With phantom-powered JFET electronics and a custom German transformer, the N13 performs equally well with a wide range of preamps ranging from vintage high-end models to USB audio interfaces common in home studio setups. AEA's NUVO series microphones have long been user favorites for their clarity, portability, and higher-output active electronics. The near-field N22 delivers clarity and balance for close-up sources, while the far-field N8 excels at capturing the open, natural tonality of entire rooms and ensembles. The only missing piece? A stand-out mid-field companion. Enter the N13, an equally sleek active ribbon designed with some distinctly different considerations in mind. At once open and natural, the N13 excels at medium-distance miking applications while demonstrating an impressive transient response. The N13 features a new motor design as well as a thinner, smaller ribbon (1.2 microns, rather than our standard 1.8), making it AEA's first non-Big Ribbon bidirectional mic. Bright and sonically distinct from our N22 model, the N13 excels in capturing the subtle nuances of strings, acoustic guitars, and percussion. It's also well-suited for any sources that could use a boost in top-end clarity. Even when used up close, such as on horns or vocals, the N13 delivers exceptional clarity while also taking EQ extremely well. AEA's first non-Big Ribbon bidirectional microphone Evenly balanced proximity effect at mid-field distances (~8"-36") 1.2 micron thick ribbon excels at capturing transients Low profile and slate gray finish for discreet placement Shines on horns, strings, acoustic guitar, and drum overheads Made in the U.S.A.