ribbons will need to use phantom power, the output impedance of these mics is still great and can still carry a sound that has a lot of character despite the added signal and gain.
Due to the figure-8 polar pattern, flat frequency response, and self-noise level of ribbon mics, they also make great recording devices for taming harsh noises. Especially with the models today where most of them have a high or maximum SPL rating, these mics can easily be placed as a spaced pair on overheads and guitar cabinets. Said Maximum SPL rating also answers the concern of many regarding the sensitivity and breakage of the aluminum strip.
It’s always good to remember though that the most expensive one isn’t necessarily the best one either. There are options on the more affordable end that can give you the kind of sound you’re looking for.
What Is the Best Ribbon Microphone?
The best one on our list is the Golden Age Projects R1 Mk2. Suited for many applications, this one is a great addition to any mic locker as it’s robust and musical. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t have a budget for an expensive preamp.
Another velocity mic that’s good is the Beyerdynamic M160. This dual-ribbon microphone has a hypercardioid polar pattern, offering a tighter sound with less room compared to other mics. The hypercardioid pattern is also helpful in minimizing room sound when capturing drums, brass, or even a guitar amp.
Are Ribbon Mics Good for Voice Over?
One of the top choices for voice-overs is the Golden Age Project R1 MK2 as it allows you to hear voices clearly. Another good choice is the Cloud 44-A as it can reduce the bass proximity when someone stands too close to it, reducing rumbles and vibration and allowing anyone to hear voices distinctly.
While not on the list, the Groove Tubes Velo 8 is also good for voices as it offers a leveled, dark, and rolled-off top end.
Final Note
Although the best velocity-type mics will vary from one person to another, we can all generally agree that the best ribbon microphones in the market should be able to work for a range of scenarios. For this reason, it pays to browse through and research well on the best ones so you will be sure that you are purchasing the right microphone for you. After all, a premium velocity mic can take you a long way when you know what you need it for, and you can definitely get the best audio you’ve ever recorded.
If you’re looking for something that can capture the most natural-sounding audio, then a ribbon is definitely for you.

Editor’s Choice
Golden Age Project R1 MK2
The R1 MK2 is a vintage-style passive mic with a bidirectional polar pattern. This passive mic has low sensitivity and high SPL capability meaning it can deliver a smooth and mellow sound that’s perfect for singing and instrumentals.
This is considered one of the best ribbon microphones on the market that can be used by both beginners and professionals thanks to its versatility and capability to capture both loud and softer noises.
So whether you’re capturing a single voice or an orchestra, this Golden Age Project R1 MK2 is the best velocity-type microphone that has you covered on all bases.