AEA R44CXE

Ribbon microphone, replica of the RCA 44 (more affordable finish, high output level)

• Faithful replica of the legendary RCA 44B/BX microphone
• Version with 6 dB more output than the original model
• Native bidirectional figure-8 polar pattern
• Custom AEA transformer and pure aluminum ribbon
• Warm, rich, and three-dimensional sound with authoritative mids and lows
• Handles sound pressure levels exceeding 140 dB SPL
• Frequency response from less than 30 Hz to over 20 kHz
• Handcrafted using components derived from the original RCA design
• Ideal for vocals, woodwinds, strings, guitar, piano, and orchestra
• Simplified finish version to offer the classic R44 sound at a more affordable price

The AEA R44CXE is a passive ribbon microphone that faithfully reproduces the design of the legendary RCA 44B/BX, one of the most iconic microphones in the history of recording. Designed and built by Audio Engineering Associates according to the original 1930s design, it retains the warm, deep, and natural sonic character that made the 44 an absolute benchmark in recording studios around the world.

The R44CXE version incorporates the “X” modification, which increases the output level by approximately 6 dB compared to the original RCA, while maintaining the classic tone but offering a more robust signal and greater ease of use with any preamp.

The classic RCA sound with higher output level

The transducer uses the same ribbon material as the original models, combined with modern, high-efficiency magnets and an AEA transformer specifically designed to deliver maximum performance.

The result is a microphone that preserves all the musicality of the RCA 44, offering a slightly more present response and a higher output level, ideal for orchestral recordings, acoustic music, jazz, soundtracks, and vocal productions.

Construction Faithful to the Historic Design

After years of research, AEA has recreated the original design, sourcing the materials, tools, and specifications used in the production of the first RCA 44s. Each microphone is crafted to the highest professional standards and remains fully compatible with the historic design.

The large, undamped ribbon element, its extremely low resonance frequency, and its unique construction combine to create a tone that is impossible to replicate with modern, smaller ribbon microphones.

Three-dimensional sound for any source

The AEA R44CXE offers an extremely natural response to vocals, delivering presence, depth, and a consistently smooth high end. On saxophones, trumpets, strings, piano, and electric guitar, it produces the rich, three-dimensional sound image that made the RCA 44 design famous.

The bidirectional polar pattern also allows for the use of stereo techniques such as Blumlein and Mid-Side, while ensuring excellent lateral separation thanks to its deep 90° rejection.

High Dynamic Range

The microphone can handle sound pressure levels exceeding 140 dB SPL without significant distortion, making it ideal for use in front of guitar amplifiers, brass instruments, percussion, and other high-volume sources.

Like all AEA passive ribbon microphones, it requires no phantom power and delivers reliable performance even in high-humidity environments.

Professional performance with a streamlined finish

The R44CXE version is designed to deliver the renowned sound of the R44 series while featuring a more minimalist exterior finish compared to the premium models. This approach focuses on acoustic design and build quality, making one of the most acclaimed ribbon microphones in history more accessible.

Technical Specifications

• Type: passive ribbon microphone
• Replica of the RCA 44B/BX design
• X Version: approximately 6 dB more output than the original model
• Polar pattern: bidirectional (figure-8)
• Frequency response: from less than 30 Hz to over 20 kHz
• Maximum SPL: over 140 dB SPL above 200 Hz (1% THD)
• Sensitivity: 2.25 mV/Pa
• Output impedance: 270 Ω
• Recommended load impedance: 1.2 kΩ or higher
• Phantom power: not required
• Polarity: Pin 2 positive for positive pressure on the front side
• Connector: XLR-3M with integrated 2-meter cable
• Off-axis polar pattern: Figure-8 with a null of up to 90 dB at 90°/270°
• Ribbon material: pure aluminum
• Ribbon thickness: 1.8 μm
• Ribbon width: 4.7 mm
• Ribbon length: 59.7 mm
• Microphone length: 31.1 cm
• Width: 11.7 cm
• Depth: 8.3 cm
• Weight with case: approximately 3.4 kg
• Included accessories:
  • Gray twill zippered bag
  • Low-profile tabletop stand