Very high quality mic. I'm using it mainly as a stereo room mic. Sounds so big and velvety. Easy to manage. Replaced the Townsend L22 as my stereo room mic. Townsend was great, but the R88 is next level. Also sound killer on my upright piano. Warms it like Danny Lanois was in the room.

The AEA R88 MkII is a game changer. Coupled with the AEA RPQ preamp, the mic was up, running, and recording amazing vocals and acoustic guitar in just a few minutes. Can't wait to use it on piano, other instruments and bands with one mic.

This is undoubtedly my desert island mic. It's as close as it gets to human ears in my opinion - it sounds like being there! Very natural sounding across the frequency spectrum with a smooth high end that makes it especially useful on drum overheads and rooms. Definitely needs a good bit of gain, but if that's an issue, they've got an active version. This is seriously one of the best investments you can make as far as microphones go! My studio shut down during the pandemic and I had to sell off some gear, R88 included. But, as soon as I was able to I went out and picked up another - it's too good to not have around!

The AEA R88 ribbon microphone is an absolute gem in the world of audio capture. Its unparalleled craftsmanship delivers a rich, warm sound that truly elevates any recording experience. Regardless of the subject, the R88's dual ribbon design provides stunning detail and depth, making every nuance come alive. If you're seeking professional-grade audio quality with a vintage touch, the AEA R88 is a must-have addition to your arsenal.

I am thoroughly pleased with my R88. I'd purchased an AEA TRP2 preamp earlier which worked well with my BeyerDynamic M-160 and M-130 ribbon mics but still felt there was room for improvement in the sound I was getting versus the sound I was seeking. After using the M-130 with a Neumann TLM 49 in a mid-side arrangement, I was skeptical as to how much more I could really improve but decided to give the R88 a try on the recommendation of David Mikautadze. Wow! I did not expect to be impressed with the stereo image of the R88 after recording M/S but it was truly revealing. Add that to the effortless clarity of the R88 and I am now genuinely an AEA guy!

And it is so liberating! We can simply place the mic in the middle of the room and make music. As the manual states, "As a far-field stereo ribbon microphone, the R88 captures balanced sound from long distances. From 16 inches to 20 feet, the mic retains its full spectrum and incredible low end." It's true! So, rather than accommodating the mic, it accommodates us. Truly, could not be more pleased.

GREAT stuff!

Mostly been using the R88 as overheads and room mics for drums and I also can't wait to try it on a few different places such as acoustic guitars, vocals.

Paired with the RPQ2 it really shines, however I also used them a couple of times with Soyuz Launcher and Cloud lifters, ultimately they are always hooked to the RPQ2, just because.

Pristine audio quality, lots of low end, clarity, it's the whole deal.

Bought to mainly record solo acoustic guitar. Sounds absolutely amazing, definitely the best sound on an acoustic I've ever gotten and I've used many higher end mics. Using a DAV BG1 pre and I didn't need to use a cloudlifter or anything else to get enough gain. Excited to try it on other sources!

This is an absolutely stunning stereo microphone. The best word that I can describe it with is "truthful." If you capture your source in a good room, the playback will sound like you are there in the room. Clarity is breathtaking. The only drawback is that you will hear all of the deficiencies of your room. I am now working on making some tweaks to my recording space! If you have a good room and are interested in doing "one mic" recordings, or capturing the sound of your space, this is the microphone for you. Also be sure you have a 2 channel mic pre with enough gain to bring out the best in this mic (AEA TRP or RPQ would be great choices). This beauty is worth every penny, and then some.

Check the linked video for an in-depth dive into the AEA company and the R88. The mic is HUGE, but it also sounds huge. Be it over piano, drums, in front of an acoustic guitar... It's got you covered. It is a PASSIVE ribbon mic, which require 2 things: a fair amount of good clean gain, and HIGH impedance. Without either one of those two things, you're not going to get everything out of this mic. The RPQ/TRP pre's by AEA are a perfect compliment to this mic and will provide not only the gain but the impedance as well. If you dont want to have to deal with getting higher gain/impedance pres, go with the active version of this mic (probably cost you less in the long run). You can run the active version with any run of the mill pre without issue. Placement of this mic is simple. Follow the markings on the body for Blumlein or M/S. The only draw back is the rather short breakout cable that comes with the mic. I usually find myself having to connect another XLR to make it to my wall box. Other than that... this mic is a beast for anything stereo.

I think it is impossible to make this microphone sound bad. It is truly remarkable. On any source it seems, you can just adjust the placement and distance to taste. Drums and piano are especially brought to life.

