Royer Labs R-122 MKII Live Matched Pair consists of two factory-matched R-122 MKII Live active ribbon microphones — the road-optimized variant of the studio R-122 MKII, built for FOH and monitor engineers who need condenser-level output, daily touring durability, and direct SPL and low-end control at the microphone itself. The single difference from the studio version is the ribbon element: 4 microns instead of 2.5 microns — more resistant to road abuse, with a slightly attenuated high-frequency response that on stage translates to less corrective EQ work on guitars and brass. Active electronics deliver the same -36 dB sensitivity as the studio MKII. The Live variant is identified by a red logo badge.
Active electronics, pad, and filter — regardless of stage SPL
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 irrespective 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 additional noise. 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 bass-cut filter operates at 100 Hz with a 6 dB per octave slope, controlling proximity effect buildup 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 matched pair on stage
Royer's purpose-designed toroidal transformer delivers faster transient response than passive ribbon designs — producing tighter, more controlled low end and a sense of more open highs, making the R-122 MKII Live the go-to choice for live drum overheads, horn sections, and acoustic instruments on stage. 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 figure-eight pattern, with strong side and top/bottom rejection, allows effective bleed control — orienting the ears toward monitors or adjacent instruments virtually eliminates pickup from those directions. Each MP set is factory-matched. Lifetime warranty to original owner; first ribbon replacement free.
KEY FEATURES
- Two factory-matched R-122 MKII Live microphones with identical sensitivity and frequency response
- 4-micron aluminum ribbon — increased road durability vs. 2.5-micron studio version
- 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
- Naturally rolled-off high end — less corrective EQ needed at FOH on guitars and brass
- Faster transient response — drum overheads, brass sections, acoustic instruments 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
- Visually differentiated from studio version by red logo badge
- 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) per microphone
- Finish: Dull Satin Nickel; optional Matte Black Chrome
- Includes: two R-122 MKII Live microphones, wooden case, mic socks
