Description

The Royer Labs R12 Active Ribbon Mic is New Delivered to all areas of the UK using our roadie delivery service.

The Royer Labs R12 Active Ribbon Microphone brings the celebrated Royer ribbon sound to a robust and versatile design suitable for both studio recording and live performance. Built around the same 2.5 micron ribbon element found in the iconic R121, the R12 delivers a smooth, natural tonal balance with exceptional detail and realism. Its figure of eight polar pattern captures sound with remarkable accuracy, making it ideal for electric and acoustic guitars, vocals, brass, piano, organs, drums and percussion.

Unlike traditional passive ribbon microphones, the R12 features an internal active circuit, providing a higher output level and consistent performance with standard microphone preamps. This makes setup simple and reliable in a wide range of professional environments. With the ability to handle sound pressure levels exceeding 160 dB, the R12 performs confidently on loud sources such as guitar cabinets and close-miked drums without sacrificing clarity.

Thoughtful design elements such as a selectable high pass filter, a built-in pad and comprehensive wind protection ensure excellent control and long term durability. Manufactured in the USA to Royer Labs’ exacting standards, the R12 offers a refined ribbon microphone experience that combines classic character with modern reliability

Key Features

• Authentic Royer ribbon element:
  Utilises the same 2.5 micron ribbon as the R121 for natural, detailed sound with smooth highs and a rich, musical midrange.
• Active electronics design:
  Internal active circuitry provides higher output, consistent impedance loading and reliable performance with standard microphone preamps and phantom power.
• Built-in sound control options:
  Selectable pad and high-pass filter allow precise management of loud sources and proximity effect in both studio and live applications.

Classic Ribbon Sound with Modern Reliability:

The Royer Labs R12 delivers the warm, natural sound that ribbon microphones are known for, while incorporating modern design features to enhance reliability and ease of use. Its active circuitry ensures stable performance regardless of preamp choice, eliminating many of the limitations associated with passive ribbons. The figure of eight polar pattern provides excellent side rejection and captures room ambience in a musical and controlled way. Whether used on vocals, guitars or orchestral instruments, the R12 reproduces subtle tonal details with exceptional accuracy. Designed to withstand demanding sessions, it offers the classic ribbon character engineers expect, combined with dependable performance for everyday professional use.

Designed for Loud Sources and Close Miking:

With an impressive maximum SPL handling capability, the R12 excels in high-volume environments where other microphones may struggle. Electric guitar cabinets, brass instruments and close-mic’d drums are captured with clarity and authority, without harshness or distortion. The integrated pad allows further headroom when needed, while the high-pass filter helps manage low frequency build up caused by proximity effect. A shock-mounted transducer reduces handling noise, making the microphone suitable for both fixed studio setups and live stages. This versatility ensures consistent results across a wide range of recording situations.

Durable Construction and Professional Accessories:

Every aspect of the R12 is engineered for long-term reliability and protection of the delicate ribbon element. A three-layer windscreen system guards against plosives, air blasts and debris, helping to maintain performance over time. The robust housing and precision components reflect Royer Labs’ commitment to quality manufacturing in the USA. Supplied with a microphone mount, protective mic sock and rigid case, the R12 is ready for transport and regular use. For stereo recording applications, matched pair versions are also available, ensuring precise imaging and consistency.

Specifications

• Operating principle: Active electrodynamic ribbon
• Polar pattern: Figure of eight
• Ribbon element: 2.5 micron aluminium
• Magnets: Neodymium Grade 52
• Frequency response: 30 Hz to 15,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: -36 dB 1 V Pa
• Switchable pad: -15 dB
• High pass filter: 100 Hz 6 dB per octave
• Equivalent noise: Less than 16 dB
• Output impedance: 200 ohms balanced
• Connector: 3 pin XLR pin 2 hot
• Recommended load: Minimum 1,000 ohms
• Maximum SPL: Greater than 160 dB at 1 kHz
• Power requirements: 48 V phantom power
• Dimensions: 209.5 mm by 35 mm
• Weight: 462 g