Royer Labs R10

The Royer Labs R-10 is a hand-built in California, passive ribbon studio microphone that combines the power of classic ribbon sound with unprecedented durability. It was specifically designed for professional applications in both critical recording studio environments and demanding live stage setups. Thanks to its flat frequency response, excellent phase linearity, and ability to handle extremely high sound pressure levels, this model is the absolute perfect choice for miking loud electric guitar cabinets, brass instruments, and drum kits.

The core component of this microphone is a 2.5-micron, ultra-thin pure aluminum ribbon element, safeguarded by a custom 3-layer windscreen system and an internally shock-mounted ribbon transducer. This robust design not only minimizes the negative impact of plosives and strong bursts of air but also effectively reduces the unwanted proximity effect on close-miking. Similar to Royer's more expensive models, it utilizes their patented offset ribbon technology, which effortlessly handles sound sources peaking up to an astonishing 160 dB at 1 kHz while maintaining crystal clear, distortion-free audio.

Due to its completely passive electronic design (featuring no active internal preamps), the R-10 eliminates any potential for internal electronic overload or high-frequency phase distortion. It features a classic figure-8 (bi-directional) polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while offering immense sound rejection from the sides. A custom-designed impedance-matching transformer purposefully lowers its sensitivity compared to flagship models (like the R-121), providing massively increased headroom for close-miking very loud sources.

KEY FEATURES

• Incredible SPL handling capabilities for close-miking loud sources (up to 160 dB @ 1 kHz)
• Zero internal active electronics to overload or create distortion under high sound pressure
• Patented offset ribbon transducer utilizing a 2.5-micron pure aluminum element
• Custom 3-layer windscreen system providing superior protection against air blasts and plosives
• Internal shock mount mechanism isolating the delicate ribbon from physical vibrations
• True figure-8 polar pattern delivering equal sensitivity from both the front and rear
• Ribbon element is completely unaffected by heat or high humidity levels
• Compact profile paired with a swivel mount for flexible and non-intrusive placement
• Exceptional phase linearity providing an incredibly smooth and natural sonic signature
• Handcrafted in California by the ribbon microphone experts at Royer Labs

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Transducer Type: Passive Ribbon Microphone
• Polar Pattern: Figure-8 (Bi-Directional)
• Generating Element: 2.5-micron pure aluminum ribbon
• Magnetic Assembly: Rare Earth Neodymium magnets
• Frequency Response: 30 Hz - 15 kHz (+/- 3 dB)
• Sensitivity: -54 dBv Ref. 1 V/Pa
• Output Impedance: 100 Ohms (nominal) balanced
• Maximum SPL: > 135 dB (@ 50 Hz), 160 dB (@ 1 kHz)
• Recommended Load Impedance: 700 Ohms or greater
• Connector Type: Male XLR 3-pin
• Dimensions (L x Diameter): 149 x 35 mm (5.8" x 1.37")
• Weight: 368 g (13 oz)
• Included Accessories: Swivel microphone mount, protective mic sock, and carrying case