I originally bought this as a backup for my aging stereo pair of Schoeps cmc65 which I sent in for servicing. I record mostly classical music, orchestras and chamber music. But I think, after just a few uses, this might just turn into my main stereo mic

It's a different sound from the schoeps for sure. And I'm still trying to learn how to maximize its sound potential. But the even after just a few concerts and sessions it's clear that the width depth and accuracy of the stereo imaging is exceptional. I'm not that good at positioning my stereo pair of schoeps and sometimes the stereo image is a little funky due to user error. But since the r88 is locked into blumlein the imagining is great every time.

The warmth of the room sound….incredible.

One issue that I have with the mic…and AEA mentions it in the user manual …. "Ribbon microphones are fundamentally prone to picking up strong external magnetic fields caused by light dimmers or nearby power transformers". I have encountered this problem im certain situations. I record a lot in a classroom of the school where I teach and there are lights dimmers and power transformers everywhere…it creates a hum in that room. There are suggestions in the manual on how to minimize or eliminate the hum in the manual. Hav not had enough time to tinker around with their suggestions. It is easily removed using isotope Rx. Its about the same volume as the ac noise which I run RX to remove sessions in that room anyway. I used the mic in two different concert halls and it was not an issue. I think learning to deal with this is just part of the learning curve of using old school ribbons like this.

I'm really happy with this mic…for sure will be a secrect weapon in my mic locker

Wow, this is one of those mics that simply make you have to listen! The fullness, clarity, and the huge sound is incredible. Yeah, you will have to adapt if you don't use ribbons in your studio! Its not the everyday sound. Thanks Chris G. For the great price.

I've been recording since I was 10, I've had a pro studio since I was 16, and I've worked in Blackbird with world class engineers. This mic has always been the choice for Overheads. Just take it and center it over the snare, sounds absolutely perfect every time! Just make sure you have a good room for you to record in!

Please be aware that this mic is not for every application. It is true it's a class mic and well constructed BUT, if you are looking for a clear sound with a nice top end, this is not a mic for you. I did not like it on vocals or acoustic guitars, for which I've purchased it for, with the idea of getting a transparent stereo sound. This mic is meant to record instruments with hard transients like an electric guitar amp, brasses or drums, so before following the hype, think twice for what application you are getting this mic for. In my case I'll go the extra mile and purchase a Neumann U87.

Worth all of they hype it gets. Absolutely stunning stereo image. I put it above my kit first and my jaw dropped at playback, it sounded exactly like it does when I'm sitting at the kit! I didn't move it once, it was perfect on the first placement. Used it on my 12 string acoustic for the second instrument and again, just amazing. I ended up panning both channels to one side instead of a stereo spread, no phasing whatsoever. Just a beautiful rich sounding acoustic. In my opinion it's not too dark at all. Easily my desert island mic. This is my first review of gear at sweetwater ever, it is just that good!

I use the R88 almost exclusively for live choral recording, and in addition to the remarkable sound, it simplifies setup finding the sweet spot acoustically
And gives me more options for a given room, usually a sanctuary! Its beautifully balanced sound reduces any post production to zero, giving me stunning sound with a lot less work!! My all time favorite mic!!

I've never been great at stereo recording...I have limited mic choices at home for that sort of application, I've always had weird phasing issues, and I've had decent results manipulating mono sources into stereo with plugin effects. So I sought a mic that would make true stereo recording a bit easier, with the intention of using it for ambient guitar and synth and piano. Turns out it's just fantastic, and an awesome buy. It works great on everything I've thrown at it, and it's a joy to set up. It captures tone with, I'd say, a surprisingly even response, unlike a lot of ribbons that can be low-mid heavy and ultimately beg a healthy dose of EQ. In fact, I've never used a ribbon with such an even response like this...I'd imagine that's really why those amazing "One Mic" videos you can find online make use of the R88. I'm so proud to have this. Highly recommended.

I have a decent mic collection, and a pretty good sounding room for my project studio (18' x 24' x 10'). This mic has become the cream of the crop, and considering the quality and usability, for now I'm comfortable proclaiming that this is the best mic I've ever purchased. Is it for every source? No, but this mic is so good I wouldn't mind trying it on every source. Drum overheads? YES... Stereo mic'ing situations? YES... Acoustic instruments in mono / mid-side? YES... Room mic? YES... I seriously doubt there is anything that would NOT sound good coming thru this mic. I also have the R84 and R92, primarily running them thru an AEA TRP Ribbon Pre, which also sounds amazing with dynamic mics. Seriously, why would you not want this mic?

This mic came vigorously recommended by people I deeply respect and it has not disappointed.

Beyond the wide, perfectly in phase image, the mic is just magically clear st all frequencies

I"ve already recorded acoustic guitar, banjo, accordion and piano with it and they all sounded incredible!

