AEA N8 Nuvo

In the AEA tradition: the "room" approach inspired by the R88, in a mono format

The AEA N8 carries the sonic DNA that made the R88 successful by offering a mono version designed for capturing space and width. This is a particularly relevant choice if you want to build a matched stereo pair or complement your microphone collection with a ribbon capable of capturing a room "as the ear hears it," with a sense of depth and a natural signature.

For which uses and profiles?

The N8 is aimed at sound engineers, demanding home studio users, and recording studios looking for a high-end ribbon mic for overheads, room mic, acoustic ensembles, upright or grand piano, and bowed string recordings. Its figure-8 pattern also allows for creative placement techniques (side rejection, front/back capture) to control ambiance and perspective in the mix.

Features and key points for modern ribbon recording

Active ribbon: a ribbon easier to use daily

Thanks to its built-in preamplifier, the N8 offers smooth operation with many interfaces and preamps while retaining the character and finesse expected of a ribbon. 48V phantom power is required to operate the active electronics, a real advantage for obtaining a strong signal without excessively pushing the gain.

Figure-8 pattern: width, depth, and environment control

The figure-8 polar pattern is at the heart of the N8's identity: it captures both front and back while effectively rejecting the sides. The result is a rich spatial image, particularly effective over a drum kit, in the room background, or above a string section stand to capture the whole with coherence and naturalness.

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	Capsule	ribbon dynamic
Frequency response - end	20 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	studio microphone	Color	Black
Directivity	bidirectional

Type	active ribbon microphone	Output impedance	92 Ohms
Design	mono version of the AEA R88 with preamplifier	Power supply	48V phantom power required
Polar pattern	figure-eight	Included	microphone stand, protective cover and carrying case
Ribbon	folded aluminum, 1.8 micrometers thick, dimensions of 4.7 x 59.7 mm	Manufacturing	handmade in the USA
Frequency response	20 - 20000 Hz	Dimensions (H x diameter)	225 x 410 mm
Maximum sound pressure level	141 dB SPL (1 percent THD > 1 kHz)	Weight	335 g
Sensitivity	8.3 mV/Pa at 1 kHz