Among studio professionals, ribbon microphones are praised as the most natural sounding mics available. That said, their amazingly open response and tendency to capture clear highs and detailed low end often mean a higher price point. For those seeking a more affordable gateway into the world of ribbon mics, the ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone represents a can't-miss opportunity. An integrated phantom-powered preamp module provides significantly higher gain than a traditional ribbon mic, while protecting the ribbon from potentially harmful voltage. The low-tension 2-micron aluminum ribbon forms the core of this mic, here at Sweetwater, we are impressed by the astonishingly true-to-life sound that comes courtesy of the AR5’s asymmetrical figure-8 pattern and extended-range frequency response. Ribbon mics are well known for being inherently fragile, but the AR5’s stainless steel wire-mesh windscreen, high SPL range, and included shockmount and hard case mean that this mic’s build quality is as robust as its tone!
Since it can potentially cause irreversible damage to the aluminum ribbon, traditional ribbon mics should be kept as far away from phantom power as possible. However, ART’s integrated preamp module elevates the AR5 to the status of an active ribbon mic, requiring the use of phantom power. This gives the AR5 much higher gain than a standard ribbon mic, as they often need a specialized standalone high-gain preamp to function when recording lower-decibel sources. This mic’s integrated preamp works to bring the gain and protect the ribbon at the same time!
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Microphone Type | Ribbon |
Mono/Stereo | Mono |
Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
Frequency Response | 20Hz-18kHz |
Max SPL | 150dB SPL (1kHz at 1% THD) |
Output Impedance | <100 ohms |
Signal to Noise Ratio | 69dB (1kHz @ 1kPa) |
Self Noise | 25dB |
Connector | XLR |
Power Source | 48V phantom power |
Dimensions | 6.9" x 1.1" |
Included Accessories | Shockmount |
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