Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$3,399.00
Guitar Center
$3,399.00
Reverb
$3,299.00 New
$2,400.00 Used
Thomann
4.5 (2)
$3,333.00 $3,299.00 $34.00 · All time low
Vintage King
$3,399.00

Average Price: $3,199

High-end/Boutique

$499

$1500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone, a trailblazer in the world of studio recording. The R-122V is a unique blend of classic ribbon warmth and vacuum tube brilliance, providing a depth and richness that's simply unparalleled. Whether you're capturing the soulful tones of a saxophone or the nuanced vocals of a lead singer, this microphone delivers an "audio velvet" experience that is both luxurious and precise.

As the first commercially available vacuum tube ribbon mic, the R-122V stands out with its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. Thanks to its military-grade 5840W vacuum tube, this mic offers 15dB more gain than its predecessors, ensuring that your recordings are detailed and vibrant. The active electronics allow for long cable runs and compatibility with a variety of preamps, so you're never limited by your setup.

With its sleek design and glowing venting slots, the R-122V is as much a visual statement as it is a technical marvel. This microphone is a testament to Royer's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible with ribbon technology, making it a must-have for any serious studio.

Key Features:

  • First commercially available vacuum tube ribbon microphone
  • Military-grade 5840W vacuum tube for exceptional gain and signal clarity
  • High SPL handling capacity, suitable for a wide range of instruments
  • Frequency response: 30 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Dedicated power supply for consistent performance
  • Fully balanced output with Jensen output transformer for noise elimination
  • Includes microphone shock mount, protective cover, and padded carrying case

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
Output Impedance 200 ohms
Self Noise 18dB
Sensitivity -36 dB, (1v/pa +/- 1 dB))
Tube JAN 5840
Connector XLR
Dimensions 8.1" x 1"
Weight 0.66 lbs.

FAQs

What makes the Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone unique compared to other ribbon mics?

The Royer R-122V features vacuum-tube electronics that enhance its output capability and provide optimal impedance, resulting in a warm, natural sound with extremely low self-noise.

Is the Royer R-122V suitable for recording electric guitars?

Yes, the Royer R-122V is ideal for recording electric guitars due to its high SPL capabilities, which handle loud sound sources without distortion.

What is the polar pattern of the Royer R-122V, and how does it affect recording?

The Royer R-122V has a figure-8 polar pattern, providing equal sensitivity from the front and back, making it excellent for capturing room ambiance and stereo recording setups.

Does the Royer R-122V require a special power supply?

Yes, the Royer R-122V operates from a dedicated power supply included with the microphone, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

How does the Royer R-122V perform in different environmental conditions?

The Royer R-122V's ribbon element is unaffected by impedance/load, heat, or humidity, ensuring consistent performance in various recording environments.

What is included with the Royer R-122V microphone?

The Royer R-122V comes with a carrying case, power supply, cable, and shockmount, providing everything needed for immediate setup and use.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone.

Features and functionality

  • The Royer R-122V is used in conjunction with a Shure Beta 57a to capture balanced audio from guitar cabinets, particularly in live settings.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the Royer/Shure mic combination for its versatility, traditionally used in recording but increasingly popular in live settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Trey Anastasio's setup includes the R-122V for a dry cab, while wet cabs use different Royer models, highlighting its role in complex live sound configurations.

    Source
  • The R-122V's role in a wet/dry rig setup is emphasized, showcasing its adaptability in separating effects and clean tones live.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the effectiveness of the Royer AxeMount for maintaining consistent mic placement, crucial for reliable live performance sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The R-122V is favored over the R-121 for its vacuum tube design, offering a different tonal character that some users prefer for live applications.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Royer R-122V Review

recordinghacks.com

The Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone dazzles with its remarkable ability to make instruments sound larger, fuller, and more detailed. Its tube circuitry enhances all the good qualities of the R-121, offering clear, natural sound across a wide range of instruments. However, the hefty price tag of $2795 each may be a barrier for smaller studios. Despite this, even basic preamps reveal its potential, making it a high-quality investment for those who can afford it. Royer has crafted a true winner, especially for professional setups seeking that extra sonic depth.

positive

Field Test: Royer R-122V Tube Ribbon Mic

mixonline.com

The Royer R-122V Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone is a stellar performer that breaks the stereotype of ribbons being too dull. Its high-output, low-noise circuitry allows it to shine across various applications, from capturing the nuances of a piano to the raw power of a guitar amp. The mic's ability to handle transients smoothly and provide a silky, extended top end is impressive. Though it comes with a hefty price tag, its lifetime warranty and unmatched quality make it a worthwhile investment for serious audiophiles. What's not to like about this one?

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Royer Ribbon Microphones

Royer R-121

$1,499.00 - $1,599.00

# 2

Rank

John Frusciante Mac DeMarco Billie Joe Armstrong
50 artists using
Royer R-10

$622.00 - $1,298.00

# 11

Rank

Masaru Teramae
1 artist using
Royer SF-24V

$5,599.00 - $6,999.00

# 42

Rank

Neeraj Khajanchi
1 artist using
AEA R84

$1,199.00 - $1,399.00

# 5

Rank

Jack White Yannis Philippakis Moby
9 artists using
AEA R88

$2,317.94 - $2,589.00

# 9

Rank

Jacob Collier John Osborne Butch Walker
6 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides