When do you know you need to re-ribbon a ribbon?

[henryrobinett]

What does a ribbon sound like when the ribbon is shot? What are some sound characteristics I need to look out for? I did a live gig not too long ago where I used my Royer 121 on a trumpet. Then it was used, to my horror, as a speaking mic. "Ps" galore. It seems to be fine. Then last night I did a heavy guitar session and used the 121 and a AEA 84 on a cab. Listening back there are a few splats on the 84.

I used a 121 once where it just sounded really bad. We decided the ribbon was shot. Then after a couple of days it was back to being wonderful. Like it needed a rest or something. Am I nuts?

[Nerve Nickels]

It might have been the conditions under which you were recording, or maybe it is in fact damaged...

I would contact Royer and get a better understanding of the mic...see what the makers say...this will give you more confidence and make you feel less 'crazy'... I found the manual to be quite informative...you can download it from there website if you don't have it...

best

[henryrobinett]

OK, thanks. But what are some tell tale signs? What happens to the sound? What can happen? I mean are there any signs that I should look out for, or is it when it just sounds different or tired or wokey or do they suddenly sound distorted? What?