Royer Labs R-122 MKII Live is a phantom-powered active ribbon microphone optimized for stage use — the single-unit version of the R-122 MKII Live Matched Pair. It differs from the studio R-122 MKII in one key respect: the aluminum ribbon element is 4 microns thick instead of 2.5 microns, giving it greater mechanical durability for nightly touring use. The thicker ribbon also produces a slightly attenuated high-frequency response — which on stage is an advantage, reducing the need to cut harsh top end on guitars and brass at the FOH console. Active electronics deliver the same -36 dB sensitivity as the studio MKII. The Live variant is visually identified by a red logo badge.
Active electronics, pad, and filter pre-signal
A hand-wired discrete head amplifier using ultra-low-noise FETs and a custom-wound toroidal transformer maintains constant, optimal impedance loading on the ribbon element regardless of the FOH console's preamp input characteristics. The higher sensitivity comes entirely from the transformer (free gain) — the active circuitry functions as an impedance converter and contributes no noise of its own; self-noise remains below 18 dB. The -15 dB pad is positioned before the microphone's electronics, meaning that at high SPLs the signal is attenuated before reaching any active component, eliminating the risk of microphone distortion and console input overload. The switchable high-pass filter operates at 100 Hz with a 6 dB per octave slope, controlling proximity effect on close-miked guitars and suppressing low-frequency rumble. Both switches are recessed into the body and fully removed from the signal path when disengaged. The 200-ohm output impedance supports long stage cable runs without HF loss or RF interference.
Faster transient response and patented offset ribbon
Royer's purpose-designed toroidal transformer delivers faster transient response than passive ribbon designs — producing tighter low end and a sense of more open highs, making the R-122 MKII Live a strong choice for live drum overheads and horn sections. The naturally rolled-off high end of the 4-micron ribbon means less corrective EQ on guitars and brass at the FOH position. The patented offset ribbon design (Patent #6,434,252) positions the ribbon element closer to the front of the housing for higher SPL handling from the logo side; the rear side captures a slightly brighter response at approximately three feet and closer (phase reversed). The figure-eight pattern with strong side rejection enables effective bleed control on stage. Lifetime warranty to the original owner; first ribbon replacement free.
KEY FEATURES
- Active Ribbon electronics: -36 dB sensitivity — condenser microphone output level
- 4-micron aluminum ribbon — increased road durability vs. 2.5-micron studio version
- Naturally rolled-off high end — less corrective EQ needed at FOH on guitars and brass
- Hand-wired discrete head amplifier with ultra-low-noise FETs and toroidal transformer (free gain)
- Self-noise below 18 dB
- Switchable -15 dB pad positioned before electronics — eliminates mic and preamp distortion at high SPL
- Switchable HPF: 100 Hz, 6 dB/oct — proximity effect reduction and rumble suppression
- Both switches recessed and fully removed from signal path when disengaged
- Faster transient response — drum overheads, brass sections on stage
- Patented offset ribbon design (Patent #6,434,252) — high SPL front, brighter character rear
- Figure-eight pattern: strong side rejection, effective bleed control on stage
- 200-ohm output — long stage cable runs without HF loss or RF interference
- Ribbon element protected from phantom power, electrical transients, miswired cables
- Visually differentiated from studio version by red logo badge
- Rare earth Neodymium magnets
- Lifetime warranty to original owner; first ribbon replacement free
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Acoustic operating principle: electrodynamic pressure gradient with active electronics
- Polar pattern: figure-8
- Generating element: 4-micron aluminum ribbon
- Magnets: rare earth Neodymium
- Frequency response: 30–15,000 Hz +/- 3 dB
- Sensitivity: -36 dB (re. 1V/Pa +/-1 dB)
- Switchable pad: -15 dB (pre-electronics)
- Switchable bass cut: 100 Hz, 6 dB per octave
- Self-noise: below 18 dB
- Output impedance: 200 ohms, balanced
- Rated load impedance: 1k ohm minimum
- Maximum SPL: 135 dB @ 30 Hz
- Output connector: XLR 3-pin (Pin 2 Hot)
- Power requirements: 48V phantom only, 4 mA
- Dimensions: 206 mm (L) x 25 mm (W)
- Weight: 309 g (10.9 oz)
- Finish: Dull Satin Nickel; optional Matte Black Chrome
- Includes: R-122 MKII Live microphone, wooden case, mic sock
