Ribbon microphone storage.

[PRHunt]

I'm getting a pair of ribbon mics in the next few weeks.

It is generally held that it is best to store ribbons upright, in order to prevent the ribbon from stretching due to sag.

While the rationale seems sound, given the construction of ribbons, I was just wondering if this is in fact common practice?

Any thoughts?

Paul

 

[moresound]

It's what I do.
If they aren't used for a few months - I turn them over 180 - just to be on the safe side.

 

[witzendoz]

It is generally held that it is best to store ribbons upright, in order to prevent the ribbon from stretching due to sag.
Paul

I store them upright and in the storage box, by putting them in the box they are not subjected to noise when not in use, upright so the ribbon does not sag.

Alan

 

[kip4]

Thats what i heard and thats what i do with mine. Upright.
cant wait to hear some samples please paul. Please do a review too. Thanks

 

[PRHunt]

Cheers guys. Pretty much what I thought.

The mics are the DIY version of these: DIYAC RM-5 Ribbon Microphone which have been released for a limited time in kit form.

I'll need to build a storage housing, so it is just as easy build something vertical.

@kip4: will be happy to put something up - once I put the mics together (which might be a while because I have a back-log of projects )

Paul

 

[kip4]

thanks Paul
I feel like a kid in a sweet shop.

 

[moresound]

Cheers guys. Pretty much what I thought.

The mics are the DIY version of these: DIYAC RM-5 Ribbon Microphone which have been released for a limited time in kit form.

I'll need to build a storage housing, so it is just as easy build something vertical.

@kip4: will be happy to put something up - once I put the mics together (which might be a while because I have a back-log of projects )

Paul

That's a mighty handsome looking microphone Paul.

 

[xaudia]

Hi!

Whilst it is good practice to store and use upright, I would say don't worry about it too much.
You are far more likely to stretch or blow the ribbons from a blast of air, dropping one, drumstick, or slamming the box lid. Damp conditions can also cause oxidation of the ribbon and contacts, which is far more common than blow ribbons, but a lot less obvious.

The mass of a properly designed & fitted ribbon is so incredibly light that it won't stretch itself under its own weight.

Stewart

 

[Steenamaroo]

<phew> I can turn my flight cases back the other way now.......

And I'm not even being sarcastic!

 

[moresound]

 

[Steenamaroo]

Seriously man, I had two cases flat under the bed, but now they're sideways against the wall...

Stoopid ribbon mic! Totally rocked my world.

 

[moresound]

It's true what Xaudia said though - your more apt to destroy your ribbon microphone by letting the lid shut closed than the way it is stored.

 

[PRHunt]

That's a mighty handsome looking microphone Paul.

I am confident the mics will sound great as well!

The price per mic kit was €118 which included the motor, machined stainless steel housing, shock mount and shipping. For transformers, I bought Cinemags at about $AU137 for 2 transformers including shipping from the USA. All up, about $AU218 per microphone.

By comparison, to buy an RM-5 (as a normal retail product) with a shock mount would cost just under $AU400.

Paul