Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$599.00
Reverb
$539.36 New
$425.00 Used
Thomann
4.6 (7)
$599.00 $533.00 $66.00 · All time low

Average Price: $549

Standard/Professional

$499

$1500+

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Standard

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Golden Age Project R1 ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Golden Age Project R1 ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone is a versatile tool for any recording studio, offering the rich, warm tones that only ribbon microphones can deliver. With its Blumlein configuration, this microphone captures immersive stereo recordings with incredible depth and width, making it perfect for capturing orchestras, choirs, or the ambiance of live rooms. The R1 ST is equipped with two figure-8 ribbon elements, allowing it to switch seamlessly between stereo and mono recording setups.

Engineered to handle sound pressure levels up to 160dB, this microphone is robust enough for loud sound sources, from roaring guitar amps to the thunderous dynamics of drum kits. The passive design ensures no need for phantom power, preserving the natural, smooth quality of your audio. Each mic element can be utilized individually, offering flexibility in recording setups.

Included with the R1 ST is a detachable cable and a splitter box, providing left and right outputs for easy integration into any studio environment. The microphone also comes with a shockmount and two transport cases (hard and soft), ensuring durability and easy mobility for on-the-go sessions.

Key Features:

  • Dual-element ribbon microphone in Blumlein configuration
  • High SPL handling up to 160dB
  • Transformer-balanced output for warm, musical tones
  • Detachable cable with splitter box for left and right outputs
  • Includes shockmount and two transport cases (hard and soft)

Product specs

Microphone Type Ribbon
Ribbon Type Dual 2-micron Aluminum, 50mm long
Mono/Stereo Stereo
Polar Pattern Crossed Figure-8 (Blumlein)
Max SPL 160dB SPL
Connector XLR
Included Accessories Shockmount, splitter box, 2 x transport cases

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the Golden Age Project R1 ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone?

The Golden Age Project R1 ST features a crossed figure-8 (Blumlein) polar pattern, which is ideal for capturing a natural stereo image with depth and dimension, making it suitable for various stereo recording applications.

Is the Golden Age Project R1 ST suitable for high SPL environments?

Yes, the Golden Age Project R1 ST can handle a maximum SPL of 160dB, making it capable of recording loud sound sources without distortion, such as drums or amplified instruments.

What type of connector does the Golden Age Project R1 ST use?

The Golden Age Project R1 ST uses an XLR connector, which is standard for professional audio equipment and ensures secure and high-quality signal transmission.

Does the Golden Age Project R1 ST come with any accessories?

Yes, the Golden Age Project R1 ST includes a shockmount, a splitter box, and two transport cases, providing protection and convenience for both studio and mobile recording setups.

What makes the Golden Age Project R1 ST different from other ribbon microphones?

The Golden Age Project R1 ST is unique due to its stereo configuration and crossed figure-8 polar pattern, allowing it to capture a rich and detailed stereo image, which is less common in traditional mono ribbon microphones.

Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Project R 1 ST stereo ribbon microphone

Video thumbnail for Golden Age Project R 1 ST stereo ribbon microphone by Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Project R 1 ST stereo ribbon microphone

Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Captures a unique stereo spread, great for ambient recordings

  • Warm, rich sound without excessive brightness, ideal for pianos and drums

  • Excellent for room and overhead drum recordings

  • Versatile, works well with acoustic instruments, horns, and guitar amps

  • Offers impressive sound quality at an affordable price

  • Robust build quality and elegant design

  • Easy Blumlein configuration for quick positioning

  • Comes with a sturdy tweed case and padded nylon bag for protection

CONS

  • Extremely large and heavy, requires a substantial mic stand

  • Low output, often needs a preamp or signal booster

  • Connection box can have quality control issues, like loose screws

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Golden Age Project R1 ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone.

Use cases and applications

  • The Golden Age Project R1 MKII is praised for its clarity and smoothness on mono drum overheads and acoustic guitar, with a preference for its passive version.

    Source
  • For jazz and soul genres, the R1 MKII's darker tone is beneficial, especially as drum overheads in small rooms to reduce cymbal harshness.

    Source
  • The Golden Age Project Ribbon is favored for vocals and percussion, especially for tenors, offering a smooth, sweet treatment without extensive post-processing.

    Source
  • Owners frequently use the R1 MKII for drum room duties, percussion overdubs, guitar amps, horns, and vocals, showcasing its versatility.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The R1 MKII requires a loud source or a high-gain preamp due to its passive nature, with active variants offering more gain and presence.

    Source
  • Ribbon mics, including the Golden Age Project, typically have figure-8 pickup patterns, making them sensitive to room acoustics and benefiting from proper room treatment or placement adjustments.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Golden Age Project R1 MKII is considered similar to Coles in response, but less dark than typical ribbons, making it versatile for a range of instruments.

    Source
  • The Golden Age Project R1 is noted to sound similar to Coles 4038, providing a smooth, even result across various instruments, although it may lack the "sparkle" for modern pop vocals.

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  • The Golden Age Project R1 MKII is noted to be brighter than the Coles 4038 and more akin to an RCA 77 in tonal character.

    Source

Build quality

  • The R1 MKII's build is described as slightly flimsy, with the yoke being prone to breaking, though it still delivers great sound quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The R1 MKII is often highlighted as the best cheap ribbon, offering a smooth, clear sound at an accessible price point compared to more expensive alternatives.

    Source
  • Users highlight the Golden Age Project R1 as a budget-friendly alternative to higher-end ribbons, delivering quality sound comparable to more expensive models like Coles and Royers.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report needing high-impedance preamps for optimal performance, as the R1 MKII's passive design requires substantial clean gain.

    Source
  • Owners report that ribbon mics, including the Golden Age Project, excel in capturing natural sounds, offering depth and usability in recordings, and are well-suited for EQ adjustments.

    Source
  • Users have successfully used the R1 MKII on various instruments and vocals, confirming its status as a high-performing Chinese manufactured ribbon mic.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The yoke adjustment on the Golden Age Project R1 MKII is limited by the XLR placement, affecting positioning flexibility.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Golden Age Project R1ST

soundonsound.com

Golden Age’s R1ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone offers a commendable entry to Blumlein and Mid-Sides recording with a respectable sound at an affordable price. However, its high preamp demands might be a stretch for typical budget mixers, and its weight and build quality reflect its lower price point. While its frequency response impresses, the mic lacks the refined sound of pricier models like the Royer SF-12. Suitable for studio applications like drum kits and guitar amps, it’s a practical tool despite its size and less-than-premium build. A solid choice for those exploring stereo ribbon mics without breaking the bank.

Golden Age Project R1 ST Review - 2 Ribbons in 1

musictech.com

The Golden Age Project R1 ST Stereo Ribbon Microphone is a versatile studio tool that delivers a smooth, warm, and detailed sound, especially excelling with acoustic instruments and drum overheads. Its design emulates classic RCA ribbon mics, utilizing a Blumlein stereo configuration for a stable stereo image. While it impresses with its sweet top-end and rich midrange, the mic's fragile ribbons demand careful handling, and its low sensitivity requires a robust preamplifier. Perfect for stereo recordings without phase issues, it’s a worthy addition for those who cherish a touch of vintage warmth.

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