[LAU] Cheap ribbon mics

[Ralf Mardorf]

On Fri, 2013-01-25 at 18:20 -0800, Len Ovens wrote:
> On Fri, January 25, 2013 5:56 pm, Bob van der Poel wrote:
> > Anyone used one of cheap ribbon mics I see on feabay for well under
> > $100? Yeah, probably get what you pay for ... but I don't have 2 to 4
> > grand just to play with one. I'm doing some in-home recording of a
> > tenor sax and I've heard that ribbons are really good for this.
> > Comments appreciated.
> 
> There are lots of different ribbon mics around. Some of them are not
> really ribbon mics in the classical sense. I don't think a Mylar skin with
> a ribbon printed on it will sound the same as the old ribbon mics. (they
> may sound good, but not the same)
> 
> If you are willing to do some of the work yourself try:
> 
> http://www.diyaudiocomponents.com/
> 
> Aside from complete mics at 300 euros, he also sells the elements for
> about 50 euros. Add a transformer (he has links) a case and a connector.
> 
> http://www.diyrecordingequipment.com/directory/
> 
> Has some good links to sites that have good ideas about making mic cases.
> I used an old power supply capacitor can, but copper pipe (or brass) works
> well too (see your local plumbing dept).
> 
> One thing to remember about ribbons is that they are more sensitive to the
> preamp impedance. So just buying a "cheap" mic may not do all you want.
> 
> Still one step at a time.

Only DIY if you have experiences with building good audio equipment.
Prefer large membranes or capacitors.
FWIW good large membranes are build by Haun, they are e.g. used for
Brauner microphones, but I suspect a large membrane only already does
cost more than 100,- if you only buy one and be aware that microphone
companies select parts like membranes, since not all do sound good, at
least not all dual sided do sound equal on front and backside. You have
to pay several to get one that is good.
All the microphone circuit diagram do look similar, it's the quality of
transformers, membranes, tubes or transistors that make a difference.
You don't need special capacitors and cables, such as Klaus Heine build
into microphones, I compared a good mic with averaged cables and
capacitors and with Klaus Heine voodoo. At best Heine crap does sound
equal, but it also can sound less good.
However, DIY assembly kits for 50,-$/€ is asking for trouble.

You may subscribe to the 64 Studio mailing list, IIRC Quentin Harley is
experienced in building microphones at home and perhaps he could give
you some tips, where to get good membranes and things like that, without
doing what companies do. Again, companies select the parts and they use
the less good parts for cheaper microphones and only the best for the
expensive ones.

2 Cents,
Ralf