sE Electronics RNR1: Where Vintage Ribbon and Neve Precision Come Together
The sE Electronics RNR1 is not just another ribbon microphone; it is an engineering masterpiece that leaves behind the limitations of traditional ribbons. Whereas normal ribbons often have a strong roll-off in the high end from 7 kHz onward, the RNR1 delivers a flat and detailed response well above the human hearing threshold. This makes it one of the most sought-after microphones for modern high-fidelity recording.
The Magic of Rupert Neve Transformers
At the heart of the RNR1 are two custom-made Rupert Neve transformers. These provide tremendous headroom and a signal path free of noise, while adding the characteristic musicality that Neve equipment is known for. The result is a sound that is “meaty” and warm in the low-mid, but incredibly open and airy in the highs.
Innovative Ribbon Construction
To enable the extended frequency response, sE Electronics has developed an ultra-thin diaphragm (only 2.5 µm) with patented mechanical filtering. As a result, the RNR1 captures the fastest transients-like the touch of a piano or the details of a stringed instrument-without losing the natural warmth of the ribbon element.
Key Features:
Active Electronics: Thanks to the internal gain stage, the RNR1 has a much higher output than passive ribbons. You don’t need special “high-gain” preamps to get the best out of this microphone.
Figure-8 Pattern: Ideal for capturing a natural stereo image or recording instruments in a room with nice acoustics.
Filter & Pad: Features a switchable 100 Hz low-cut filter to eliminate “rumble” and a -10 dB pad for extremely loud sources.
Professional Construction: Supplied in a beautiful wooden case, including a specially designed shockmount and a rugged flight case.
Applications:
The RNR1 is the ultimate tool for sources that require both heat and detail:
Orchestral instruments: Violins, cellos and brass instruments sound natural and never sharp.
Piano: Captures the full breadth and dynamics of a grand piano.
Drum Overheads: Gives cymbals a silky smooth sheen without the “fizz” of condenser microphones.
Guitar amps: Delivers the pressure of a cabinet with the definition of the strings.
Technical specifications
Type: Active Ribbon
Ribbon: 2.5 µm aluminum
Electronics: Rupert Neve Designs Class-A
Directing characteristic: Figure-8
Frequency range: 20 Hz – 25 kHz
Max SPL: 135 dB
Self-noise: 18 dB(A)