I use this R88 often, and on so many different sources! It's great on piano. It's a lovely center mic for a brass quintet. It's fabulous for strings, too - especially low strings. I use it with the TRP (going into a Metric Halo UPLN-8) and find it to be remarkably quiet and detailed. And of course that ribbony smoothness is abundant. For the price, this is an amazing, beautifully built, and impressive piece of gear that I always enjoy using.

I purchased an R88 after hearing another engineer's recording of a brass ensemble, which is what my use of this mic primarily serves. Nothing sounds better than ribbon mics for brass, and this fabulous sounding mic is no exception. I love that I can arrive at a concert, throw it up on a stand at the appropriate distance, and get a totally in-phase and beautifully imaged recording. It is big, but I think the sound is worth it. I paired it with a TRP preamp from AEA, and the sound never disappoints. I also used it for classical grand piano, string ensemble, concert band, full symphony orchestra, and choral ensembles. It is a fantastic investment, and one that goes with me anywhere I make music.

I love this microphone. I use it recording a new music ensemble (contemporary classical music), who use the classic "Pierrot plus percussion" lineup. What that means is you have everything - violin, cello, piano, flute, clarinet, and loads of percussion. Plus, often live electronics. The greatest thing about this mic is it captures the sound stage and spacing as the ensemble intends. They place great care in their spacing and arrangement on stage, to give a live audience the best listening experience, and this mic captures it. There's no need for close spot mics and meticulous panning during mixing and mastering. This single, stereo mic takes care of all of that. I love the depth and natural sound the AEA R88 provides for a chamber ensemble. You cannot go wrong with this for live recording. Pairs great with the AEA RPQ500 as well. Highly recommended.

The R88 is my go to room mic for drums, percussion, and guitars. The drum sound it captures is massive. I"ve also used it for drum overheads, piano, acoustic guitar, and vocals with great results. Definitely one of my favorite microphones.

The huge plus with this mic is....well there's a few:)

1. INSTANT stereo! No phase issues. No having to couple together mics and making sure you did it right or recording a whole take before realizing they were out of phase or one was turned backwards. I love to buy equipment which saves me time meddling with my equipment so that I can spend more time recording.

2. Quality sound! The AEA website says this was designed to retain clarity of both high and low frequency sounds form a distance. This is absolutely true. This mic delivers on that promise. It also does so with low noise as long as you're using appropriate equipment (good preamp like the AEA RPQ500 with clean gain, AC/DC powered interface instead of USB powered interface). This is like a point-and-shoot HD SLR camera for sound:) It literally sounds like you're there, not listening to a recording.

3. True reverb! This is a great room mic! If you are recording in a room without good natural reverb, this mic can sometimes add a sense of space and depth even better than what you really have. If you're in an amazing room with tasty natural reverb, you can capture it into your recording by placing this mic in a prime location, wherever your ears like the sound of things. This way you're not relying on fake reverb plugins; you're capturing the beauty of real sound waves. Nothing sounds more natural than the real deal. And it's no risk - if you don't like the end result, just don't mix this room mic in with the final track (but you likely will).

4. Lastly, IT's A RIBBON MIC FORM AEA!! They all just sound so smooth and real, as compared to harsh, sometimes sibilant condensers. Not enough bass? Choose a ribbon. Sound distorting? Choose a ribbon. The highs are to harsh and shrill? Choose a ribbon. Sounds fake? Choose a ribbon.

5. Hand made in Pasadena, CA! I know many don't care about this as much anymore, but I think there's something beautiful about buying from our American friends.

6. Support AEA - their customer service is incredible, the old-fashioned way when a very kind human answers your phone call in-person and is happy to answer any questions you have. This alone is a good reason to buy from them over competitors. They have a great demo program too, so you can try some of their products to see if you want to buy. They work hard to please and satisfy their customers, and they want you to be able to enjoy music with their products.

This mic is incredible. I mainly use it as a drum overhead where it has a punch and smoothness that I could not get from condensers. My cymbals sit perfectly in the mix, and I never worry about harshness. It also has replaced reverb in a lot of my mixes. Use this as a room mic when you are recording acoustic guitar or even vocals. Then blend it in to taste with your main mic and voila! Instant space! I can't say enough good things about AEA as a company either. I recently had a problem with my mic, and they took very good care of me. You won't regret owning this thing.

Amazing stereo imaging, incredible detail, super easy to use. Best room microphone I"ve ever heard. Definetly needs a quiet, clean pre. I use the Aea TRP, almost exclusively with this mic. This mic allows you to dial in how ever much natural ambiance you like by placement and distance. I definetly recommend the package with the boom stand, as it is heavy and is an amazing overhead mic for drums and vibraphone etc. this mic does pic up very quiet background noise like heaters turning on and off in other rooms when used on quiet sources like finger picked guitars

The R88 Mk2 is the best violin recording mic I've ever played through bar none (and I've tried many). The warmth and the stereo field is nothing short of amazingly gorgeous. Best purchase of the year for me.

