AEA NUVO N28 Compact Active Stereo Ribbon Microphone
Best stereo recording solution for discerning audio professionals.
This compact active stereo ribbon microphone captures natural stereo sound with its fixed Blumlein configuration. It operates on 48V phantom power, offering excellent noise rejection and fast transient response. Its discreet design and versatility make it suitable for various recording and live sound applications, delivering classic ribbon warmth with modern performance and durability. Ideal for drum overheads, room ambiance, or close-miked stringed instruments, it provides a phase-coherent, accurate response.
$2499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
274
/ 3367
#274 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+392%
Above average
Weight
0.9
/ lb
Who it's for
- Audio engineers and musicians seeking rich, immersive soundscapes.
- Recording artists and producers valuing plug-and-play convenience.
- Studio owners and live sound engineers with limited space.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home studio owners or emerging artists.
- Mobile recording engineers or those new to ribbon microphone care.
- Producers needing a very bright, aggressive, or highly detailed top-end.
Performance breakdown
Stereo Imaging
Fixed Blumlein configuration delivers exceptionally natural and phase-coherent stereo soundscapes.
Transient Response
Active electronics ensure fast, precise capture of complex percussive and string attacks.
Build Quality
Robust US-made construction designed to withstand rigorous studio and stage environments.
Noise Rejection
Active circuitry effectively eliminates interference during long cable runs.
Form Factor
Discreet, compact design allows for easy placement in tight recording spaces.
Versatility
Adapts seamlessly from delicate string instruments to demanding drum overhead applications.
Key Specs
Weight
0.9 lb
Dimensions
10.5 in Length, 1.6 in Diameter
Transducer Type
Ribbon
Polar Pattern
Bidirectional
Impedance
92 ohms
Frequency Range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity
-44.3 dBV/Pa
Max. SPL
135 dB @1 kHz
Know before you buy
The fixed Blumlein configuration uses two figure-eight ribbons angled at 90 degrees to capture a highly accurate, phase-coherent stereo image. It is ideal for recording sources where you want to capture the natural depth and spatial characteristics of a room or ensemble.
Yes, the N28 is an active ribbon microphone and requires 48V phantom power to operate its internal electronics. This active circuitry ensures a consistent signal level and allows for the use of longer cable runs without signal degradation or noise interference.
The N28 is capable of handling a maximum SPL of 135 dB, making it well-suited for drum overheads and other high-volume applications. Its fast transient response ensures that sharp attacks are captured accurately while maintaining the smooth, warm character typical of ribbon microphones.
Yes, its compact, discreet design and robust US-made construction make it a practical choice for stage applications. Because it is an active microphone, it is less sensitive to the impedance loading issues that can sometimes affect passive ribbons in live environments.
Because the N28 is an active microphone with a high output level, it does not require a specialized high-gain preamp like many passive ribbons. It will perform reliably with standard professional-grade preamps found on most modern audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
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