WELCOME
Congratulations on your purchase of the AEA R44 ribbon
microphone and welcome to the AEA family!
Whether it be the smooth brass section of a Hollywood soundtrack,
the velvety lushness of a jazz vocal, or the larger-than-life drum
sound of a classic rock record - chances are that you will find a 44
ribbon mic was used on most of your favorite albums. It is one of
the most iconic microphone designs in audio history. In studio use
for 85 years, the 44 ribbon design by RCA is legendary.
“The RCA 44B was the first great music microphone,” Les Paul once
told AEA’s Wes Dooley. “It sounds right on everything, every
instrument and voice.” RCA ceased production of the R44 in 1966.
After their microphone division was closed in 1976, AEA began
servicing ribbon microphones. By 1998, I decided to release our
own version of this classic mic. The 44’s recognizable sound
produces thunderous lows due to the strong proximity effect, a full
and rich mid-range, and a unique top-end taking the edge off of
harsh instruments. This beautiful, natural-sounding microphone
provides an unmatched authenticity of sonic reproduction,
particularly when placed at a distance in a well-tuned room.
Your R44 microphone is 100 percent handcrafted in Pasadena, CA.
AEA is a family-owned company with a small crew of skilled
technicians – most of them also musicians. Proudly independent,
we still manufacture all our ribbon microphones and preamps by
hand from locally sourced parts.
We hope the R44 will help you capture many magical performances
that touch the heart. Please read this manual thoroughly to make
sure that you get the best sound and longevity from your new
microphone. We invite you to become part of the AEA community
by sharing your experiences with the R44 via e-mail, phone or our
social media channels.
Wes Dooley
Founder
of AEA
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