Nady RSM-2 operating instructions

RSM-2 Ribbon Studio Microphone

USER GUIDE

Congratulations on purchasing the Nady RSM-2 Ribbon Studio Microphone. This superior
neoclassic microphone is designed for use in contemporary, state-of-the-art studios, yet offers the
unique natural sound previously only available on such classic large ribbon mics as the legendary
RCA 44, which is still used to make great recordings today after almost 70 years. Perfect for
recording studio vocals, acoustic instruments, strings, horns, orchestras and choral groups,
ambient instrument audio, and many live sound applications. Powerful and versatile, and with the
unmatched natural sound of classis ribbon mics, the RSM-2 meets the stringent requirements of
even the most demanding digital recording and live broadcasting applications.

This manual covers the operation of the RSM-2 microphone and the available optional
accessories.
To take full advantage of the superb features of your microphone, and to enjoy long and trouble­free use, please read this user’s guide carefully. As ribbon microphones are, by their design, very
sensitive to damage from mishandling and use, it is very important to read and observe the
precautions below about proper use.

UNPACKING, INSPECTION, STORAGE AND TRANSPORT

Your RSM-2 microphone was carefully packed at the factory, and the shipping carton (and soft carrying case) was designed to protect
the unit during shipping. Please retain this container for subsequent transport and in the highly unlikely event that you ever need to
return your microphone for servicing. Please note: since the ribbon assembly of the RSM-2, as with all ribbon microphones, is ex­tremely fragile, you must verify immediately upon receipt of your microphone that it has not been damaged during shipment and is
operating correctly. The warranty on this microphone does not extend beyond an initial inspection, since these microphones can be so
easy damaged during handling and use. If the unit arrived damaged please return it immediately to where you bought it. Units that are
damaged in use can be returned to Nady Systems and the ribbon assembly replaced for a fixed charge (see Service section below).

STANDARD ITEMS SUPPLIED

• RSM-2 ribbon microphone with attached stand mount
and XLR cable

• Instruction manual

• Warranty card

• Soft, padded carrying case

FEATURES

• The unparalleled, uncompromised sound of a classic ribbon
(velocity) mic

• Low-tension 2-inch long, 2 micron thick aluminum ribbon design
with typical “large, mellow” ribbon audio reproduction with
smooth, natural extended low and high ends

• Fast accurate transient response, ultra-high 165 dB SPL
capability, unmatched transient response and overall stunning
realism

• Figure-8 audio directional (pickup) pattern for both front and rear
wide, extended sweet spots (as compared to large diaphragm
condenser mics); and increased off-axis high frequency
response on sides, with decreased high response above and
below on-axis (though lower audio levels)

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

• MPF-6 Pop Filter (highly recommended, as ribbon
microphones are very susceptible to damage from strong
air blasts, as with percussive sounds during recording)

• Individual recording volume control of separate sources, through
use of stereo mic setups wherein isolation is achieved by placing
the source so that it is in the principal axis of one mic and the
off-axis null of the other

• Manufactured with the finest materials with a machined housing
with advanced internal shock mount construction for the highest
structural integrity and rugged reliability

• Choice of gold or platinum-finish grill assemblies

• Integrated yoke mic stand mount and XLR cord included

• Soft padded carrying case supplied

WARNING / PRECAUTIONS

The active element of your microphone is a very thin corrugated
aluminum ribbon clamped under light tension and mounted
between the poles of a strong magnet. This design enables it to
produce warmest, most natural sound available from any type of
studio microphone. However, it also makes this the most sensitive
and fragile studio microphone available. All ribbon microphones
require special care or they will be seriously damaged. In order
to ensure long life for your RSM-2 please always follow these 4
precautions:

1. Always protect your RSM-2 from any hard knocks, such as
from dropping the mic, or not properly padding in shipment, as
such jolts can destroy the ribbon assembly. Always handle with
complete care.

2. Prevent any sudden or strong blasts of air movement from ever
reaching your microphone, as they can tear and destroy the
fragile ribbon. Never blow into your RSM-2! When using, always

USING THE OPTIONAL MPF-6 POP FILTER

utilize a pop filter, such as the optional Nady MPF-6, to prevent
any percussive sounds from damaging the ribbon. Such filters also

prevent damage from moisture from mouth spray.

3. Never intentionally or accidentally apply any phantom power
from your mixer or a phantom power supply to your RSM-2 as it
can burn up the ribbon. Please always check carefully before
connecting your ribbon mic that there is no phantom power being
provided to the RSM-2.

4. When not in use, always keep the microphone in the padded
soft case provided. Also, always store the mic in a vertical position
because, over time, the 2" long ribbons can sag, gradually
degrading performance if the mic is stored on its side.

Note: damaged ribbons are not covered by warranty and there will
be a charge to replace the element.

The optional MDF-6 pop filter should always also be used with
your RSM-2. This pop filter should be placed between the sound
source and the microphone to prevent percussive sound blasts
and air movement from damaging the very fragile ribbon

assembly of the RSM-2. It is also useful in keeping mouth spray
out of the microphone, which can also degrade or destroy the
delicate ribbon.

SERVICE

(U.S.) Should your Nady microphone require service, please contact the Nady Service Department via telephone at (510) 652- 2411 or
e-mail at [e-mail]. (INTERNATIONAL) For service, please contact the Nady distributor in your country through the dealer
from whom you purchased this product.

Date of purchase_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Dealer’s Name ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Street______________________________________________________________________________________________________

City ____________________________________ State _____________________ Zip _____________________________________

Do not attempt to service this unit yourself as it will void your warranty. Please note that due to the extremely delicate nature of ribbon
mics, which can easily be damaged by misuse and mishandling (as noted under Warning / Precautions section above), the ribbon
assembly of the RSM-2 is not covered under warranty. Check your unit carefully upon receipt and return to place of purchase
immediately if there are any problems with the mic. After that, the standard Nady warranty will only apply to defects in materials and
workmanship other than the ribbon assembly. It these are damaged, please contact the Nady Service Department for a quote for
replacement of the ribbon assembly.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Large Ribbon Geometry (LRG) ribbon (velocity) Micro­phone
Ribbon type & Dimensions: Pure aluminum, 2 microns thick,
50mm X 5mm (L X W)

Polar pattern: Figure 8
Sensitivity: -55dB(0dB=1V/Pa)
Frequency response: 30 to 18,000Hz (+/- 3dB)
Impedance: <= 200 Ohms
Recommended load impedance: 1000 Ohms

Max. SPL (1% THD @1000Hz): 165 dB
Equivalent noise level to IEC 268-4(A weighted): 18 dB
S/N ratio re 1Pa: 70 dB
Mic cable: 3-pin XLR standard cable (attached)
Size: Diameter: 2.7" (68.5mm), length 7.3" (185mm)
Net weight: 44 oz (1230g)

Specifications and design subject to change for improvement

purposes without prior notice.

03/14/04