The active NUVO N8 is a modern ribbon mic that records the live, natural sound of instruments within a space as it would sound in-person, with all subtlety and nuance present. It effortlessly captures complex sources like drums, strings, piano, and other instruments that can produce intricate transients, harsh highs, and bellowing lows.
Where To BuyThe N8 is a far-field ribbon mic, meaning it is designed to be positioned at an ideal distance of 12 inches or farther from the source of sound. This far-field design allows for a wide range of options when positioning the N8 to best capture an instrument within the context of a room.
From as far away as 20 feet away, the N8 retains the low end frequencies of the sources it captures, and its open, natural tonality makes it perfect to record an entire orchestras or the full low end of a drum kit
Watch the N8s in action on Zach Harmon’s drumming in this AEA Session.
The N8 is the mono version of the AEA R88 stereo microphone with active electronics.
Engineers in both the studio and on the scoring stage who use the R88 desired a mono version that was more discreet, lightweight and easier to position. The N8 and R88 share the same minimalist design philosophy and honest sound. A pair of N8s with the NUVO stereo kit can emulate the R88, but a special preamp is not needed since the N8 uses active circuitry.
With increased durability and a small profile, it’s no wonder that a wide range of performers use AEA’s NUVO series microphones on the road. The mics are totally rugged and hold up to daily wear and tear.
From outdoor gigs at music festivals to indoor theaters, NUVO mics are the perfect companion to bring the sound of studio recordings to the live stage. With the NUVO Windscreen, never worry about the ribbon – even at windy gigs.
Bands now using N8s and N22s on the road include Bonnie Raitt, Alicia Keys, Aerosmith, Mitski, Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, Alabama Shakes, War On Drugs, Local Natives, The Head and The Heart, Sara Watkins, Kurt Vile, Deerhunter, Jamestown Revival, JOHNNYSWIM, Brandi Carlile, Autolux, Foxygen, Kruger Brothers, Cam, Pedro the Lion, The Districts, Valerie June, Mitski, King Krule, The Head and The Heart, Ought and more.
“[The N8] has depth, detail, and bottom end for days. So much focus and tone from one phantom powered ribbon mic…”
“Whatever, these mics are terrific and I like them a lot.”
“The N8 has a fantastically full and natural tone, and can easily and safely be hoisted above an orchestra.”
“The N8 shares some sonic DNA with the R88 for sure, so it was like being able to use that beast of a mic in a dual mono, Glyn Johns configuration, and the take turned out great in combination with the other kit. Honestly, I didn't find anything that the N8 didn't make sound great anywhere you'd use a normal ribbon…”
– Chris Koltay read the full review“For more classical orchestral instruments, the N8 sounded sublime on cello and violin, and (excuse the total heresy!) I think I preferred it to my life-long favourite ribbon, the Coles 4038!... This is a very nice and well-priced microphone and I think Wes and AEA really have realised a ribbon mic for the 21st century. Highly recommended.”
– Hugh Robjohns read the full review“All the AEA models sound great, and ever since my 2012 review the R88mk2 has been on my short list of must-haves as the “set it and forget it” room mic. However, I am now thinking the N8 may be the better choice in the long run. It offers more versatility and placement options thanks to its smaller size and light weight, and I love how it pairs with the N22... Oh, decisions, decisions!”
– Paul Vnuk Jr. read the full reviewKnowing the difference will change the way you record.
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