Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $1,990
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$499
$1500+
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Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Royer R-122 MkII Active Ribbon Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Royer R-122 MkII Active Ribbon Microphone is a game-changer in the world of ribbon mics, designed to deliver supreme versatility and sonic excellence. As the upgraded version of the groundbreaking R-122, it builds upon its legacy with innovative features like a switchable -15dB pad and a bass roll-off filter. These enhancements make it possible to capture everything from whisper-quiet nuances to thunderous roars without sacrificing clarity or warmth.
Crafted for both studio and live environments, the R-122 MkII's active electronics provide a high output level akin to condenser microphones, allowing seamless integration with any mic preamp. This means you can record the softest acoustic instruments or the loudest electric guitars with ease. Its active ribbon technology not only ensures a consistent frequency response but also protects the delicate ribbon element from damage caused by phantom power or electrical mishaps.
What sets the R-122 MkII apart is its ability to maintain a natural and uncolored sound, thanks to its offset ribbon transducer and high SPL handling capabilities. Whether you're miking a blazing guitar amp or capturing the subtlety of a string quartet, this mic delivers true-to-life recordings with exceptional detail.
The R-122 MkII is a must-have for any serious engineer or musician seeking a microphone that combines the lush, smooth sound of a ribbon with the practical advantages of modern technology.
Key Features:
- Phantom powered with active electronics
- Switchable -15dB pad and bass roll-off filter
- High SPL handling up to 135dB
- Consistent frequency response with negligible off-axis coloration
- Low-impedance output for long cable runs without signal loss
- Requires +48V phantom power
- Hand-wired electronics with a specialized toroidal transformer
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Ribbon |
| Ribbon Type | 2.5-micron Aluminum |
| Mono/Stereo | Mono |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 30Hz-15kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB |
| Pads | 15dB |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Connector | XLR |
| Power Source | 48V phantom power |
| Dimensions | 8.1" x 1" |
| Weight | 0.68 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Wooden Box |
FAQs
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What is the polar pattern of the Royer R-122 MkII Active Ribbon Microphone?
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The Royer R-122 MkII features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back, making it ideal for recording environments where ambient sound is desired.
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Does the Royer R-122 MkII require phantom power?
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Yes, the Royer R-122 MkII is an active ribbon microphone and requires 48V phantom power to operate, which enhances its output and impedance matching.
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What is the frequency response of the Royer R-122 MkII?
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The Royer R-122 MkII has a frequency response of 30Hz to 15kHz, providing a balanced and natural sound suitable for various recording applications.
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How does the -15 dB pad on the Royer R-122 MkII affect recording?
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The -15 dB pad on the Royer R-122 MkII increases headroom by reducing the microphone's sensitivity, allowing it to handle louder sources without distortion.
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Is the Royer R-122 MkII suitable for high SPL environments?
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Yes, the Royer R-122 MkII can handle high sound pressure levels (up to 135dB) without distortion, making it suitable for recording loud instruments like drums and electric guitars.
Videos
Sweetwater
Royer R-122 MKII Ribbon Microphone Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Provides a classic ribbon sound with buttery smoothness on guitar and ukulele
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Captures warmth and edge on brass instruments effectively
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Active ribbon design delivers levels comparable to a condenser
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Offers excellent transient response for drums
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No EQ or compression needed for violin recording in a quality room
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Robust and durable build, dispelling concerns about ribbon mic fragility
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Switchable 15 dB pad and high-pass filter enhance versatility
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Delivers open, analytical sound with added warmth and tonality
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Suitable for both solo and ensemble recordings
CONS
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Not ideal for live spaces with challenging acoustics
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Higher price point compared to passive ribbon mics for high SPL sources
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Royer R-122 MkII Active Ribbon Microphone.
User experience
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Some owners of Tbone ribbon mics have experienced inconsistent sound quality between units, suggesting variable build quality across different mics.
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Owners highlight the Beyerdynamic M160 as a preferred choice over the Royer R-121 for overheads, valuing its hypercardioid pattern and rear rejection in small spaces.
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The Samson AL95 ribbon mic is highlighted for not rolling off the highs as expected, providing a natural sound for acoustic guitar and other applications.
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Users of Golden Age R1 MKII need a high-gain preamp due to its passive design, or opt for active variants for more presence and gain.
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Use cases and applications
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AEA KU5A is recognized for its broadcast quality, making it a standout choice for users seeking modern ribbon mic applications.
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The SE Voodoo VR1/VR2 ribbons are praised for their effectiveness on piano, strings, and drums, with users noting more low-end capture compared to condensers.
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Multiple users report that blending a ribbon mic with an SM57 on guitar amps provides a balanced sound with added warmth and midrange clarity.
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The Royer R-10 is praised for its performance on acoustic guitar, mandolin, violin, and banjo, offering a step-up from cheaper clones without breaking the bank.
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SE VR2 is highlighted for its versatility, offering excellent results on violin close-miking, mono overheads, and guitar cabs.
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The Golden Age Project R1 MKII is praised for its clarity and smoothness, especially effective as a mono drum overhead and for acoustic guitar.
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Mods and upgrades
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Bumblebee DIY ribbon mic is recommended for those wanting a Royer-like sound at a lower cost, emphasizing ease of assembly with minimal soldering required.
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Adding a Triton Germanium Fethead to a Tbone RM700 enhances its output, making it a versatile and cost-effective option for various recording applications.
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Comparisons
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Audio Technica 4080 is described as dull by some users, in contrast to the SE Voodoo VR1/VR2, which extends to about 18kHz and offers a brighter top end.
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Stager SR2N mics are noted for their sound quality similar to Coles 4038, but at half the cost, offering a comparable tonal and transient response.
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The MXL R144 is often compared to the Royer R-121, with some users preferring its less muddy low mid for guitar recordings.
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Users note that the Tbone RB100, a budget ribbon mic, offers sound quality similar to the Royer 121 for brass instruments, capturing a controlled low end without muddiness.
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Features and functionality
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The Avantone CR-14 ribbon mic features a darker side in its figure-8 pattern, which can be useful for sculpting sound during recordings.
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The Tbone RB500 is frequently used for drum room miking in a Blumlein pair configuration, delivering excellent results for capturing room ambiance.
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The Alder Audio H44 features dual sonic profiles due to its unique herringbone ribbon, praised for versatility on guitar amps and acoustics.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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