Nady RSM-3 operating instructions
RSM-3 Ribbon Studio Microphone
USER GUIDE
Congratulations on purchasing the Nady RSM-3 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-3 meets the stringent requirements of even the most demanding digital recording and live
broadcasting applications.
This user guide covers the operation of the RSM-3 microphone and the available optional accessories.
To take full advantage of the superb features of your microphone, and to enjoy long and trouble-free 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-3 microphone was carefully packed at the factory, and the shipping carton (and 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-3, 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).
STANDARD ITEMS SUPPLIED
• RSM-3 ribbon microphone
• Padded nylon carrying case
• Padded wooden storage box
• Shockmount
• User Guide
• Warranty card
FEATURES
• Versatile physical and acoustic design for numerous recording
applications, including brass instruments, strings, piano,
percussion, vocals and orchestra ambiance
• Low-tension 35 mm long, 2 micron thick aluminum ribbon design
for flat and well balanced audio reproduction with a deep, full
low end; well defined, realistic mids; and sweet natural, musical
sounding highs
• Fast accurate detailed transients, ultra-high >148dB SPL
capability, overall stunning “you-are-there” realism
• Offers a choice of pickup audio depending on placement for
utmost versatility in dialing in the desired “sound”. Figure-8
audio directional (pickup) pattern for both front and rear side,
with extended sweet spots (as compared to large diaphragm
condenser mics), and slightly different frequency responses
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)
from front and rear side. Also, increased off-axis high frequency
response on sides, with decreased high response above and
below on-axis (though lower audio levels).
• Enables often useful 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 incorporating a machined
housing with advanced internal shock mount construction for the
highest structural integrity and rugged reliability
• Supplied with a shockmount, padded nylon carrying bag, and
padded wooden storage box
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 the 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-3 please
always follow these 4 precautions:
1. Always protect your RSM-3 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-3! 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-3 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-3.
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 MPF-6 pop filter should always also be used with
your RSM-3. 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-3. 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 service@nady.com. (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-3 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
RIBBON TYPE & DIMENSIONS: Pure aluminum 2.5 microns
thick, 35mm x 5mm (L x W)
POLAR PATTERN: Figure 8
SENSITIVITY: -54dB ±2dB (0dB=1V/Pa.)
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 30~15KHz (±3 dB)
IMPEDANCE: <= 600 Ohms
RECOMMENDED LOAD IMPEDANCE: 3000 Ohms
MAX. SPL (1% THD @1000Hz): 148 dB
EQUIVALENT NOISE LEVEL TO IEC268-4 (A weighted): 18 dB
S/N RATIO RE 1Pa: 70 dB
MIC CABLE: 3-pin XLR standard link cable
SIZE: Diameter: 1.45" (37 mm), length 6.89" (175 mm)
WEIGHT: 16 oz. (496 g)
Specifications and design subject to change for improvement
purposes without prior notice.
08/18/05
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