
So what is a ribbon microphone exactly, and how do ribbon microphones work? In 2002, the first active ribbon microphone was introduced to the marketplace (Royer R-122). Ribbon microphones have been passive since their introduction in 1931 (RCA PB-31). It is only the ribbon mics with added amplifiers and active circuits that are active. Therefore, ribbon microphones are naturally passive. Ribbon microphone transducers convert sound waves (mechanical wave energy) into audio (electrical energy) via an electrically conductive ribbon-like diaphragm, a permanent magnetic structure, and the process of electromagnetic induction.Įlectromagnetic induction (which is the same working principle of dynamic microphones) is passive. The top 12 best passive ribbon microphones on the market are:īefore we get into each individual microphone to discuss their position on the list, we'll go over the definition of a passive ribbon mic and the factors that have influenced this list.ĬLICK HERE TO SKIP AHEAD TO THE TOP 12 BEST PASSIVE RIBBON MICROPHONES ON THE MARKET Like any mic type, some passive ribbon microphones are better than others, and in this article, we'll have a look at the top 12 best passive ribbon mics on the market today.



Ribbon mics work on the passive principle of electromagnetic induction and are, by nature, passive devices. Their natural, accurate sound is greatly valued in the exactness and “sterility” of digital recording. Ribbon microphones have been continuously rising in popularity since the advent of digital recording.
