Ribbon microphone, a replica of the RCA 44
The AEA R44C is a meticulously handcrafted replica of the legendary RCA 44BX, one of the most iconic ribbon microphones in the history of recording. Designed to faithfully preserve its sound, aesthetics, and behavior, it offers the characteristic smooth, authoritative, and natural response that made the original model a standard in professional studios.
Every component of the AEA R44 series is built with great attention to detail and designed to be interchangeable with parts from the original RCA 44. Even the ribbon material replicates that originally produced for RCA, helping to reproduce an authentic sound character consistent with vintage microphones.
The AEA R44C was developed to match or exceed the output level of a vintage RCA 44 in perfect condition. The large ribbon element produces a response that is rich in the bass, solid in the midrange, and smooth in the high frequencies, with an extremely natural rendering of vocals, strings, woodwinds, piano, guitars, ambience, and orchestral sources.
The response, free of noticeable resonances across the audible range, allows for recordings that are already balanced at the source, reducing the need for drastic corrections during mixing.
Like the original RCA 44 model, the AEA R44C is completely passive and requires no phantom power. This configuration ensures a simple and transparent signal path, as well as exceptional handling of high-sound-pressure-level sources.
With a dynamic range exceeding 165 dB SPL, the microphone can be used even in close proximity to very powerful sound sources without compromising the natural character of the signal. For optimal performance, it is recommended to pair it with a low-noise microphone preamp with an input impedance of 1.2 kΩ or higher.
The native figure-8 polar pattern offers equivalent sensitivity at the front and rear of the microphone, with strong side-lobe attenuation. This characteristic allows for effective control of ambient reflections and makes the AEA R44C particularly well-suited for Mid-Side and Blumlein stereo configurations.
In the horizontal plane, the frequency response remains consistent as the angle changes, while the level gradually decreases until it reaches an attenuation of approximately 35 dB at 90° and 270°. In the vertical plane, the high-frequency response attenuates above and below the main axis, offering additional possibilities for tonal control through positioning.
The transducer element uses a pure aluminum ribbon that is 1.8 μm thick, 4.7 mm wide, and 59.7 mm long. The ribbon’s generous dimensions contribute to the extended low-frequency response, high sensitivity to transients, and the characteristic three-dimensional sound of AEA’s Big Ribbon Mics™.
The AEA R44C is handcrafted using cast bronze components, chosen to replace the zinc parts found in the original RCA models, which were more prone to corrosion over time. This solution ensures greater durability and longevity without altering the microphone’s historic aesthetic.
The R44C version features the black-and-silver AEA emblem and comes complete with the iconic “streamline moderne”-style case, featuring a black finish and polished nickel accents.
The package includes a 3-meter fabric-sleeved Accusound Silver Studio Pro cable, a zippered canvas bag, and the AEA 44VC vertical case, designed to properly store the microphone when not in use.
The AEA R44C is the ideal choice for recording studios, orchestral productions, broadcast applications, and professionals who want the true character of the RCA 44BX in a modern, reliable microphone built to high standards of craftsmanship.
Technical Specifications
Power Type
Passive
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Order by 11:00 a.m., we will ship by the day 02/08/2026
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