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Post by ironinthepath on Nov 3, 2023 20:39:53 GMT -6
Has anybody compared the "high output" vs. standard versions of AEA's R44 mics? If I buy the high output version of either (ignoring price here please), will I be missing out sonically compared to the standard for close mic'ing? Or is it really just like getting an extra 6dB of the same sound?
Basically, I have in my hands a "high output" version (R44CX) that I bought used, but sill within a very short return window. I am wondering if I should have opted for the other non-X version with lower output.
Also, I am not 100% sure this is a healthy specimen anyway.
Any advice appreciated.
Thanks!
-Chris
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Post by ab101 on Nov 3, 2023 22:51:49 GMT -6
I have not tried the the high output versions of AEA mics, except that I had a pair of active A-440s which is there most expensive mics, and I have a pair of the 44ce mics which is their least expensive 44s, and I like the 44ces every bit as much as the A-440s, with the added bonus that I can get more of my preamp sound in with the 44ces.
So, at least in this case, having a higher output does not necessarily mean it sounds better, especially with a really good preamp.
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Post by Ward on Nov 4, 2023 6:22:28 GMT -6
The most beneficial thing for any 44 is a preamp with an extremely high input impedance. A variable input impedance would be the tits!!!
You can tune a 44! Literally change the tonal response dramatically
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Post by ironinthepath on Nov 4, 2023 7:55:52 GMT -6
I decided to stay away from the active version since I’ve already invested in nice pres (and cloud-lifters which I’d only use for pre having too low of impedance). I have been using this “high output” version with a Gordon Model 5 pre. It’s not my favorite pre for everything but definitely lets you hear the character of a mic with vivid clarity, has extremely high input impedance as well: pairs perfectly with ribbons to my ears.
But I’m still wondering about the high output vs regular versions of R44, agreeing that the cosmetic stuff not important (C vs CE, etc.)
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Post by ab101 on Nov 4, 2023 9:38:59 GMT -6
I decided to stay away from the active version since I’ve already invested in nice pres (and cloud-lifters which I’d only use for pre having too low of impedance). I have been using this “high output” version with a Gordon Model 5 pre. It’s not my favorite pre for everything but definitely lets you hear the character of a mic with vivid clarity, has extremely high input impedance as well: pairs perfectly with ribbons to my ears. But I’m still wondering about the high output vs regular versions of R44, agreeing that the cosmetic stuff not important (C vs CE, etc.) You may want to give a call or email to the people at AEA about this. |
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Post by ironinthepath on Nov 4, 2023 9:45:49 GMT -6
I used the “contact” form on the AEA website maybe a week or two back: no answer unfortunately
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Post by chessparov on Nov 4, 2023 16:31:15 GMT -6
Give them a call. Ward mentioned Wes retired... But I wonder if he might pick up a call now and then? Be prepared to chat a while, if he does. (You'll learn a ton) Great guy!  Chris |
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Post by ab101 on Nov 4, 2023 18:02:25 GMT -6
One time I called Wes and he answered the call while he was in a riverboat on the Danube River! (True story.)
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Post by Ward on Nov 4, 2023 18:14:43 GMT -6
One time I called Wes and he answered the call while he was in a riverboat on the Danube River! (True story.) Ha!! I called AEA about 15 years ago, for the first time and Wes answered the phone. Had a great chat! |
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kbb
Junior Member
Posts: 81
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Post by kbb on Nov 5, 2023 21:23:53 GMT -6
I had to call the folks at AEA a couple of months ago, and they were stellar.
RE: high/low output, I'm not sure if the same argument applies, but there are some that prefer the passive R88 to the newer active version. IIRC, they claimed that the highs were a touch more detailed.
I can't back it up technically, but I think I've preferred my low output mics in general...they've just seemed more dynamic...more headroom maybe. I'm basing that on having both of the R88 versions (active and passive) for awhile, and the Josephson E22s (pretty low output) and now the R44ce.
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Post by Vincent R. on Nov 5, 2023 22:10:49 GMT -6
Wes had one of my mics for repair and personally called me to let me know they wouldn’t be able to work on it. It was really classy for him to call himself, and we had a nice convo.
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