AEA R44CE

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

• Faithful replica of the legendary RCA 44BX ribbon microphone
• Same ribbon, transformer, and sound character as the AEA R44C model
• Simplified black and silver exterior finish
• Full, rich sound with warm bass, authoritative mids, and smooth highs
• Native bidirectional figure-8 polar pattern
• Frequency response from 20 Hz to 15 kHz
• Capable of handling sound pressure levels exceeding 165 dB SPL
• Ideal for vocals, strings, brass, woodwinds, drums, and ambient recording
• Passive microphone that does not require phantom power
• Handcrafted using ribbon material originally manufactured for RCA

The AEA R44CE is a passive ribbon microphone that offers the same transducer, the same transformer, and the same sonic character as the prestigious AEA R44C, housed in a simpler and more affordable enclosure.

The design is directly derived from the legendary RCA 44BX, one of the most important microphones in the history of recording. Used for over eighty years on vocals, orchestras, brass, strings, drums, and electric instruments, the 44 has become famous for its full, natural, and three-dimensional sound.

The authentic sound of the AEA R44 series

The AEA R44CE uncompromisingly preserves the acoustic character of the R44C model. The large ribbon element delivers deep bass, rich mids, and a smooth high end, naturally softening the harshness of the brightest sound sources.

The strong proximity effect allows for impressive low frequencies in close-up recordings, while positioning at a greater distance offers a balanced and realistic reproduction of both the environment and the sound source.

Simplified Finish, Uncompromised Performance

The CE version was designed to make the classic AEA R44 sound more accessible. The simplification applies exclusively to the exterior casing and certain mechanical components, without altering the ribbon, the transformer, or the sound quality.

The microphone features a one-piece shock mount, a nickel-satin-finished steel yoke, and a professional XLR output cable. The result is a rugged and reliable tool, designed for everyday studio use.

A Faithful Replica of the RCA 44BX

AEA developed the R44 series after decades dedicated to the maintenance and restoration of original RCA microphones. Each component has been rebuilt according to the historical design, using parts compatible with original RCA 44 models and ribbon material manufactured to period specifications.

The design combines the classic American undamped ribbon transducer with certain engineering solutions adopted by RCA’s British division, developed to reduce weight and susceptibility to hum.

Bidirectional Figure-8 Polar Pattern

The bidirectional polar pattern captures sound from the front and rear of the microphone, significantly reducing lateral sensitivity. This feature allows you to control bleed, isolate nearby sources, and take advantage of professional stereo techniques such as Blumlein and Mid-Side.

The off-axis response remains consistent in the horizontal plane, while in the vertical plane, high frequencies are progressively attenuated as the angle changes. This allows you to shape the tone through microphone placement as well.

Ideal for vocals, instruments, and ambient recording

The AEA R44CE is particularly effective on vocals, imparting body and smoothness without accentuating sibilance or harsh frequencies. On brass and woodwinds, it naturally smooths out harshness, while on strings, guitars, and piano, it delivers a wide, musical soundstage.

Used as an overhead or ambient microphone for drums, it captures natural transients, deep low frequencies, and a realistic sense of space. Its ability to handle levels exceeding 165 dB SPL also allows it to be placed in front of amplifiers, percussion, and very powerful sound sources.

A More Accessible Studio Classic

The AEA R44CE is the ideal choice for studios, producers, and musicians who want the true sound of the R44 series without the museum-quality finish of the R44C model. It offers the same sonic character, musical response, and transducer quality in a more stripped-down and affordable version.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Passive ribbon microphone
• Operating principle: pressure gradient transducer
• Polar pattern: bidirectional figure-8
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 15 kHz
• Maximum SPL: over 165 dB SPL, 1% third-harmonic distortion
• Sensitivity: 2.25 mV/Pa, equivalent to -53 dBV, unloaded
• Output impedance: 270 Ω nominal
• Recommended load impedance: 1.2 kΩ or higher
• Phantom power: not required or recommended
• Polarity: Pin 2 positive for positive pressure on the front
• Connector: Male XLR-3 with integrated 3-meter cable
• Horizontal response: level varies with angle and consistent frequency response
• Lateral rejection: -35 dB at 90° and 270°
• Vertical response: progressive attenuation of high frequencies off-axis
• Ribbon material: pure aluminum
• Ribbon thickness: 1.8 μm
• Diaphragm width: 4.7 mm
• Diaphragm length: 59.7 mm
• Height: 31.1 cm
• Width: 11.7 cm
• Depth: 8.3 cm
• Weight with cable: 3.43 kg
• Finish: black and silver
• Included accessories:
  • Custom storage and carrying case
  • Microphone stand adapter
  • User manual