AEA R44CX

Passive ribbon microphone with high output level

• Handcrafted replica of the legendary RCA 44BX ribbon microphone
• X-Motor transducer with 6 dB more output than the R44C model
• Native bidirectional figure-8 polar pattern
• Warm, spacious, and three-dimensional sound with authoritative mids and lows
• Smooth high frequencies, ideal for taming bright or aggressive sound sources
• Extended frequency response from less than 20 Hz to over 20 kHz
• Capable of handling sound pressure levels exceeding 171 dB SPL
• Ideal for vocals, strings, woodwinds, piano, guitar, drums, and orchestra
• Handcrafted with components interchangeable with the original RCA 44
• Passive microphone that does not require phantom power

The AEA R44CX is a high-output passive ribbon microphone, designed as a faithful replica of the legendary RCA 44BX. Considered one of the most musical microphones ever made, the 44BX defined the sound of numerous historic recordings thanks to its ability to reproduce vocals and instruments with depth, warmth, and naturalness.

The R44CX model preserves the sonic character of the original while adding a modified X-Motor transducer that delivers 6 dB more output than the R44C version. This increased sensitivity makes it particularly well-suited for classical and orchestral sessions, as well as any application requiring a wide dynamic range without sacrificing the traditional sound of the 44 series.

The authentic character of the legendary RCA 44BX

The AEA R44CX naturally enhances the low-mid range and elegantly smooths out the most challenging high frequencies. The result is a full, three-dimensional, and musical sound that brings out the source’s personality without introducing harshness.

It can be used with a wide variety of instruments and environments, from solo vocals to full orchestras. Its smooth high-frequency response also makes it ideal for very bright sources, such as brass, strings, cymbals, guitar amplifiers, and percussion.

High-Output X-Motor Transducer

At the heart of the AEA R44CX is the X-Motor transducer, a modified version of the classic R44 motor. Two additional magnets increase the output level by approximately 6 dB, while preserving the tonal character of the original model.

This configuration delivers a more robust signal, reducing the amount of gain required from the preamp. The benefit is particularly evident when recording delicate sources, acoustic instruments, and distant ensembles.

Figure-8 Bidirectional Polar Pattern

The native figure-8 polar pattern captures sound from the front and rear of the microphone, offering strong lateral rejection. Rejection can reach 90 dB at 90° from the front and rear axes, allowing for precise control of bleed and ambient reflections.

This feature makes the microphone particularly effective in Mid-Side and Blumlein stereo configurations, orchestral recordings, duet recordings, and any situation where you want to naturally integrate the sound of the room.

Natural and Consistent Off-Axis Response

The vertical response varies in level depending on the angle of incidence, while maintaining a consistent frequency response. This quality ensures a stable and musical sound image even when the sound source is not perfectly aligned with the microphone.

Ideal for vocal and instrumental recordings

The AEA R44CX gives vocals an authoritative presence, smoothing out sibilance and harsh frequencies without losing articulation. On acoustic and orchestral instruments, it offers depth, realism, and a sense of space that is difficult to achieve with more modern, bright-sounding microphones.

Its ability to handle sound pressure levels exceeding 171 dB SPL also allows the microphone to be used on amplifiers, brass instruments, percussion, and other high-volume sources without risk of overloading the transducer.

Handcrafted Construction and Historical Fidelity

The microphones in the AEA R44 series share the look, feel, and authentic sound of the RCA 44BX models produced between 1936 and 1938. Each unit is handcrafted using components designed to be interchangeable with those of an original RCA 44.

The R44CX model is recognizable by its distinctive red badge, which sets it apart from the R44C version, which features a black badge.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Passive ribbon microphone
• Operating principle: pressure gradient transducer
• Transducer: High-output X-Motor
• Output level increase: 6 dB compared to the AEA R44C
• Polar pattern: bidirectional figure-8
• Frequency response: below 20 Hz – above 20 kHz
• Maximum SPL: over 171 dB SPL, 1% third-harmonic distortion above 1 kHz
• Sensitivity: 2.25 mV/Pa, equivalent to -53 dBV, unloaded
• Output impedance: 270 Ω broadband
• Recommended load impedance: 1.2 kΩ or higher
• Phantom power: not required
• Polarity: Pin 2 positive for positive pressure in front of the microphone
• Horizontal side rejection: up to 90 dB at 90° relative to the front-to-back axis
• Vertical response: the level varies with the angle of incidence, while maintaining a consistent frequency response
• Transducer material: aluminum ribbon
• Ribbon thickness: 1.8 μm
• Ribbon width: 4.7 mm
• Ribbon length: 59.7 mm
• Connector: Male XLR-3
• Construction: handcrafted
• Distinctive feature: red badge