Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$1,599.00
Guitar Center
3.0 (2)
$1,599.00
Amazon
4.6 (73)
$1,599.00 New
$1,219.00 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$937.55 New
$1,253.86 Used
B&H
$1,599.00
Thomann
5.0 (5)
$1,599.00
Gear4Music
£1,037.00
Vintage King
$1,599.00

Average Price: $1,487

Standard/Professional

$499

$1500+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

What makes the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 different from other ribbon microphones?

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.

Is the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 suitable for recording vocals?

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.

What is the polar pattern of the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1, and how does it affect recording?

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.

Can the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 handle high sound pressure levels?

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.

Does the sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 require phantom power?

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.

Age of Audio

Age of Audio

Backstage sE Electronics RNR1 - Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone

Video thumbnail for Backstage  sE Electronics RNR1 - Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone by Age of Audio

Backstage sE Electronics RNR1 - Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone

Age of Audio

Age of Audio

Video thumbnail for Brad Wood and the sE / Rupert Neve RNR1 by sE Electronics

Brad Wood and the sE / Rupert Neve RNR1

sE Electronics

sE Electronics

Video thumbnail for sE Electronics RNR1 Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone | Quick & Dirty Demo by Sinasoid

sE Electronics RNR1 Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone | Quick & Dirty Demo

Sinasoid

Sinasoid

Video thumbnail for SE Electronic RNR1 Microphone - NAMM 2009 by Sound On Sound magazine

SE Electronic RNR1 Microphone - NAMM 2009

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for The RNR1: Spotify Studios and sE Electronics by sE Electronics

The RNR1: Spotify Studios and sE Electronics

sE Electronics

sE Electronics

Video thumbnail for Out Of The Box: sE Electronics RNR1 Rupert Neve Ribbon Mic by Sinasoid

Out Of The Box: sE Electronics RNR1 Rupert Neve Ribbon Mic

Sinasoid

Sinasoid

Video thumbnail for Joe Baldridge and the RNR1 by sE Electronics

Joe Baldridge and the RNR1

sE Electronics

sE Electronics

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, lush sound enhances acoustic instruments and vocals

  • Smoothens high-mid frequencies for clearer sound

  • Excellent on electric guitar cabinets alongside traditional mics

  • Active ribbon design requires phantom power for versatile use

  • Ideal for a variety of genres including Americana, jazz, and reggae

  • Provides natural sound with great detail for classical and jazz recordings

  • Comes with a robust metal transport case and wooden storage box

  • Includes an anti-vibration mount for optimal stability

CONS

  • Heavy, weighing around 850 grams, which may limit setup flexibility

  • 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

  • Owners frequently use the RNR1 as shoulder overhead mics for drums, highlighting their impressive top-end response without excessive high-frequency roll-off.

    Source
  • Considered unsuitable for female vocals but praised for guitar cabs, highlighting its specific tonal response.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Comparisons

  • 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.

    Source
  • Described as a "fuller range" ribbon but noted for a frequency drop-off after 10k, questioning its distinction from typical ribbons.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • The sE VR2 is highlighted for being more cost-effective than the RNR1 while still providing robust build quality.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users report that the rubber material used by sE Electronics can become sticky over time, affecting the microphone's handling.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite branding, Rupert Neve's involvement is limited to transformer design, potentially affecting user expectations.

    Source

User experience

  • It's noted that the preamp choice, such as using a Focusrite ISA, significantly impacts the warmth and performance of ribbon mics like the NTR.

    Source

Critic Reviews

SE Electronics RNR1

soundonsound.com

The sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 is a stellar blend of classic ribbon warmth with a surprising high-frequency extension, thanks to Rupert Neve's innovative electronic design. It excels across various applications, from vocals to instruments, offering a natural, smooth sound that avoids the harshness of many modern microphones. While its price and need for a quality preamp may limit it to serious professionals, its unique tonal qualities and extended high-end response make it a worthy investment for those seeking top-tier ribbon performance. Ultimately, the RNR1 stands out as a potential modern classic in the world of ribbon mics.

positive

SE Electronics: RNR1 active ribbon mic | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The SE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 active ribbon mic is a triumph in design, blending the natural warmth of traditional ribbons with enhanced clarity and extended frequency response. With a hot output and a sleek, futuristic look, it's a hit among engineers for its natural tone and versatility across instruments. However, its powerful output necessitates an inline pad, a minor inconvenience in an otherwise stellar package. If you're seeking a ribbon mic that bridges vintage warmth with modern precision, the RNR1 is a standout choice.

positive

SE Electronics RNR1 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 is a standout in the ribbon mic arena, praised for its extended frequency range and smooth sound. Its design, combining sE's expertise with Rupert Neve's engineering, provides a flat response from 20Hz to 25kHz, making it versatile across various instruments. The mic's build quality is high, requiring a sturdy stand due to its weight. While it's expensive, at over £2,000, it offers value for those seeking high-quality recordings in good acoustic spaces. The RNR1 is a worthy investment for serious musicians, though it complements rather than replaces other mics.

positive

Review: sE Electronics RNR1 — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1 is a stunningly designed active ribbon microphone with an impressive 20Hz to 25kHz frequency response. Its collaboration between Rupert Neve and sE Electronics aims to elevate traditional ribbon mic designs, delivering deep and faithful tones with excellent clarity. While its sound is exceptional on various sources, including guitar amps and drums, it might not suit all vocals or acoustic settings without EQ adjustments. The major downside is its hefty $4999 price tag, which may be beyond the reach of many smaller studios. Despite this, for those who can afford it, the RNR1 offers a rich, detailed sound and an attractive addition to any studio arsenal.

positive

Review: sE Electronics RNR1 Rupert Neve Ribbon Microphone : Ask.Audio

ask.audio

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Pete Thorn uses sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1

Pete Thorn

Guitarist

SatchVai Band: Joe Satriani & Steve Vai

...
Verified via Facebook

"Woha… this showed up. SE/Rupert Neve active ribbon mic... Serious... Time to track some guitar!!!"

See how Alan Gogoll uses sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1

Alan Gogoll

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video producer Michael Watts sows and says they used this mic in the Hansa session. 3:13 mark

See how Simon Franglen uses sE Electronics Rupert Neve RNR1

Simon Franglen

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

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.

Neumann SM2
Neumann SM2 Condenser Microphones
1
RCA 44A
RCA 44A Ribbon Microphones
1
Neumann U67
Neumann U67 Condenser Microphones
1

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