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Average Price: $1,487
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$499
$1500+
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Based on price data from 6 merchants for "sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1, a groundbreaking ribbon microphone that merges the classic warmth of ribbon technology with modern enhancements for high-frequency clarity. This microphone is the result of a collaboration between industry legends Rupert Neve and sE Electronics, marrying traditional engineering with innovative solutions to overcome the high-frequency roll-off typical in ribbon mics. The RNR1 achieves a nearly ruler-flat frequency response, offering an unmatched natural sound that's both detailed and realistic.
Unlike conventional ribbon mics that often struggle with high frequencies, the RNR1 includes custom-designed transformers by Rupert Neve himself. These transformers, along with a discrete amplifier, ensure that the high-frequency content is preserved without sacrificing the authentic midrange detail that ribbons are known for. Its 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon captures sound with incredible sensitivity, making it a versatile choice for any studio setting.
The RNR1's design isn't just about style; its shape provides an acoustically ideal setting for optimal frequency response, while the matte black finish helps it blend seamlessly into any studio or stage setup. Paired with a custom shock mount and flight case, this microphone is ready for any recording challenge, whether you're capturing vocals, instruments, or ambient sounds.
Key Features:
- Designed and built by Rupert Neve and sE Electronics
- Custom Rupert Neve-designed transformers and discrete amplifier
- 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon for enhanced durability and sensitivity
- Figure 8 polar pattern
- Frequency response: 20Hz-25kHz
- Sensitivity: -32dB (referenced 1v/pa +/-1dB)
- Equivalent noise level: 15dB (A weighted)
- Output impedance: 200 Ohms balanced
- Maximum SPL: Over 135dB
- Requires +48V phantom power
- Includes suspension and flight case
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Ribbon |
| Ribbon Type | 2.5-micron Aluminum |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-25kHz |
| Max SPL | 135dB SPL |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Self Noise | 15dB (A weighted) |
| Connector | XLR |
FAQs
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What makes the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 different from other ribbon microphones?
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The sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 combines traditional ribbon mic warmth with extended frequency response up to 25kHz, thanks to Rupert Neve's custom transformer design. This provides a unique clarity and detail, making it suitable for high-fidelity recordings.
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Is the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 suitable for recording vocals?
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Yes, the RNR1 is excellent for recording vocals, offering a natural, smooth sound with a detailed high-frequency response that captures subtle nuances, making it ideal for both studio and broadcast applications.
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What is the polar pattern of the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1, and how does it affect recording?
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The RNR1 features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting noise from the sides. This makes it ideal for capturing room ambiance or multiple sound sources.
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Can the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 handle high sound pressure levels?
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Yes, the RNR1 can handle a maximum SPL of 135dB, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources like drums and guitar amplifiers without distortion.
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Does the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 require phantom power?
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Yes, the RNR1 is an active ribbon microphone and requires phantom power to operate, which is typically provided by most audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
Videos
Age of Audio
Backstage sE Electronics RNR1 - Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone
Reviews
PROS
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Warm, lush sound enhances acoustic instruments and vocals
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Smoothens high-mid frequencies for clearer sound
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Excellent on electric guitar cabinets alongside traditional mics
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Active ribbon design requires phantom power for versatile use
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Ideal for a variety of genres including Americana, jazz, and reggae
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Provides natural sound with great detail for classical and jazz recordings
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Comes with a robust metal transport case and wooden storage box
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Includes an anti-vibration mount for optimal stability
CONS
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Heavy, weighing around 850 grams, which may limit setup flexibility
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Requires careful handling of the anti-vibration mount to ensure proper alignment
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1.
Use cases and applications
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Owners frequently use the RNR1 as shoulder overhead mics for drums, highlighting their impressive top-end response without excessive high-frequency roll-off.
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Considered unsuitable for female vocals but praised for guitar cabs, highlighting its specific tonal response.
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The RNR1 is praised for its performance on guitar amps, often used alongside mics like the U87 for a fuller sound in M/S configurations.
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Comparisons
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Compared to the AEA N8, the RNR1 has a different proximity effect and sensitivity, with the N8 being more pronounced and affordable by around $300.
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Described as a "fuller range" ribbon but noted for a frequency drop-off after 10k, questioning its distinction from typical ribbons.
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The sE VR2 is often considered on par with the RNR1, with some users noting the difference isn't substantial enough to justify the price gap.
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Owners frequently recommend the Beyerdynamic M160 as a superior alternative to other ribbons like the Rode NTR and sE VR2 for under $1000, citing its hyper-cardioid pattern.
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The sE VR2 is highlighted for being more cost-effective than the RNR1 while still providing robust build quality.
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Build quality
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Some users report that the rubber material used by sE Electronics can become sticky over time, affecting the microphone's handling.
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Features and functionality
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Despite branding, Rupert Neve's involvement is limited to transformer design, potentially affecting user expectations.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
Add artist
"Woha… this showed up. SE/Rupert Neve active ribbon mic... Serious... Time to track some guitar!!!"
In this video producer Michael Watts sows and says they used this mic in the Hansa session. 3:13 mark
Featured in this February 1, 2018 video by sE Electronics. It also features on Franglen’s official sE Electronics artist page.
"During the ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ scoring sessions I was sent a pair of the RNR1s for trial; they instantly became my favorite ribbon mics in the entire world. I bought them after the first day. Nothing’s come close since. It’s my favorite piano microphone. A pair of those on a Steinway is about as good as it gets.
They’re wonderful on brass and strings, electric guitar cabinets sound huge through them…they have that lovely extension on the top end that normal ribbons don’t have, but still have all the characteristics that I love.
I’ve even used them for singers when I needed a classic sound or there’s an edge in the voice that the RNR1 can smooth. They sound luscious."
Album Usage
The sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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