Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$599.00
Reverb
$579.16 New
$498.00 Used
Thomann
4.5 (2)
$575.00 $572.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $578

Standard/Professional

$499

$1500+

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Golden Age Premier R1A Active Ribbon Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Golden Age Premier R1A Active Ribbon Microphone is a sophisticated blend of vintage charm and modern durability, designed for today's discerning audio professionals. This microphone builds upon the acclaimed R1 Active, incorporating premium components like the Swedish-made Lundahl 1927A transformer and a discrete amplifier with Wima film and Nichicon electrolytic capacitors. These enhancements deliver an exceptionally realistic sound that captures the nuances of any performance.

Whether you're recording vocals, guitar cabs, or drums, the R1A Premier's high sensitivity and impressive 160dB SPL handling make it an indispensable tool in both studio and live settings. Its active circuitry effortlessly powers long cable runs, ensuring consistent performance across varied environments. The figure-8 polar pattern provides a wide sweet spot with excellent side rejection, while the switchable highpass filter and 10dB pad offer versatile control over your recordings.

Ideal for musicians and audio engineers seeking a versatile microphone that delivers both power and precision, the Golden Age Premier R1A brings vintage ribbon warmth into the modern era.

Key Features:

  • Upgraded components for ultra-realistic sound
  • Active circuitry for long cable runs
  • Handles SPLs up to 160dB
  • High sensitivity for condenser-like sound
  • Figure-8 polar pattern with side rejection
  • Switchable highpass filter
  • 10dB pad to maintain signal integrity
  • Requires +48V phantom power

Product specs

Microphone Type Ribbon
Ribbon Type 2-micron Aluminum (5mm x 50mm)
Mono/Stereo Mono
Polar Pattern Figure-8
Frequency Response 30Hz-18kHz ±3dB
Max SPL 160dB SPL (1% THD @ 1kHz)
Pads -10dB
Output Impedance 200 ohms
Self Noise <18dB (A weighted)
Sensitivity -40dBV/Pa @ 1kHz
Connector XLR
Power Source 48V phantom power
Dimensions 7.28" x 2.71"
Weight 1.8 lbs.
Included Accessories Carry Bag

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the Golden Age Premier R1A microphone?

The Golden Age Premier R1A features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and rear while rejecting sound from the sides, making it ideal for recording environments with multiple sound sources.

Does the Golden Age Premier R1A require phantom power?

Yes, the Golden Age Premier R1A is an active ribbon microphone that requires 48V phantom power to operate, unlike passive ribbon microphones that do not need external power.

What is the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) the Golden Age Premier R1A can handle?

The Golden Age Premier R1A can handle a maximum SPL of 160dB, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources without distortion.

How does the Golden Age Premier R1A's frequency response affect its sound quality?

The Golden Age Premier R1A has a frequency response of 30Hz-18kHz ±3dB, providing a balanced and natural sound, ideal for vocals and instruments, capturing both low and high frequencies effectively.

What type of ribbon is used in the Golden Age Premier R1A microphone?

The Golden Age Premier R1A uses a 2-micron aluminum ribbon, which is designed to deliver a smooth and warm sound characteristic of classic ribbon microphones.

Christian Svedin

Christian Svedin

GAP R1A |Brand NEW Active Ribbon Mic I DRMS/VOX/AC. GTR examples

Video thumbnail for GAP R1A |Brand NEW Active Ribbon Mic I DRMS/VOX/AC. GTR examples by Christian Svedin

GAP R1A |Brand NEW Active Ribbon Mic I DRMS/VOX/AC. GTR examples

Christian Svedin

Christian Svedin

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, natural sound ideal for a variety of instruments

  • Excellent for drum and guitar cab recordings

  • Works well with stereo recording techniques like Blumlein and Glyn Johns

  • Smooth high-frequency roll-off prevents harshness

  • Compatible with other mics like SM57 for enhanced sound capture

  • Great performance on saxophone with minimal mechanical noise

CONS

  • Initial quality control issues with highpass switch reported

  • Not ideal for bass-heavy sources due to sensitivity

  • Room acoustics significantly affect recording quality due to figure-of-8 pattern

  • Short XLR cable might require additional purchases

Critic Reviews

Golden Age Premier R1A

soundonsound.com

Golden Age's Premier R1A Active Ribbon Microphone delivers a vintage charm with contemporary upgrades like premium electronics. While it impresses with its extended top-end and solid construction, it struggles with higher self-noise than competitors like the Rode NTR. The classic design choices are appealing, but the mic's mounting and cabling could be more refined. Overall, it offers a balanced sound for various applications, but the price may have you questioning the value of its upgrades.

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