AEA Ribbon Mics

Since 1976, AEA Ribbon Mics has been a leader in ribbon microphone design, restoration, and manufacturing. Founded by Wes Dooley, AEA inherited RCA’s legendary microphone expertise, allowing them to restore and replicate classic ribbon microphones with precision. With decades of experience, AEA has become the go-to brand for engineers, producers, and musicians seeking premium-quality ribbon microphones for studio and live recording applications.

The Legacy of the AEA R44 Series

The AEA R44 series faithfully reproduces the legendary RCA 44BX, a microphone responsible for some of the most iconic recordings of the 20th century. Using new old stock RCA ribbon material, these handcrafted microphones deliver unmatched warmth, depth, and vintage tone. Ideal for vocals, brass, strings, and orchestral recordings, the AEA R44C, R44CE, and R44CXE ensure consistency and authenticity in every take. Pairing them with AEA’s high-impedance ribbon preamps, such as the TRP3, RPQ3, or RPQ500, unlocks their full sonic potential.

AEA Nuvo Series – Modern Ribbon Microphones for Today’s Studios

AEA doesn’t just recreate vintage classics; they innovate. The AEA Nuvo N22 and AEA Nuvo N8 push the boundaries of ribbon microphone performance. The N22 is a rugged, near-field ribbon mic perfect for close-miking guitar amps, acoustic instruments, and drums, delivering a balanced frequency response with minimal proximity effect. On the other hand, the N8 is a far-field ribbon mic that excels at capturing room ambience, complex sources, and immersive stereo recordings. Whether you need a detailed close-mic or an expansive room sound, the Nuvo Series offers versatility and modern ribbon mic technology.

AEA R88 – The Ultimate Stereo Ribbon Microphone

For open and natural stereo recordings, the AEA R88 is a top choice among engineers. Designed with dual ribbon elements in a fixed Blumlein and mid-side configuration, the R88 stereo ribbon mic captures a full, rich soundstage. With an extended top-end and reduced proximity effect, it retains the warmth of classic ribbon mics while delivering modern clarity. From drum overheads to orchestral ensembles, the R88 ribbon microphone is a go-to tool for professionals seeking superior stereo imaging.

AEA KU4 – The Most Flexible Ribbon Microphone

Most ribbon microphones feature a figure-eight polar pattern, but the AEA KU4 stands out with its supercardioid design, allowing for superior off-axis rejection and reduced room noise. This makes it one of the most versatile ribbon microphones for vocals, percussion, and high SPL sources like guitar cabinets and brass instruments. Unlike traditional ribbons, the KU4 ribbon mic can be placed close to the source without excessive proximity effect, making it ideal for live sound and studio tracking