Royer Labs R-122 MKII is a phantom-powered active ribbon microphone — the updated version of the original R-122 from 2002, 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 -36 dB sensitivity, placing the R-122 MKII on par with studio condenser microphones, with self-noise below 18 dB. Hand-wired and assembled at Royer's facility in Burbank, California.
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: at high SPLs, the signal is attenuated before reaching 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 high-pass filter operates at 100 Hz with a 6 dB per octave slope, providing proximity effect control and rumble suppression. Both switches are recessed into the body to prevent accidental activation.
Faster transient response and patented offset ribbon
Royer's purpose-designed toroidal transformer delivers faster transient response than conventional passive ribbon designs — producing tighter, more controlled low end and a sense of more open highs. Engineers frequently reach for the R-122 MKII over the R-121 for drum overheads, acoustic instruments, strings, and vocals precisely for this reason; the R-121 is sometimes preferred for electric guitars and brass where a less open top end is an advantage. 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 in this position). The 200-ohm output impedance supports long cable runs without signal loss. Lifetime warranty to the original owner; first ribbon replacement free.
KEY FEATURES
- 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 recessed and fully removed from signal path when disengaged
- Faster transient response than R-121 — drum overheads, acoustic instruments, strings, vocals
- 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
- Hand-wired and assembled in Burbank, California
- 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)
- Finish: Burnished Satin Nickel; optional Matte Black Chrome
- Includes: R-122 MKII microphone, wooden case, mic sock
