aea r84

ribbonmics & preamps since 1964
www.ribbonmics.com | tel: +1-626-798-9128 | fax: +1-626-798-2378
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aea r84
PHANTOM-POWERED VERSION OF THE R84 RIBBON MIC
{THE WORKHORSE RIBBON MICROPHONE}
• Same Big Ribbon™ and tuning as the R44 series.
• Phantom powered R84 with 12 dB more sensitivity.
• Intimate performance quality and optimal for soft sound sources.
• Custom German toroidal transformer and JFET electronics.
• Same award-winning sound as the passive R84.
• 100% handcrafted in Pasadena, CA.
{HOW IS THE A840 DIFFERENT FROM OTHER RIBBON MICROPHONES?}
The A840 delivers the same award-winning sound as its passive sibling, the R84.
With 12dB more sensitivity and a high-current output, the A840 delivers articulate
sound in situations that can challenge a passive ribbon: handling long cable runs or
matching low-gain vintage preamps. The signal strength and flexibility of active JFET
electronics combined with the luxurious warmth of a Big Ribbon™ all wrapped up in
an affordable package is what sets this microphone apart. The A840 microphone
continues to gain followers with its natural sound, articulate midrange, and forgiving
nature.
{WHAT IS UNDER THE HOOD?}
The AEA A840 uses a big, 2.35” by 0.185” by 2-micron pure aluminum low-tension (16.5
Hz) ribbon element just like the classic R44. With phantom-powered JFET electronics
and a custom German transformer, the A840 achieves optimal performance
with a wide choice of preamps ranging from vintage high-end models to USB
audio interfaces in home studio setups. The A840’s high output and immunity to
impedance-loading offer more flexibility and mitigates noise problems in low signal
level applications or on stage with long cable runs.
“Transients were crisp and
clear, without any hint of
ringing or edginess, and the
frequency extremes were
smooth and extended.”
{ABOUT THE ACTIVE SERIES}
In 1976, when General Electric bought RCA and closed down its microphone
division AEA began servicing RCA’s legendary ribbon mics. Twenty-two years
later, AEA reissued the iconic 44 ribbon mic and has continued to make ribbon
microphones in the RCA tradition to this day. AEA’s Active Series microphones, the
A840, and the A440, are the high-output, phantom-powered counterparts of the
R84 and R44CX. With their immunity to impedance-loading, advantages in noise
performance and JFET technology, these ultra-quiet ribbons have quickly become a
Hugh Robjohns, Technical Author at
Sound on Sound Magazine. favorite of even the most critical ears.
Specifications:
Operating Principle:
Directional Pattern:
Frequency Range:
Maximum SPL:
Sensitivity:
Output Impedance:
Recommended Load Impedance:
Phantom Power:
Polarity:
Polar Response:
Horizontal:
Vertical:
Transducer Element Material:
Thickness:
Width:
Length:
Microphone Dimensions
Height:
Width:
Depth:
Weight with cable:
Shipping Weight:
Connector:
Options
M
Matched stereo pair
Accessories
Included:
Vertical softcase, user manual, captive 10” (3
meter) output cable with XLR-3M connector.
Limited Warranty:
One year parts and labor, shipping not included.
Extended to three years if product is registered
with AEA.
For more information contact:
Manufactured by AEA Ribbon Mics & Preamps
1029 N. Allen Ave. Pasadena, California 91104, USA
Tel: +626-798-9128 Fax: +626-798-2378 www.ribbonmics.com
Pressure gradient transducer
Bidirectional
<20 Hz to >20 kHz
141 + dB SPL (1% third harmonic > 1 kHz)
6.3 mV/Pa (-44 dBv/Pa) into unloaded circuit
92 Ω broadband
1.0K Ω or greater
P48 phantom power, 7 mA
Pin 2 high for positive pressure on front of microphone
Native bidirectional, figure-of-8 pattern
Up to 90 dB rejection at right angles to the front/
back axis.
Level changes with angle of incidence, but
frequency response is consistent.
Pure aluminum corrugated ribbon
1.8 µm
0.185 in (4.7 mm)
2.35 in (59.7 mm)
11.6 in (29.5 cm)
3.9 in (9.9 cm)
2.5 in (6.4 cm)
3 lb (1.36 kg)
4 lb (1.8 kg)
XLR-3M