NUVO N22
The NUVO N22 is a modern near-field and active ribbon mic with a rugged lightweight design, extended top-end clarity, and reduced proximity effect making it perfect for close miking of instruments.
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N22 Microphone Overview
Extended top end with a ribbon’s classic warmth
Near-field ribbon mic with reduced proximity effect
Balanced frequency response at 1 to 18 inches from the source
Compact, lightweight design with rugged durability
Active electronics and custom transformer optimized for all preamps
Made in the U.S.A.
The Big Ribbon Reimagined
The near-field N22 is a modern ribbon mic that challenges expectations of traditional ribbon technology and can reframe the way you record with ribbons.
It delivers clarity and balance in frequency response, even when positioned just inches from the source, and can stand alone in a mix without the need for the blending additional mic signals due to its extended top-end.
A New Approach
The N22 can be positioned inches away from an instrument and retain a balanced sound with extended top end while avoiding the room tone that can cause problems in smaller spaces or iso booths. This is what makes the N22 special.
It exhibits a high-frequency bump at 3kHz making it ideal for recording vocals, electric guitar, bass cabs, kick drum, acoustic guitar, and percussion. It is best to think of the N22’s placement in terms of inches instead of feet.
The N22 naturally reduces proximity effect while also avoiding the room tone that can cause problems in smaller spaces or iso booths. Naturally rolling off the low-end before it hits the ribbon creates a much different sound than using electronic equalization to roll off the low-end in post.
Hear the N22
Audio Examples & Techniques
Designed for Up-Close Use
The N22 was designed to be positioned between 1 and 16 inches from the sound source. It retains a balanced frequency response across the spectrum with limited proximity effect. In a traditional ribbon mic, the proximity effect can be so strong that it obscures the mid-range, which can be extremely difficult to correct.
Unlike traditional ribbon mics, think of the N22s placement in terms of inches instead of feet. Of course, near-field mics can be positioned at a distance, but they have a more balanced sound close to the sound source.
The N22 not only handles the SPL levels of a high-gain amplifier and kick drum with ease, but it also translates all the gritty details of an instrument that musicians seek.
The N22 In Action
Made for vocals and guitar
Watch the N22 in action on Mitski’s vocals and electric guitar in this AEA Session.
An Active Ribbon for a Modern Age
With active electronics and a custom transformer, the N22 provides 12db of extra output and more preamp flexibility than traditional passive ribbon mics.
A Rugged, Roadworthy Companion
With increased durability and a small profile, it’s no wonder that a wide range of performers use AEA’s NUVO series microphones on the road. The mics are totally rugged and hold up to daily wear and tear.
From outdoor gigs at music festivals to indoor theaters, NUVO mics are the perfect companion to bring the sound of studio recordings to the live stage. With the NUVO Windscreen, never worry about the ribbon – even at windy gigs.
Bands now using N8s and N22s on the road include Bonnie Raitt, Alicia Keys, Aerosmith, Grizzly Bear, Mitski, Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, Alabama Shakes, War On Drugs, Local Natives, The Head and The Heart, Sara Watkins, Kurt Vile, Deerhunter, Jamestown Revival, JOHNNYSWIM, Brandi Carlile, Autolux, Foxygen, Kruger Brothers, Cam, Pedro the Lion, The Districts, Valerie June, King Krule, The Head and The Heart, Ben Harper, Ought and more.
Artists
I love the AEA N22. We've used it on almost every electric guitar track I've recorded since getting that mic three years ago.
Recording Mag
This is easily the most forgiving and intimate ribbon mic I have used. Its sound is equal parts beautiful, natural and well balanced. In more good news for songwriters wanting "one great mic"...
Sound on Sound
Overall AEA have seemingly achieved exactly what they intended to, by producing a ribbon mic with a brighter, more modern sound than their classic models ... while the ribbon-meets-capacitor tonal character means the mic can be used in rather more areas than a conventional ribbon microphone can.
Electronic Musician
The N22 brought out a smooth, organic tone from every instrument I used it on—electric guitar amp, acoustic guitar, vocals, mandolin, marimba, and drums. With the protective screen built in, I didn’t have to worry about cheating it up to a vocalist or a loud amp.
Manual and Specifications
Parts and Accessories
AccessoriesRelated
- Tricks of the Trade
N22 vs N8: What’s the Difference?
- Tricks of the Trade
Near-Field vs. Far-Field Ribbon Mics: What’s The Difference
- Tricks of the Trade
Battle of Two Near-Fields: R92 vs N22 on Guitars Amps
- Tricks of the Trade
What is an Active Ribbon Microphone?
