Can it be this was not covered in the micing thread? Well, until the better qualified authorities arrive, here's the knownuttin' answer. Take with great heaping helpings of salt.
According to Modern Recording Techniques:
"A ribbon is a variety of dynamic, that is, it operates on the electromagnetic principle of induction. Instead of the typical Mylar it uses a diaphram of extremely thin (2 micrometers) corrugated aluminum suspended within a strong field of magnetic flux. As sound pressure acts upon the diaphram, the ribbon cuts accross the magnetic lines of flux, inducing current in the ribbon proportional to the acoustic waveform."
Now some generalizations. Many are natural figure 8 patterns.
My Beyer M260 is not. All are fragile in the sense that a gust of wind entering the capsule can destroy them. However, the modern designs are a bit more rugged. They are prized for their unique tone, especially on strings, pianos, guitars and many voices, particularly female. The original RCA's are some of the most prized of all. Given their fragility, not many of the vintage mics have survived into this era without needing repair or modification. And yes, many pro studios have and use them. HTH.
-kent
