Ribbon Microphone  The AEA A440 is based on the model R44CX Big Ribbon™ microphone, but uses a transformer with a higher turns ratio and adds an internal phantom powered JFET low noise buffer amplifier. These increase the output level by 20 dB and reduce the self-noise, making the A440 ideally suited for the most critical recording applications. 
 
The A440 shares many features and sonic qualities of its non-powered cousins, but has a character of its own. It is often described as being more “open and transparent” than any other ribbon microphone. With a high sensitivity of -33.5 dBV/Pascal and a low output impedance of 92 Ohms, it can be used where other ribbon mics cannot — anywhere that low-noise, high immunity to RF or EMI noise fields, and/or long cable runs are required. 
 
The A440 is one of the quietest mics around and is the quietest ribbon microphone. At 7 mA current 
draw, it has a 9 dBA noise floor and handles 136 db SPL. A custom 9 mA version has a 6 dbA noise 
floor and handles 132.5 db SPL. Such wide dynamic range is equal to the best studio condenser mics. 
 
Product Features/Specifications: 
Classic “Big Ribbon” microphone, phantom powered for robust output 
Manufactured in the USA, handcrafted to order 
JFET active electronics in the AEA TRP tradition 
Exceptionally low equivalent noise level 6dB(A) 
Authentic RCA New Old Stock ribbon material 
Investment cast bronze yoke and machined brass parts, no zinc 
Single diaphragm with well-controlled, native figure-8 polar pattern 
Consistent horizontal polar response, on and off axis 
90-degree null-plane helps reject difficult acoustics 
High SPL capability: 132dB (1% third harmonic >1kHz) 
Computer-matched to production reference standards 
 Technical Specifications:  
Link  
http://recordinghacks.com/pdf/aea/R44-A440_Manual_Dec2009.pdf  
Operating Principle: Velocity microphone 
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz 
Maximum SPL: 165 + dB SPL above 1 kHz for 1% third harmonic 
Output Sensitivity: 2.25 mV / Pa into unloaded circuit 
Output Impedance: 270 Ω broadband 
Recommended Load: 1.2 kΩ or greater 
Powering: Not required or recommended 
Polarity: Pin 2 high for positive pressure on the front of the microphone. 
Connector: XLR-3M wired to a 3 meter captive cable 
Off Axis Response: 
Polar Pattern: Native bi-directional pattern 
Horizontal: Level changes with angle, frequency response is consistent, –90 dB null at 90° / 270° 
Vertical: Level changes with angle, reduced HF response above and below 0° / 180° axis, null at 90° / 270° 
Transducer element 
Ribbon Thickness: 1.8 µ (0.0000018 m) of pure aluminum 
Ribbon Width: 4.7 mm 
Ribbon Length: 59.7 mm 
Accessories: 
Included: Custom storage / shipping case, stand adapter, manual 
Optional: Any length cable, inquire for price and delivery. 
Custom transformer case laser engraved with your art or logo