Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (7)
$6,999.00
Guitar Center
$6,999.00
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$6,799.00 New
$6,000.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$6,999.00
B&H
$6,999.00
Thomann
$7,799.00
Vintage King
5.0 (2)
$6,999.00

Average Price: $6,949

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "AEA A440". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the sonic richness of yesteryear with the AEA A440, a beacon of modern craftsmanship that pays homage to the legendary RCA 44-BX ribbon microphone. This stellar mic melds vintage vibes with contemporary clarity, thanks to its phantom-powered J-FET electronics and a pristine Lundahl transformer. Ideal for the discerning audio professional who craves the warmth of classic recordings but demands the precision of modern technology. Whether you're capturing the subtle nuances of a string quartet or the full-bodied roar of a guitar amp, the AEA A440 delivers unparalleled performance in a class of its own.

Key Features:

  • Phantom-powered J-FET electronics for reliable, consistent performance
  • Equipped with a high-quality Lundahl output transformer
  • Designed to capture the essence of the iconic RCA 44-BX ribbon microphone
  • Offers the perfect blend of vintage warmth and modern clarity
  • Ideal for studio recording, capturing a wide range of instruments and vocals with exceptional detail

Product specs

Brand AEA
Model A440
Finish Gray
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Microphones
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Microphone Type Ribbon
Polar Pattern Bidirectional
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the AEA A440 microphone?

The AEA A440 features a native figure-8 polar pattern, providing a consistent horizontal polar response and excellent off-axis sound rejection, which is ideal for capturing the acoustics of a room or hall.

Does the AEA A440 microphone require phantom power?

Yes, the AEA A440 is a phantom-powered ribbon microphone, utilizing JFET active electronics for enhanced performance and low noise levels.

What is the self-noise level of the AEA A440 microphone?

The AEA A440 boasts an exceptionally low equivalent noise level of 6 dB(A), making it suitable for capturing quiet sources with great detail and clarity.

How does the AEA A440 handle high sound pressure levels?

The AEA A440 can handle high SPLs up to 132.5 dB with a load of 1 k Ohm, making it versatile for recording loud instruments and vocals without distortion.

What materials are used in the construction of the AEA A440 microphone?

The AEA A440 is constructed with an investment cast bronze yoke and machined brass parts, ensuring durability and longevity, while avoiding zinc materials.

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Male Voice - Listening Library

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Male Voice - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Male Voice - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Acoustic Guitar - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Acoustic Guitar - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for WARM "WA-44 vs. AEA A440" RCA 44BX Microphone Shootout! by David DiMuzio Lessons

WARM "WA-44 vs. AEA A440" RCA 44BX Microphone Shootout!

David DiMuzio Lessons

David DiMuzio Lessons

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Female Voice - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Female Voice - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Kick Drum - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Kick Drum - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Upright Bass - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Upright Bass - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Drum Overheads - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Drum Overheads - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Video thumbnail for AEA A440 - Electric Guitar (blues) - Listening Library by AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA A440 - Electric Guitar (blues) - Listening Library

AEA Ribbon Mics

AEA Ribbon Mics

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AEA A440.

Features and functionality

  • The AEA A440 has a custom ultra high sensitivity design specifically for foley, featuring a steep high-frequency rolloff that may suit raspy, muddy voices.

    Source
  • The AEA A440 is 18dB more sensitive than the R44, allowing it to work with a wider range of preamps, enhancing its versatility in various recording settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The AEA A440's unique rolloff might be preferable for voices that don't pair well with the SM7B's presence boost, offering a different tonal balance.

    Source
  • The AEA A440 is suggested as an alternative to the Manley Tube Reference mic for those needing high-frequency rejection without sacrificing overall sound quality.

    Source
  • The AEA A440's active circuitry provides a better signal-to-noise ratio compared to passive models like the R84, making it more suitable for high-fidelity recordings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The AEA A440, recommended for its sensitivity, could be an excellent fit for broadcast or voice-over work, particularly for those seeking less high-frequency accentuation.

    Source
  • The AEA A440's increased sensitivity and active circuitry make it particularly effective for studios with a diverse range of preamps, offering more consistency in sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • Users note the AEA A440 is not typically listed and requires a special request from the manufacturer, indicating a level of exclusivity or customization.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • AEA preamps, such as the TRP, have an impedance of over 10k, ideal for pairing with the AEA A440 to maximize sound quality and minimize noise.

    Source

Build quality

  • The AEA A440 uses CineMag transformers, known for their high-performance in ribbon microphones, contributing to the microphone's premium sound quality.

    Source

Critic Reviews

AEA A440

soundonsound.com

The AEA A440 is a luxurious throwback with modern enhancements, offering a silky-smooth, warm sound that rivals the best in ribbon microphones. Its impressive built-in head-amp elevates its practicality, delivering a robust output while maintaining a remarkably low noise floor. However, its hefty price tag and need for a substantial mic stand make it a niche choice for high-end professionals with spacious, acoustically treated environments. Despite these limitations, its classic design and sonic excellence make it a coveted piece for those who can justify the investment.

positive

Field Test: AEA A440 Active Studio Ribbon Mic

mixonline.com

The AEA A440 is a remarkable ribbon microphone that impresses with its retro design and outstanding sonic performance. It excels in capturing rich, full-bodied sound with minimal noise, making it ideal for instruments like upright bass and kick drums. While it requires careful placement due to its strong proximity effect, the mic delivers an exceptional low-end response and dynamic range. Its versatility extends to vocals and various instruments, though it might not be the best fit for every acoustic guitar. Despite its hefty price tag, the A440 offers unique tonal qualities that justify the investment for niche applications.

positive

AEA A440 review on audiotechnology.com

audiotechnology.com

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul Childers uses AEA A440

Paul Childers

...
Verified via Photo

Paul Childers uses the AEA A440 microphone for recording vocals, as shown in his Instagram post where he mentions using it in a session at Blackbird Studios.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use AEA A440, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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