Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $160

Budget/Beginner

$499

$1500+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the harmonious blend of vintage and modern with the ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone, crafted for musicians and sound engineers who demand acoustic excellence. This microphone captures the incredibly clear, open, and natural tone reminiscent of classic ribbon microphones, while its active electronics provide the reliability and performance akin to a condenser.

Designed with a rugged low-profile, the AR5 is perfect for both studio and live environments. Its dual capsule design ensures a higher output and stable impedance, making it compatible with a wide range of high-end preamps. Whether you're capturing the subtle nuances of a vocal performance or the dynamic range of a guitar amp, this microphone delivers with precision.

The AR5 can handle high sound pressure levels, reaching up to 150dB, thanks to its low-tension 2-micron aluminum ribbon. This ensures smooth and natural audio reproduction with an extended frequency response. The asymmetrical figure-8 pickup pattern enhances the recording's ability to capture natural space and ambient reverberation, providing an authentic sound stage.

Encased in precision-tooled brass with a dent-resistant stainless-steel wire-mesh windscreen, the AR5 exudes durability and sophistication. The included shock-mount minimizes vibration and handling noise, allowing you to focus solely on the sound. Whether you're in a bustling studio or a serene live room, the ART AR5 is your bridge to sonic purity.

Key Features:

  • Dual capsule design with integrated active electronics
  • Handles sound pressure levels up to 150dB
  • Low-tension 2-micron aluminum ribbon for extended frequency response
  • Asymmetrical figure-8 pickup pattern
  • Precision-tooled brass chassis with stainless-steel wire-mesh windscreen
  • Includes shock-mount for vibration and handling noise reduction

Product specs

Brand ART
Model AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone
Year 2017 - 2025
Made In China
Categories Microphones
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Microphone Type Ribbon
Polar Pattern Bidirectional
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary application for the ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone?

The ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone is primarily designed for studio recording, offering a warm, natural sound ideal for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sources where a smooth, detailed response is desired.

What is the polar pattern of the ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone, and what does it mean for recording?

The ART AR5 features a bidirectional polar pattern, which means it picks up sound equally from the front and back while rejecting noise from the sides, making it suitable for capturing room ambiance or two-way interviews.

How does the dual ribbon construction of the ART AR5 affect its performance?

The dual ribbon construction enhances the sensitivity of the ART AR5, allowing it to capture subtle nuances and detail in sound sources, making it ideal for high-fidelity recordings.

Does the ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone require phantom power?

Yes, the ART AR5 requires phantom power due to its integrated active electronics, which provide improved stability and increased output.

Is the ART AR5 suitable for live sound applications?

While the ART AR5 is primarily designed for studio use, its compact design and robust build make it capable of handling live sound applications, provided the environment is controlled to minimize potential feedback.

Reviews

PROS

  • Smooth, natural sound not as dark as traditional ribbon mics

  • Active electronics provide ample output, reducing need for extra gain

  • Strong build quality, surprising for the price point

  • Captures speaker face area nicely when used for miking

  • Considered a great hidden value and versatile for various applications

CONS

  • Shock mount design is not favored by some users

  • Requires upright storage to prevent potential ribbon sagging

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone.

Use cases and applications

  • The ART AR5 is used effectively with a Scarlett Solo interface for recording trumpet, providing good sound quality for entry-level users.

    Source
  • The ART AR5 pairs well with an SM57 for guitar cabinet recordings, particularly in heavy metal settings.

    Source
  • The ART AR5 active ribbon mic is recommended for voices with a strong lower register, potentially enhancing the depth of a deep voice.

    Source

User experience

  • A user shared unedited recordings to demonstrate the ART AR5's performance, indicating satisfaction with its raw sound output.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ART AR5 was considered alongside the Sterling ST170 and Golden R1 MKIII, implying it competes well in the entry-level active ribbon mic category.

    Source
  • The ART AR5 is noted as a "very dark mic," which could result in an overpowering low end on deep voices, unlike the brighter Sennheiser e835a or Shure Beta 58a.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The ART AR5 is priced around $150 Canadian, which aligns it as a budget-friendly active ribbon mic option.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Requires 48V phantom power due to its active ribbon design, offering a distinct advantage over passive ribbon mics that need high-gain preamps.

    Source
  • The ART AR5's dark tonal quality is highlighted, suggesting its suitability for specific vocal characteristics but potentially overwhelming deep voices with its strong low-frequency response.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Active Ribbon Microphones

soundonsound.com

The ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone delivers vintage ribbon charm with modern convenience. Its active output stage ensures consistent performance across various inputs, and its frequency response surpasses many older designs. Withstanding up to 150dB SPL, it's built for durability, featuring a rugged body and a steel mesh grille that protect against handling noise and vibrations. While offering classic sonic qualities, some may find its features standard in comparison to pricier competitors. However, at a budget-friendly price, it offers excellent value for those seeking reliable ribbon mic performance.

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