Royer R-121: A Groundbreaking Ribbon Microphone

Originally released in 1998, the award-winning R-121 stands as Royer’s flagship microphone, marking the world’s first radical reengineering of ribbon microphones. Breaking away from the traditional large, heavy, and fragile ‘classic’ ribbon microphone design, the R-121 introduced a completely new direction. This microphone delivers the warmth and natural sound that experienced engineers seek in ribbon mics but in a compact, lightweight, high-output, and durable package, setting a new standard in ribbon microphone technology.

Recognition and Impact

The R-121 redefined ribbon microphones to such an extent that Recording Magazine noted: ‘…the Royer R-121 is destined to become one of the classic microphones of the 21st century.’ Over its 10+ years in the market, thousands of R-121s have been sold globally, establishing itself as a standard for recording electric guitar and brass.

Patented Offset Ribbon Technology

The R-121’s patented offset ribbon transducer is an innovative design element, positioning the ribbon element closer to the front side of the microphone. This unique configuration allows the ribbon more room to move within the prime magnetic field, ensuring a full frequency response even during high SPL recordings. The patented offset ribbon technology is a key contributor to the magic of all Royer R-series microphones.

Key Features

• Figure-8 pattern, comparable output level to a dynamic mic, and a warm, realistic tone with a flat frequency response.
• Proprietary offset ribbon transducer (Patent # 6,434,252) positions the ribbon element closer to the front, allowing for full frequency response during high SPL recordings.
• Versatile and user-friendly, suitable for tracking electric guitar, brass, drums, and more.
• Solid construction with a lifetime warranty, demonstrating Royer’s commitment to durability and longevity.
• High SPL Capabilities: No internal active electronics to overload or produce distortion up to maximum SPL rating.
• Extremely low residual noise.
• Ribbon element is not affected by heat or humidity.
• Absence of high frequency phase distortion.
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of element.
• Consistent frequency response regardless of distance.

Applications

• Electric Guitar Amps
• Brass Instruments
• Horn Sections
• Drum Rooms
• Kick Drum
• Woodwinds
• Percussion Instruments
• Acoustic Piano
• Acoustic Guitar
• String Instruments & Sections
• Choirs & Orchestras
• Commercial Broadcast

• Acoustic Operating Principle: Electrodynamic pressure gradient
• Polar Pattern: Figure-8
• Generating Element: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon
• Magnets: Rare Earth Neodymium
• Frequency Response: 30 -15,000 Hz +/- 3dB
• Sensitivity: -47 dBv Re. 1v/pa
• Output Impedance: 300 Ohms @ 1K (nominal)
• Rated Load Impedance: >1500 Ohms @ 300 Ohms
• Maximum SPL: >135dB @ 20 Hz
• Output Connector: Male XLR 3 pin (Pin 2 Hot)
• Dimensions: 155.7mm L, 25mm W (6.13″ L, 1″ W)
• Weight: 244g (8.6 oz)
• Finish: Dull Satin Nickel/Matte Black Chrome optional