Michael_Joly wrote:A few years ago now, Tape Op Message Board folks got together and organized one of the first group buys of a Chinese ribbon mic. Er...maybe "organized" is a bit to generous...we sort of stumbled through the process and were helped along by Pacific Pro Audio who acted as the buying agent with the Chinese factory. In true Tape Op spirit, there was quite a bit of good-natured group discussion around which features the mic should have. A mic similar to the T.Bone RB500 (Big, yoke mounted body capped with an angled headbasket surrounding a "long ribbon / narrow magnet" ribbon motor) except with built-in XLR connector instead of long XLR cable was eventually delivered to the group.seavote wrote:just curious. what is a TOMB ribbon mic? was this a DIY from a tape op article?
After the mics arrived folks again shared their observations about the performance of the mic. Over time, in a few posts, I published an analysis of the mechanical and acoustical resonances found in the mic and a short list of modifications that a reasonably skilled DIY'er could do to improve their mic: removing internal grille mesh to reduce acoustic reflections and provide a more open sound; removing "waffle plate" resonators to eliminate that source of midrange mechanical resonance; installation of acoustic damping in the body to eliminate that cavity's boxiness; installation of a Lundahl output transformer to improve clarity, reduce midrange ringing distortion and extend frequency response; adjust tension of ribbon to eliminate sag which causes low output and / or mechanical clanging and a recommendation to tweak wiring lead dress to minimize hum pick up.
Other's have commented on the good vibes and excitement around this venture - "I'm in for two and I can pay" was the cry of day. If I'm not mistaken, you can see the TOMB ribbon mic in action and feel those good vibes in the Eno-esque "Counterfeit Umbrella" video by TOMBer Inverse Room:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoZQG57PodA
very interesting. whats the likelihood of this happenign again for all newbies like myself who missed first time round? i'm sure it wouldnt be half as exciting doing it a second time, as the true pioneering has already been done, but still, a nice, TOMB tried and tested mic for cheap sounds like a great idea. damn, where was I?