emissions from tubes tend to convey more “thermal” noise than
transistors. Tube preamplifier noise is far less of an issue with
the R-122V than with conventional ribbon microphones because
the R-122V’s high output will largely override the noise.
Transformer coupled designs tend to sound punchy and full-
bodied and offer the added benefit of true electronic isolation.
This greatly enhances their ability to interface with other equipment
with minimal noise or hum. There are many excellent preamplifiers
on the market today. Choose one that fits your budget and offers
good performance, but remember that you get what you pay for.
If you have the opportunity to audition one or more preamplifiers
before you buy one, do so. Microphones and preamplifiers work
together like a team and some are better matches than others.
The R-122V vacuum tube ribbon microphone is capable of
substantial output signal, especially if used in conjunction with
very loud signal sources such as guitar amplifiers. It is therefore
recommended that the microphone preamplifier have a switchable
pad to prevent the possibility of overloading the preamplifier’s
input stage electronics. Some preamplifiers are more thoughtfully
designed than others, and a suitable pad will be provided before
the active electronics, not incorporated into a “feedback loop” as
with some cheaper models. Even with the pad engaged, a poorly
designed preamplifier can still produce unwanted distortion due
to overloading.
With variable input impedance preamplifiers, a good rule of
thumb is to set the Z-switch for the highest input impedance.
In conclusion, preamplifier coloration is optional and a matter of
personal taste. Some engineers enjoy the effect of coloration
while others strive for absolute transparency.
Equalization & Ribbon Microphones
One of the great strengths of ribbon microphones is how well
they take EQ. Even with substantial amounts of equalization,
ribbons retain their natural, “real” quality. For example, when a
lead vocal is being performed on an R-122V, you can actually
boost upper-end frequencies to the point where the R-122V
emulates the performance curve of a condenser mic with excellent
12
Summary of Contents for R-122V
Page 31: ...Polar Pattern Frequency Response 30 ...
Page 32: ...Notes 31 ...
