The AEA R88 MK2 / RPQ2 Stereo Package is the combination of two of the best possible components for delivering the true audiophile quality possible through the use of a balanced, purpose-built ribbon microphone system. This special bundle marries the heralded AEA R88 mk2 Stereo Ribbon Microphone together with AEA's new and improved RPQ2 2-channel Ribbon Microphone Preamp, EQ, & DI, and two pairs of Mogami Gold Studio Quad Cables for getting in and out of the RPQ2. If there ever was a 'desert island microphone,' the R88 mk2 is most definitely it! And the RPQ2 shows off the R88 mk2's 'Big Ribbon' sound like no other preamp can.
The AEA R88 mk2 & RPQ2 Stereo Ribbon Microphone & Preamplifier Package is a special bundle that includes an ARA R88 MK2 Stereo Ribbon Mic, and an RPQ Stereo Preamp. The bundle also comes with a free pair of Mogami Gold Studio 15 Foot XLR cables for free.
AEA R88 mk2 Stereo Ribbon Microphone
The AEA R88 mk2 Stereo Ribbon Microphone is the living proof that there is no easier way to track natural stereo than by using a stereo mic. From drum overheads to live concert recordings, the R88 is convenient to use and aesthetically pleasing. The natural soundstage and character of the R88's Blumlein Stereo makes it a great main mic. An excellent orchestral and choral recording microphone, it shines on applications such as horn sections and drum overheads. The R88 accurately records complex tones such as woodwinds, strings and cymbals. The heart of the R88 are two matched native pressure-gradient ribbon transducers tuned to 16.5 Hz. These folded ribbons are 1.8 micron (7/100,000 inch) thin and match the air's acoustical impedance within 1 dB. As a result, AEA yet again delivers a Pure Ribbon minimum path design. Only black technical-fabric and stainless steel separate the ribbons from the music. Like other AEA Big Ribbons, the R88 mk2 delivers extended highs and fast transient response without the high-frequency, high-Q resonances characteristic of tightly stretched condenser capsule. The R88 mk2's ribbon transducers are natively figure-8 with exceptional imaging, transient response, and sense of space. And, as a side benefit (literally and figuratively), the figure-8 pattern is highly useful for controlling bleed and room tone. Appreciated for "What You Hear Is What you Get," Blumlein stereo is the most three dimensional coincident recording system developed. The ribbons are 90 degrees to each other for convenient Blumlein and Mid/Side (M/S) stereo. M/S is an excellent technique for solo instruments and situations needing post-production stereo width control. And the best part is that the R88 mk2 excels at BOTH of these stereo recording techniques. Again... if there ever was a desert island microphone, the AEA R88 mk2 is most definitely IT!
AEA RPQ2 2-channel, full-rack preamp with EQ & DI
Specifically designed for ribbon microphones, the RPQ2 excels at drawing out the warmth and lush sound ribbons are uniquely known for. With 81dB of sweet JFET gain, the RPQ2 delivers the quietness, and headroom needed for today's high-resolution recordings. With phantom power disengaged, the NoLoad™ input impedance at 63K Ohms means the RPQ2 won't load down a mic and change its sound. The RPQ2's CurveShaper™ EQ gives you the tools to control your ribbons right at the start of the signal path. Switchable and tunable low and high-frequency controls allow you to tame proximity and provide HF extension. The RPQ2 also includes front panel Direct Inputs, Mic/Line switches for balanced line inputs and outputs, as well as inserts for patching compressors or other effects between the preamp and CurveShaper™ EQ section. This feature is particularly useful for bypassing the preamp section when you want to use the unit in Line Input mode for post-EQ processing. Engineers have discovered that the RPQ2 also complements their moving coil and condenser microphones, quite nicely. Like AEA's Big Ribbons, they designed the RPQ2 to have a natural and musical tonality.
Features
- AEA R88 mk2:
- Big Ribbon™ Blumlein (XY) and MS stereo ribbon mic
- Pure Ribbon™ design with open and natural sound
- Used in many Grammy Award winning projects
- Great foundation for main or sectional pickup
- AEA RPQ2:
- Two channels with 81dB of sweet and quiet JFET gain
- NoLoad™ 63k ohm high-impedance circuitry providing better overall transients, frequency response, and higher output sensitivity
- High-resolution, high-impedance front-panel 1/4" DIs
- Mic/Line mode with Post-Mic and Pre-EQ Inserts for alternative and convenient routing options
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