USER GUIDE
RSM-4 Studio Instrument & Vocal Ribbon Microphone
UNPACKING, INSPECTION, STORAGE AND TRANSPORT
Your RSM-4 microphone was carefully packed at the factory, and the shipping carton and internally padded wooden storage case were
designed to protect the unit during shipping. Please always store your mic in the wooden case and also retain the shipping container for
subsequent transport and in the highly unlikely event that you ever need to return your microphone for servicing. Please note: since the
ribbon assembly of the RSM-4, as with all ribbon microphones, is extremely fragile, you must verify immediately upon receipt of your
microphone that it has not been damaged during shipment and is operating correctly. The warranty on this microphone does not extend
beyond an initial inspection, since these microphones can be so easy damaged during handling and use. If the unit arrived damaged
please return it immediately to where you bought it. Units that are damaged in use can be returned to Nady Systems and the ribbon
assembly replaced for a fixed charge (see Service section below).
STANDARD ITEMS SUPPLIED
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
• RSM-4 ribbon microphone
• Foam padded wooden storage box
• Mic clip
• Velvet drawstring storage bag
• User Guide
• Warranty card
FEATURES
Congratulations on purchasing the Nady RSM-4 Ribbon Studio Microphone. This superior neoclassic
microphone is designed for use in contemporary, state-of-the-art studios, yet offers the unique natural
sound previously only available on such classic large ribbon mics as the legendary RCA 44, which is
still used to make great recordings today after almost 70 years. Especially suited for recording guitar
amplifier cabinets, the versatile RSM-4 is also great on vocals, acoustic instruments, strings, horns,
orchestras and choral groups, ambient instrument audio, and many live sound applications. Powerful
and versatile, and with the unmatched natural sound of classic ribbon mics, the RSM-4 meets the
stringent requirements of even the most demanding digital recording and live broadcasting
applications.
This manual covers the operation of the RSM-4 microphone and the available optional accessories.
To take full advantage of the superb features of your microphone, and to enjoy long and trouble-free
use, please read this user’s guide carefully. As ribbon microphones are, by their design, very
sensitive to damage from mishandling and use, it is very important to read and observe the
precautions below about proper use.
• MPF-6 Pop Filter (highly recommended, as ribbon
microphones are very susceptible to damage from strong
air blasts, as with percussive sounds during recording)
• The unparalleled, uncompromised sound of a classic ribbon
(velocity) mic
• Versatile design for numerous applications, including close
miking of guitar amps and cabinets, and many other vocal and
instrument recording and live sound uses
• Low-tension 45mm long, 6 micron thick aluminum ribbon design
with typical “large, mellow” ribbon audio reproduction with
smooth, natural extended low and high ends
• Fast accurate transient response, ultra-high 165 dB SPL
capability, unmatched transient response and overall stunning
realism
• Figure-8 audio directional (pickup) pattern for both front and rear
side, with extended sweet spots (as compared to large
diaphragm condenser mics), and slightly different frequency
responses from front and rear side. Also, increased off-axis high
frequency response on sides, with decreased high response
above and below on-axis (though lower audio levels).
• Individual recording volume control of separate sources, through
use of stereo mic setups wherein isolation is achieved by placing
the source so that it is in the principal axis of one mic and the
off-axis null of the other
• Manufactured with the finest materials with a machined housing
with advanced internal shock mount construction for the highest
structural integrity and rugged reliability
