MXL R77

A Modern Ribbon Inspired by Classic Studio Legends

The t.bone RB 500 follows the tradition of ribbon microphones that have shaped studio sound: natural reproduction, a smoother top end than many condensers, and a flattering sense of depth on acoustic sources. With its chrome and gold finish and robust design, it clearly targets "character" recordings-those where texture, warmth, and an easy-to-work-with stereo image in the mix are sought.

Intended Uses for the t.bone RB 500

Thanks to its figure-8 pattern, the RB 500 is an excellent choice for room ambiance, electric guitars (complementing a dynamic mic), brass instruments, and certain vocals where sibilance needs taming and a "velvety" sound is desired. It is also a great ally for two-person face-to-face setups (podcasts, interviews, acoustic duos), as the capsule captures front and back symmetrically.

Like many ribbon mics, its moderate sensitivity benefits from a clean preamp with plenty of gain: in a home studio, a quiet preamp (or a suitable inline booster) helps preserve detail without raising noise floor. In return, the RB 500 rewards with a very pleasant tonal character that is often easier to place in a dense mix than overly bright recordings.

Figure-8 Polar Pattern: Creativity, Isolation, and Stereo Techniques

Use Null Points to Better Separate Sources

The figure-8 pattern has very pronounced side rejection zones: by properly orienting the microphone, you can reduce unwanted sources (reflections, other instruments, ventilation noise) while maintaining a spacious main capture. This is especially useful in live recording, compact booths, or to control bleed.

Mid-Side and Wider Ambient Recordings

Paired with a cardioid microphone, the RB 500 becomes an excellent component of a Mid-Side setup: an adjustable stereo image in the mix with a very natural sense of space. In drum or amp rooms, the figure-8 often adds extra depth thanks to its rear capture, provided the acoustics are well managed (or absorptive panels are used where needed).

Ribbon Sound: Smooth Highs, Present Mids

With a frequency response of 20 to 18,000 Hz, the RB 500 emphasizes a "studio" listening experience: a less aggressive top end, pleasant dynamics, and expressive mids. On electric guitar, it complements a dynamic mic placed near the cone very well: blend both to keep attack while adding density. On brass, it helps tame harshness without losing body. On vocals, it can add an intimate texture, especially when managing the proximity effect typical of figure-8 patterns.

Technical specifications

Frequency response - start	20 Hz	Capsule	ribbon dynamic
Frequency response - end	18 kHz	Connection	XLR
Category	studio microphone	Color	Grey
Directivity	bidirectional

Type	Ribbon Microphone	Minimum Load Impedance	greater than 1500 Ohm
Polar Pattern	Figure-8	Connector	3-pin XLR
Aluminum Ribbon	47 mm length, 1.8 micron thickness	Dimensions	65 x 180 mm
Frequency Response	20 - 18,000 Hz	Weight	860 g
Max SPL	135 dB	Finish	Chrome/Gold
Sensitivity	1.7 mV/Pa	Includes	Fork-style mount, microfiber cloth, and case
Output Impedance	270 Ohm