AEA Limited-Edition KU4A Active Supercardioid Ribbon Microphone

The Limited Edition KU4A active supercardioid ribbon microphone from AEA blends vintage ribbon warmth with modern clarity and control. Featuring a unique supercardioid pattern and near-field design, it's ideal for close-range recording and bleed rejection in complex studio or live environments. With smooth midrange response and a bright tonal character, the KU4A handles everything from vocals to drums with full-spectrum detail. Built for high SPL sources and professional demands, it brings polished, reliable performance to any session.

Supercardioid Pattern for Focused Recording

The KU4A's supercardioid polar pattern captures your source with precision while rejecting bleed and reflections. Unlike figure-eight ribbons, it simplifies mic placement and avoids room tone, making it perfect for tracking in tight setups or live rooms. Whether on vocals or instruments, this pattern helps maintain clarity and separation across takes.

Near-Field Design for Tight Mic Placement

Optimized for close-miking, the KU4A delivers detailed recordings at distances from 1–18". With minimal proximity effect beyond 6", you can mic close without overwhelming low end. From vocals to strings and kick drums, its near-field voicing makes it easy to capture rich, balanced tone right at the source.

Bright Ribbon Tone With Smooth Midrange

Brighter than most ribbons, the KU4A delivers condenser-like clarity while keeping the smooth midrange ribbons are loved for. It adds presence without harshness, making it a go-to for vocals, woodwinds and SPL-heavy sources like kick drums. Its voicing bridges vintage character and modern edge with ease.

High SPL Handling for Demanding Sources

With the ability to handle over 140 dB SPL, the KU4A is built to record loud sources without distortion or risk of damage. From aggressive drums to amplified instruments, this active ribbon mic offers clean, controlled performance—even under pressure.

Built for the Studio and Beyond

The KU4A combines classic ribbon tone with rugged, pro-grade construction. Its active electronics improve output and reliability, making it suitable for both studio sessions and live performance. Whether you're tracking vocals or tight-miking instruments, it delivers the tone and clarity engineers depend on.

Why Choose the KU4A Active Ribbon Microphone?

The KU4A solves close-miking challenges with style and precision. Its supercardioid pattern, near-field focus and bright, balanced voicing make it a flexible, high-performance tool for professionals who want the classic ribbon sound—refined for today's workflows.