Golden Age Audio R1A Premier Active Ribbon Microphone

What is the Golden Age Project R1A Premier Active Ribbon Microphone
The Golden Age Project R1A Premier Active Ribbon Microphone is a top-tier ribbon mic designed for professionals seeking a smooth, realistic sound with exceptional detail. This active microphone builds on the renowned R1 Active design but incorporates superior internal components to take the performance to the next level. With its Lundahl 1927A transformer, discrete amplifier, and high-quality capacitors, the R1A Premier delivers pristine audio quality ideal for capturing nuanced sound sources like vocals, guitars, and drums. Its combination of vintage ribbon warmth and modern upgrades ensures that it works seamlessly with both quiet and loud sound sources, making it a versatile addition to any studio setup.

Upgraded Components for Unmatched Sound Quality
The Golden Age R1A Premier features carefully selected components that contribute to its ultra-realistic sound. At the heart of the mic is the Swedish-made Lundahl 1927A transformer, which is known for its excellent transparency and low distortion. This transformer is paired with a discrete amplifier and high-end audio capacitors, such as Wima film and Nichicon electrolytic, to produce a clean, true-to-life sound. These premium internal components make a noticeable difference, providing richer tonal detail and a fuller, more balanced response compared to the standard R1 Active microphone.

High SPL Handling for Versatile Applications
One of the standout features of the R1A Premier is its ability to handle extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL) of up to 160dB, thanks to its robust design. This makes it an excellent choice for recording loud sound sources, such as guitar cabinets, drum kits, and brass instruments, without risk of distortion or damage. The included 10dB pad ensures that even with high SPLs, the mic maintains a clean signal with minimal noise. The high SPL handling does not come at the cost of sensitivity, making this microphone equally adept at capturing subtle, quieter performances with the same level of detail.

Capturing Nuanced Sound with High Sensitivity
Despite its ability to handle loud sound sources, the R1A Premier retains a high degree of sensitivity, similar to that of condenser microphones. This makes it ideal for capturing delicate and nuanced vocal performances or soft acoustic instruments with clarity and precision. The microphone’s ability to pick up even the smallest nuances in a recording ensures that it is a reliable tool for professional engineers and musicians alike. Whether you’re recording a whispering vocal or a thunderous drum hit, the R1A Premier delivers a consistent, high-quality sound.

Wide Sweet Spots and Side Rejection with Figure-8 Polar Pattern
The Golden Age R1A Premier features a figure-8 polar pattern, which provides wide sweet spots on both the front and rear of the microphone. This unique polar pattern not only captures a more natural stereo image but also offers excellent rejection of unwanted side noise. The figure-8 pattern is especially useful in recording environments where you want to capture sound from both the front and rear of the microphone while isolating it from the surrounding room or other instruments. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing detailed, focused recordings in any setup, from vocals to orchestral instruments.

Switchable Highpass Filter and Versatile Design
The R1A Premier is equipped with a switchable highpass filter, which allows you to cut low-end rumble and unwanted noise that can muddy up your recordings. This feature is particularly useful when recording instruments like drums or bass-heavy sources, where low-end buildup can be problematic. The filter ensures that you maintain a clean, clear recording without having to rely on excessive post-production EQ. Additionally, the microphone comes with a detachable Mogami cable and durable gold-plated Neutrik connectors, ensuring long-lasting reliability and ease of setup in any studio environment.