Nady Systems RSM-4 User Manual
RSM-4 Studio Instrument & Vocal Ribbon Microphone
USER GUIDE
Congratulations on purchasing the Nady RSM-4 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. Especially suited for recording guitar
amplifier cabinets, the versatile RSM-4 is also great on 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 classic ribbon mics, the RSM-4 meets the
stringent requirements of even the most demanding digital recording and live broadcasting
applications.
This manual covers the operation of the RSM-4 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-4 microphone was carefully packed at the factory, and the shipping carton and internally padded wooden storage case were
designed to protect the unit during shipping. Please always store your mic in the wooden case and also retain the shipping 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-4, 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-4 ribbon microphone
• Foam padded wooden storage box
• Mic clip
• Velvet drawstring storage bag
• User Guide
• Warranty card
FEATURES
• The unparalleled, uncompromised sound of a classic ribbon
(velocity) mic
• Versatile design for numerous applications, including close
miking of guitar amps and cabinets, and many other vocal and
instrument recording and live sound uses
• Low-tension 45mm long, 6 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
side, with extended sweet spots (as compared to large
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)
diaphragm condenser mics), and slightly different frequency
responses 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).
• 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
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-4 please always follow these 4
precautions:
1. Always protect your RSM-4 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 handled 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-4! When using, always
utilize a pop filter, such as the optional Nady MPF-6, to prevent
USING THE OPTIONAL MPF-6 POP FILTER
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-4 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-4.
4. When not in use, always keep the microphone in the padded
wooden box 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 the
wooden box should be placed on its side so that the mic is in an
upright position when storing.
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-4. 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-4. 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-4 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, 6 microns thick,
45mm 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: 3" (76 mm), length 6.5" (165 mm),
thickness 1” (25 mm)
Net weight: 12 oz (794g)
Specifications and design subject to change for improvement
purposes without prior notice.
06/30/05
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