Why didn't I get this sooner?! I love this mic!

I thought I knew how this microphone was going to complement my mic locker. Figured it would be brought out on special occasions, because how often do I really want to mic up most sources in stereo? Boy, was I wrong. Safe to say this mic is the closest thing I've heard to recording any source perfectly. To illustrate, I just finished two days recording a film score project. The only mics I used for piano, organ, rhodes, percussion, bodhran, tubular bells, gong, thunder sheet were my R88 and my AEA A440. This went so well that I will be repeating this combo forever. As good recordings as I've ever done in my professional career of 30 years.

I love the way this mic helps a small, bright recital hall sound less... small and bright! It's great as a stereo blumlein pair with a 40-voice choir or tenor soloist with piano accompaniment. I've used just one output for a mono signal on sax and jazz vocals, and it's really warm and smooth. It reminds me of a warmer version of the old Sony C-38B, which was so wonderfully forgiving on vocals. At least the one I had was! I think anyone who is looking for something that won't exaggerate the high end on sources that may already be harsh or edgy ought to take a good look at this mic. Looking forward to using this on some brass very soon! My only complaint is that two screws on the main body of the mic were quite loose right out of the box, but this didn't seem to cause any problems.

I have been convinced for some time that the human ear can hear differences in sound that hardware cannot effectively measure. We then see words like butter, smooth, graceful and so on as people describe what they hear. Can we judge how "smooth" a mic is by looking at specs? I don't think so. In the end, we must rely foremost on our ears to judge what makes a great microphone.

Like most engineers, I have a number of different mics in my bag, for different applications. I find that recording pipe organs or acapella choirs in reverberant spaces can be extremely challenging. The sound field can be profoundly complex. I recently took delivery on an R88, and immediately used it on my next field recording assignment. I set it up along with a pair of DPA4006, as a backup or potentially as another source to mix together with the R88. When I put the recording through post, I chose to use nothing but the R88 for the final product.

I am very eager to use this mic again. I'm thrilled!

It looks impressive, too. It is not what I would call "heavy" but it's not a small mic and not weightless. I like the fact that the mounting is directly under the center of gravity, so I feel safe using in on very tall mic stands.

It can be used in M-S, too, which I use for certain applications.

Treat it with respect, and I am sure it will impress you.

Thanks to Bart Good for suggesting this mic!

Yes. Maybe add a kick mic for perfection, but the R88 is truly amazing at capturing an entire kit. You can solo the R88 in a mix and have a drum sound that can often make it right to the final mix. AEA's magic enhances cymbals, toms, etc. What the R44 can do for vocals, the R88 can do for drums & other room/overhead applications.

Wes and his crew have always done a wonderful job. This mic is what I've wanted from them for years.

I recently had a few days using one and it exceeded my high expectations. The Blumlein method for recording acoustic instruments is my preferred place to start especially for guitar, piano and background/choir vocals (given a good sounding room). The minimal phase problems and the honest room tone that this mic provides give a wonderful dimension to the recordings when using this mic.

Try using in MS mode if you wish to alter the stereo image after the fact. I have yet to do this but my experience with the R88 leaves me with no doubt that it will excel in a MS application due to the superior off axis response.

Enjoy! I know I will as soon as my wallet allow me to purchase one.

I spoke with Wes Dooley at AEA around Christmas time in 2012 about the R88 and how it might be the right mic for my business. I picked mine up in March 2013, SN 0266.

I've used it to record opera singers, a jazz trio, a string quartet, a violin duo, and a bunch of other musical groups all over NJ and, recently, in Alaska. The padded case it comes with protects it during the passage through airport security.

Artistically, the R88 is already producing the "wow factor" I was looking for, having that faithful-to-reality-yet-beautiful sound I'd always heard in my head but couldn't get without lots of effort from other mics. The reality of the sound stage is amazing. From a business standpoint, using the R88 also cuts huge amounts of time out of the mixing and mastering efforts as it already sounds so right from the start.

It looks big and heavy but, in fact, it's very light; it sets up very quickly. I patch mine directly into my Sound Devices 702 and the signal strength is excellent.

This mic will smooth out every harshness of acoustical instrument without losing detail. The stereo imaging is amazing. Highly recommended!
On Cello I prefer this over a Royer (if I compare ribbons)

I've used the R88 on: harp, acoustic guitar, percussion, drum overheads, drum room, choir and recently dropped it in the middle of a string quartet (cello, viola, 2 x violin). We close mic'd the string quartet with a: U57, C12, Sony C800G and R92. The mix engineer chose to use the R88... it absolutely blew us away. As the artist said after hearing it... that's pure butter!

smooth. great stereo sound.
i've been using it on piano.