Royer Labs R-122 MKII Matched Pair consists of two factory-matched R-122 MKII active ribbon microphones — built on the foundation of the original R-122 from 2002, which was the world's first phantom-powered active ribbon microphone. The MKII preserves the complete architecture of its predecessor and adds two switchable circuits: a -15 dB pad and a bass-cut filter. Both are fully removed from the signal path when disengaged, meaning that with both switches off, the microphone is functionally identical to the original R-122. Active electronics deliver a sensitivity of -36 dB, placing the R-122 MKII on par with studio condenser microphones, with self-noise below 18 dB.
Active electronics, pad, and filter — three levels of control
A hand-wired discrete head amplifier using ultra-low-noise FETs and a custom-wound toroidal transformer maintains a constant, optimal impedance load on the ribbon element regardless of the downstream preamp's 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. The -15 dB pad is positioned before the microphone's electronics, not after — which means that at high SPLs, the signal is attenuated before it reaches any active component, eliminating the possibility of distortion in the microphone or at the preamp input. With the pad engaged, the R-122 MKII's output is 2 dB lower than the passive R-121. The switchable bass-cut filter operates at 100 Hz with a 6 dB per octave slope, providing smooth proximity effect reduction for close-miking and effective rumble suppression. Both switches are recessed into the body to prevent accidental activation.
Faster transient response and matched stereo pair
Royer's purpose-designed toroidal transformer delivers faster transient response than conventional passive ribbon designs — the result is a tighter, more controlled low end and a sense of more open highs, making the R-122 MKII the first-call option over the R-121 for drum overheads, acoustic instruments, strings, and vocals. The patented offset ribbon design (Patent #6,434,252) — identical to the R-121 — positions the ribbon closer to the front of the housing for higher SPL handling from the logo side; the rear side captures a slightly brighter response at distances of approximately three feet and closer (phase reversed in this position). Each R-122 MKII MP set is factory-matched for sensitivity and frequency response, enabling precise stereo configurations. The 200-ohm output impedance supports long cable runs without HF loss or signal degradation. Lifetime warranty to original owner; first ribbon replacement free.
KEY FEATURES
- Two factory-matched R-122 MKII microphones with identical sensitivity and frequency response
- Active Ribbon electronics: -36 dB sensitivity — condenser microphone output level
- 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 fully removed from signal path when disengaged
- Faster transient response than R-121 — preferred for drum overheads, acoustic sources, strings
- Patented offset ribbon design (Patent #6,434,252) — high SPL front, brighter character rear
- Constant optimal ribbon load impedance regardless of preamp
- 200-ohm output — long cable runs without HF loss
- Ribbon element protected from phantom power, electrical transients, miswired cables
- 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon (99.99% Al); 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: 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon (99.99% Al)
- 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) per microphone
- Finish: Burnished Satin Nickel; optional Matte Black Chrome
- Includes: two R-122 MKII microphones, wooden case, mic socks
