The active NUVO N8 is a modern ribbon mic that records the live, natural sound of instruments within a space as it would sound in-person, with all subtlety and nuance present.
HEARS LIKE YOUR EARS
The N8 captures a space as it sounds live and in person, with all the present subtlety and nuance. Its expansive frequency response and balanced low end make it superbly effective when capturing the full breadth of sound from the back of a room, above a drum set, or overhead a string section.
It boasts the widest frequency range of any mic in the AEA lineup and effortlessly manages more complex source audio like drums, strings, piano, and other instruments that produce intricate transients, harsh highs, and bellowing lows. The full potential of the N8 is perhaps best realized when configured in a stereo array, as it draws on the same successful sonic concepts as the AEA R88.
THE FAR-FIELD RIBBON
The N8 is a far-field ribbon mic, meaning it is designed to be positioned at an ideal distance of 12 inches or farther from the source of sound. This far-field design allows for a wide range of options when positioning the N8 to best capture an instrument within the context of a room.
From as far away as 20 feet away, the N8 retains the low end frequencies of the sources it captures, and its open, natural tonality makes it perfect to record an entire orchestras or the full low end of a drum kit from overhead. The proximity effect of the N8 is present when recording a source from closer than 12 inches, so this feature can be used to accentuate the low-end of a vocal or string instrument. Potential damage from loud sources is of no concern, even at such a short distance, as the N8 can handle 141+dB SPL at 1 kHz.
If less proximity effect is desired when recording at close range, the near-field AEA N22 is an effective ribbon mic to complement the N8's far-field performance.
A MONO VERSION OF THE AEA R88
The N8 is the mono version of the AEA R88 stereo microphone with active electronics.
Engineers in both the studio and on the scoring stage who use the R88 desired a mono version that was more discreet, lightweight and easier to position. The N8 and R88 share the same minimalist design philosophy and honest sound. A pair of N8s with the NUVO stereo kit can emulate the R88, but a special preamp is not needed since the N8 uses active circuitry.
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.
On the Road with the N8
Bands now using N8s and N22s on the road include Bonnie Raitt, Alicia Keys, Aerosmith, 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, Mitski, King Krule, The Head and The Heart, Ought and more.
Features
- Rich low-end, warm detailed mid-range and a smooth top-end
- Different tonality on front and back sides, giving users a sonic choice
- Has a similar character to the classic R84 with less proximity effect
- Near-field ribbon mic with reduced proximity effect
- Made in the U.S.A.
Specifications
Operating Principle: Pressure gradient microphone
Directional Pattern: Bidirectional (Figure-of-8)
Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL: 165+ dBSPL (1% third harmonic > 1 kHz)
Output Sensitivity: 1.8 mV/Pa (-55 dBV) into unloaded circuit
Output Impedance: 270 nominal
Recommended Load Impedance: 1.2 k or greater
Powering: Not required or recommended
Polarity: Pin 2 high for positive pressure on front of microphone.
Connector: XLR-3M wired to a 3 m captive cable
Off Axis Response:
Polar Pattern: Native bi-directional pattern
Horizontal: Level changes with angle, frequency response is consistent, -35 dB null at 90° / 270°
Vertical: Level changes with angle, reduced HF response above and below 0° / 180° axis, -35 dB null at 90° / 270°
Transducer element:
Ribbon Thickness: 1.8 (0.0000018 m) of pure aluminum
Ribbon Width: 0.185" (4.7 mm)
Ribbon Length: 2.35" (59.7 mm)
Accessories:
Included: Custom storage / shipping case, manual
Optional: Any length cable, inquire for price and delivery.
Limited Warranty: One year parts and labor, shipping not included. Three year extended warranty if the product is registered.
Weight with Cable: 2 lbs (0.9 kg)
Weight with case: 7.5" (19.1 cm)
Height: 7.5" (19.1 cm)
Width: 2.9" (7.4 cm)
Depth: 2.5" (6.4 cm)