AEA R88A

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AEA R88A

AEA

R88A

4.4 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 566695
Brand: AEA
Model: R88A
Price: $3,628.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The AEA R88A is a phenomenal stereo ribbon mic, offering a refined and classic sound with a welcome level boost. Its active design and dual ribbon configuration make it perfect for tracking vocals, acoustic instruments, and capturing spacious room tones—especially valuable for engineers seeking that vintage ribbon character without the noise floor of older designs. It's a serious tool for professional studios and experienced engineers.

Product Description

  • AEA R88A
  • Stereo Ribbon Microphone
  • Active version of the R88 mkII with a level boost of 12 dB
  • Can also be used as a mid-side configuration
  • 2 Ribbons placed 90º apart with figure-of-eight polar pattern
  • 1.8 µm thin aluminium ribbon each (4.7 x 59.7 mm)
  • Frequency range: 20 - 20
  • 000 Hz
  • Maximum sound pressure level: 141 dB SPL
  • Sensitivity: 7.4 mV/Pa (-42.6 dBV)
  • Output impedance: 92 Ohm
  • Requires 48V phantom power
  • Connector: XLR-5M plug
  • Dimensions (H x D): 381 x 99 mm
  • Weight: 2.8 kg
  • Incl. 4.5 m cable XLR
  • 5F-plug to 2 x XLR3-M
  • swivel adapter
  • protective cover and high-quality carrying case
  • Handmade in USA
PROS
  • • Active circuit provides a significant level boost, easing gain staging challenges.
  • • Thin 1.8µm aluminum ribbon delivers a remarkably smooth and detailed high-end response.
  • • Figure-8 stereo configuration excels at capturing natural room ambiance and stereo width.
  • • Robust construction and handmade quality ensure exceptional durability and longevity.
CONS
  • • Significant weight (2.8kg) makes it less ideal for mobile or overhead mic setups.
  • • Requires 48V phantom power, limiting compatibility with some older or tube-based gear.
  • • High-end price point places it firmly in the professional recording studio category.

Product Video

Key Features

Mic Type Ribbon Microphone
Polar Pattern Figure-of-Eight (Stereo)
Frequency Range 20 - 20,000 Hz
Max SPL 141 dB SPL
Sensitivity -42.6 dBV
Connector XLR-5M
Weight 2.8 kg

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Frequently Asked Questions

The active circuit introduces a subtle warmth and increased headroom, allowing for more aggressive sources without distortion, and eliminates the need for a preamp with significant gain.
Yes, the R88A’s high SPL handling (141 dB) makes it surprisingly versatile, but be mindful of potential proximity effect and experiment with placement.
The mid-side setup allows for precise control over stereo width and imaging during mixing, offering greater flexibility than traditional stereo techniques.

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