sE Electronics RNR1 - Dynamic Ribbon Microphone

sE Electronics RNR1 – Dynamic Ribbon Microphone

The sE Electronics RNR1 is the first active ribbon microphone designed in collaboration with Rupert Neve. It combines two custom transformers and discrete circuitry to compensate for the natural high-frequency rolloff of ribbons, delivering an ultra-wide response (20 Hz–25 kHz) and a remarkably detailed, warm, and natural ribbon sound. Its 2.5 µm aluminum ribbon element, carefully developed over a year of testing, provides a perfect balance of flexibility and rigidity, while the active electronics and integrated shockmount minimize handling noise and ensure a clean, powerful signal.

Main features

• Element: 2.5 µm aluminum tape, hand-crafted.
• Polar pattern: Figure 8, front and rear capture with side rejection.
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 25 kHz.
• Sensitivity: 25 mV/Pa (–32 dB).
• Own noise: 17 dB(A).
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 77 dB.
• Maximum SPL: 137 dB (0.5% THD @ 1 kHz).
• Output impedance: 200 Ω balanced.
• Nominal load: 1,000 Ω.
• Electronics: Active, requires 48V phantom power.
• Low-cut filter: 100 Hz integrable to control bass and proximity.
• Connector: Gold plated XLR-3M.
• Dimensions: Ø 47 mm × L 268 mm.
• Weight: 860 g.
• Included accessories: Custom shockmount, flight case/wooden box, metal case, thread adapter, manual.

Product benefits

• Extended high frequency response, unique to ribbon microphones.
• Warm, smooth, and “not bright” sound, ideal for vocals, strings, and necks with an intimate character.
• Neve transformers provide extra headroom and low background noise.
• Integrated shockmount eliminates vibration and handling noise.
• Robust construction for studio and touring, with high-quality finishes.

Use cases

• Soft Vocal Recording: Immersive and natural capture without sibilance.
• Stereo pairs in strings and orchestras: wide and detailed sound image.
• Overheads and drum ambience: realism in the cymbals and snare.
• Guitar amp recording: body and warmth without excessive treble.
• Field recording and cinema: fidelity in dialogue and uncolored environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does it work with any preamp? Yes; it requires 48 V phantom power and a preamp with a load ≥ 1 kΩ.
• Is the tape brittle? The 2.5 µm alloy is optimized for strength and durability.
• Does it include a shockmount? Yes; a custom shockmount comes standard to reduce vibrations.
• What's the difference with other ribbons? It retains highs up to 25 kHz and higher SPL before clipping.

Description for projects

Active ribbon microphone with 2.5 µm aluminium ribbon, figure 8, 20 Hz–25 kHz, sensitivity 25 mV/Pa, noise 17 dB(A), SPL 137 dB, active electronics, 200 Ω, 48 V phantom, Ø 47×268 mm, 860 g.