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ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone

Active Ribbon Microphone with Figure-8 Pattern, Phantom Power Preamp Module, Shockmount, and Hard Case
$159.99

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ART AR5 Active Ribbon Microphone
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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!

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

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Tech Specs

  • 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
  • Manufacturer Part Number: AR5

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

Perfect for drum overheads!

Picked up a pair of these to replace the small electret condenser mics I'd been using as overhead mics on my drum kit. What a difference! The warmth of the ribbon really brings out the tone of the cymbals, and without the nasty harshness of the condenser mics. Looked at other inexpensive ribbons, but the fact that this one has a preamp built-in (yet costs less than a Cloudlifter!) made the decision easy.
Music background: Home 20-track project studio
Rated 5/5

Sound great, plenty of volume

Impulse purchased this mic. Have had great experience with ART products. ART makes solid gear. This mic sounds great on acoustic guitar. Rich and full. It uses phantom power so it has plenty of volume. For the price, this mic is fantastic. I look forward to using on guitar cabs.
Music background: Home studio guy
Rated 3/5

Noise is the fatal flaw

Took a chance on this mic since the reviews seemed positive and it looked a bit like another famous ribbon mic that starts with an R. The mic does not sound bad by any stretch, but as the title indicates, the self-noise is unworkably loud for what I'm doing. I'm a believer in cheap gear being serviceable, but this is one where I'd say spend a little extra money and you'll get a better result.
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