What is a Ribbon Mic?

Ribbon Mics are a special breed of microphone. If you've grown up with the typical condenser microphones and venerable options like the Shure 57, this is a different beast altogether. This is not your Roger Daltry swinging, The Replacements knocking over mic-stand Russian Tank. It's necessary to handle with care, something ALL Ribbon Microphones need. The ribbon within is a sensitive animal.

Swart R2- Handling Instructions

Swart R2 Microphones are less suitable for instruments that produce air-pressure, i.e. close micing of a kick drum or blowing directly into the grill. A Pop-Filter is highly recommended, especially for vocals. Do not use with phantom power. Use felt bag for storage and moving the Microphone.

How to mic a guitar cabinet or combo

The closer your microphone to the source the more low end frequencies you will get due to the proximity effect. Before placing the R2 on a guitar cabinet have someone play the guitar through the amp, while they are playing use your hand in front of the speaker to feel the air pressure caused by the speaker. Move your hand away from the speaker cabinet until you do not feel the air pressure change. This is a good starting point to place your Swart r2 ribbon mic typically 8” to 12” away from the front of the speaker. This distance may be greater with a higher wattage amp or it can be less if the amp is at low volume level.

How to Mic vocals

Always use a pop filter when singing into R2 to keep any puffs of air off the ribbon element. The closer you are to the ribbon mic the more low end you will get. so for a more ballanced sound move back from the R2 when singing.

Ribbon Mic Care

Do not use in windy environments.
When moving the the R2 use the included felt bag or cover the front and back of the mic to keep wind pressure off the ribbon element.

"This Ribbon mic seems to capture more sonic information than a standard dynamic mic in a far more natural sounding way. It's really been a revelation to me. Our proprietary custom hand wound Toroidal Core transformer was designed for its efficiency and hum canceling ability. When combined with our custom ribbon, which is cut, crimped, and tuned in the Swart Shop, the result is something truly special... it's my go-to amp mic now. Just really a special piece."

   - Michael Swart