Incredible Ribbon Sound at an Amazing Price
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!
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Phantom power approved
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!
ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone Features:
- 2-micron aluminum ribbon to accurately capture any source
- Asymmetrical figure-8 pickup pattern naturally reproduces the space and reverb of the room
- Phantom power active preamp module delivers high gain without the use of an external preamp
- Precision-tooled body and dent-resistant stainless steel wire-mesh windscreen protects the ribbon and offers a 150db max SPL
- Included shockmount, bag, and hard case keep your microphone secure