Beschreibung
Ribbon mics, more so than condenser or dynamic mics, need to be properly impedance matched to the mic pre-amplifier. Ribbon mics use transformers and every ribbon mic’s output impedance is different, ranging anywhere from 50 to over 600 Ohms. The problem is that most mic pre-amplifiers come with a transformer set to one specific input impedance. If the input impedance of the mic pre is dramatically less than the output impedance of the ribbon mic, this can result in what is referred to as „undershoot“ and the mic will sound dull. That is because the mic pre is unable to properly manage the high end frequencies picked up by the mic and the result is a 3-6 dB attenuation of signal in the frequencies over 10 kHz. If the input impedance of the mic pre is dramatically more than the output impedance of the ribbon mic, this can result in „overshoot“ and the mic will sound harsh or brittle as the high end frequencies are over-exaggerated.
