AEA N28

Active Stereo Ribbon Microphone

• Active stereo ribbon microphone with fixed Blumlein configuration
• Two bidirectional transducers perfectly matched within ±0.5 dB
• Extended frequency response from less than 20 Hz to over 20 kHz
• Lehle 1:89 output transformers for maximum sonic transparency
• New low-impedance active buffer circuit
• Ideal for natural stereo recordings, environments, and acoustic instruments
• Compact, easily positionable body
• 48V phantom power
• Comes with an XLR-5 breakout cable, anti-vibration mount, and carrying case

The AEA N28 is an active stereo ribbon microphone designed to deliver extremely natural and precise stereo recordings thanks to its fixed Blumlein configuration. Designed for professional recording studios, music production, and high-end acoustic recordings, it combines the classic musicality of AEA ribbon microphones with modern active electronics that ensure high sensitivity, low noise, and consistent performance with any preamp.

Blumlein Configuration for Realistic Stereo Images

The AEA N28 features two carefully selected bidirectional (Figure-8) ribbon transducers, matched to a tolerance of just ±0.5 dB between the two channels. This fixed Blumlein configuration delivers a wide, coherent, and perfectly focused stereo image, ideal for ensembles, piano, strings, choirs, percussion, drums, ambient sounds, and orchestral recordings.

The off-axis response maintains an extremely uniform tonal balance, helping to reproduce depth, spatiality, and realism without unwanted coloration.

Active ribbon stereo microphone for professional recording

Unlike traditional passive microphones, the AEA N28 uses a newly designed active buffer circuit paired with Lehle transformers featuring a 1:89 ratio. This architecture ensures a higher output level, stable performance with any preamp, and an extremely transparent response, preserving all the nuances typical of ribbon technology.

Natural sound with a full frequency response

The frequency response extends from just under 20 Hz to over 20 kHz, delivering deep bass, detailed mids, and smooth, natural highs. The microphone’s unique tuning of the low-frequency response for the midrange makes it particularly effective even during close-range stereo recordings without excessive emphasis of the proximity effect.

Compact design and ease of use

The N28’s body is designed to facilitate placement even in complex setups. While maintaining compact dimensions compared to other ribbon stereo microphones, it offers all the durability needed for daily studio use.

The 48-volt phantom power supply makes the microphone ready to use right away, while the included accessory kit allows you to tackle any recording session from the very first use.

AEA N28: The Ideal Solution for High-Fidelity Stereo Recording

Thanks to the combination of ribbon technology, a Blumlein configuration, active electronics, and the highest-quality components, the AEA N28 is a professional solution for those who want to capture a wide, detailed, and incredibly natural stereo image. It is the ideal microphone for recording studios, sound engineers, and musicians seeking the highest sound fidelity in stereo recordings.

Technical Specifications

• Type: active ribbon stereo microphone
• Operating principle: pressure gradient transducer
• Configuration: Fixed Blumlein with two bidirectional (Figure-8) capsules
• Transducers matched to within ±0.5 dB
• Frequency response: below 20 Hz – above 20 kHz
• Maximum SPL: 135 dB SPL @ 1 kHz
• Sensitivity: 6.10 mV/Pa (-44.3 dBV)
• Output impedance: 92 Ω
• Recommended load impedance: ≥ 1 kΩ
• Output transformers: Lehle, 1:89 ratio
• Power Supply: 48V Phantom Power (7 mA)
• Transducer element: corrugated aluminum ribbon
• Ribbon thickness: 1.8 μm
• Ribbon width: 2.2 mm
• Strip length: 33.3 mm
• Dimensions: 270 mm high
• Weight: 400 g
• Connector: XLR-5M
• Included accessories: hard case, shock mount, windscreen, soft pouch, 15-foot XLR-5 breakout cable, user manual