Dual Element Ribbon
Dual Element Ribbon
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 Art Pro MPA II Pro MPA 2 Pro MPAll PROAUDIOSTAR  US $269.00
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 Beyerdynamic M160 M 160 Hypercardioid Ribbon Mic IN STOCK NYC PROAUDIOSTAR US $559.00
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 Cascade 731R Dual Element Ribbon Mic US $299.00
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 CAD Trion 7000 Dual Element Ribbon Microphone Bundle US $199.99
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3141bD Wireless Microphone System US $499.01
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 HEIL HDK 7 Professional Drum Microphone KIT Awesome US $1,529.00
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 Avantone Audio CR 14 Ribbon Mic w Shock Mt Case US $259.00
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 Beyer M 130 BEYERDYNAMIC m130 BRAND NEW IN STOCK PROAUDIOSTAR US $699.00
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 Avantone Pro CR 14 CR14 Ribbon Microphone Mic PROAUDIOSTAR US $259.00
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 Shure KSM313 Dual Voice Roswellite Ribbon Mic US $1,295.00
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 CAD Trion 7000 Dual Element Ribbon Microphone US $199.99
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 CAD Trion 7000 Dual Element Ribbon Microphone Deluxe Bundle US $209.99
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 CAD Trion 7000 Dual Element Ribbon Microphone Professional Bundle US $229.99
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 CAD Joe Satriani Guitar Amp Microphone Pack Ribbon Dynamic New In Box US $199.99
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 New SE Electronics SE RNR1 Neve Ribbon Microphone Rupert Lets Deal US $1,995.00
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 Avantone CR14 Ribbon Microphone US $259.00
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 ART TPS II TubePre Amplifer Varible Valve Voice MSRP $229 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $185.00
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T4100aC Wireless Mic Transmitter US $459.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T3300aD Wireless Mic Transmitter US $649.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T3300aC Wireless Mic Transmitter US $649.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T5400aC Wireless Mic Transmitter US $839.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T4100aD Wireless Mic Transmitter US $459.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3131bC Wireless Lavalier Mic System US $499.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T6100aD Wireless Mic Transmitter US $459.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T6100aC Wireless Mic Transmitter US $459.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA AEW T5400aD Wireless Mic Transmitter US $839.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3131bD Wireless Lavalier Mic System US $499.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3141bC Wireless Microphone System US $499.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3131bI Wireless Lavalier Mic System US $499.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3171bC Wireless Microphone System US $599.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3141bI Wireless Microphone System US $499.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3171bD Wireless Microphone System US $599.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3171bI Wireless Microphone System US $599.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bD TH Wireless Headworn System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bC TH Wireless Headworn System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bD Wireless Headworn Mic System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bI Wireless Headworn Mic System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bC Wireless Headworn Mic System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3192bI TH Wireless Headworn System US $639.01
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3110bI UHF Wireless Bodypack System US $399.00
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3110bD UHF Wireless Bodypack System US $399.00
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 AUDIO TECHNICA ATW 3110bC UHF Wireless Bodypack System US $399.00
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 SHURE SM93 Omni Directional Condenser Micro Lavalier US $158.99
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 CAD Trion 7000 Mic Shockmount Case MH310 Cable Filter US $224.99
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 Beyer M 130 BEYERDYNAMIC m130 PROAUDIOSTAR US $559.00
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 ART VoiceChannel Tube Strip w Digital Connect MSRP $54900 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $439.00
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 CAD Trion 7000 Dual Element Ribbon Microphone US $197.09
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 ART DPS II Digital I O PreAmp VaribleVoice MSRP $329 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $265.00
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 ART Digital MPA II 2 Ch Mic PreAmp with A D MSRP $539 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $399.00
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 ART ProMPA II Two Channel Mic PreAmp MSRP $379 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $299.00
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Ddrum Drt Dual Element Snare Trigger $79 The ddrum DRT Dual Element Kick Trigger features dual redundant trigger technology that lets you switch between 2 different elements in the same trigger housing. This fail-safe back-up triggering system ensures that your show will run smooth. |
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Ddrum Drt 5-Piece Dual Element Trigger Pack $299 The ddrum DRT Dual Element Trigger Pack includes five ddrum triggers with dual redundant trigger technology that lets you switch between 2 different elements in the same trigger housing. This fail-safe back-up triggering system ensures that your show will run smooth.Five-pack of switchable dual element triggers with Secure XLR connector Wide dynamic range Rugged metal housing Precision response Easily replaceable transducer Works with popular drum modules Dual triggers with toggle switch to select alternate transducer without having to switch XLR cables |
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Audio-Technica At4080 Bidirectional Active Ribbon Microphone $999 The groundbreaking Audio-Technica AT4080 Microphone achieves coveted ribbon microphone sound while solving the fragility and low output problems that have historically plagued ribbon mics. Delivering the warm, smooth sound of a classic ribbon microphone, the handcrafted bidirectional AT4080 offers a robust build for long-lasting, reliable performance, as well as higher output for maximum compatibility with microphone preamplifiers. Equally at home in recording studios and live-sound settings, the AT4080 microphone boasts Audio-Technica's innovative MicroLinear ribbon imprint, which protects the dual ribbons from lateral flexing and distortion. The innovative AT ribbon transducer advances the evolution of ribbon microphone design. Other enhancements include powerful N50 neodymium magnets for high output level, ultra-fine mesh to protect the ribbon against damage, high-SPL capability, and extended frequency response. The bidirectional AT4080 ribbon mic's housing assembly is open acoustically to minimize unwanted internal audio reflections.Smooth, warm and natural high-fidelity sound for professional recording, broadcast, and sound reinforcement Groundbreaking Audio-Technica ribbon design with 18 patents pending Proprietary MicroLinear ribbon imprint for superior durability Innovative dual ribbon construction for increased sensitivity Extremely powerful N50 neodymium magnets for high output level Ultra-fine mesh helps protect against ribbon damage Classic bidirectional (figure-of-eight) polar pattern picks up sounds equally from the front and back of the element High-SPL capability and extended frequency response Extended frequency response for natural audio reproduction Acoustic baffle system and extra large output transformer provide natural low-frequency response and extended dynamic range Handmade production including ribbon corrugation, imprint, and assembly Open acoustical environment of the housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections Phantom-powered active electronics provide stable impedance and higher output for maximum compatibility with microphone preamplifiers Custom shock mount provides superior isolation Certified by the METAlliance (Music Engineering and Technology Alliance) Accessories Furnished: AT8449/SV shock mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands, microphone dust cover, protective R1-style carrying case |
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Ddrum Drt Dual Element Kick Trigger $79 The ddrum DRT Dual Element Kick Trigger features dual redundant trigger technology that lets you switch between 2 different elements in the same trigger housing. This fail-safe back-up triggering system ensures that your show will run smooth.Secure XLR connector Wide dynamic range Rugged metal housing Precision response Easily replaceable transducer Works with popular drum modules Dual triggers with toggle switch to select alternate transducer without having to switch XLR cables |
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Ddrum Drt Dual Element Tom Trigger $59 The ddrum DRT Dual Element Tom Trigger features dual redundant trigger technology that lets you switch between 2 different elements in the same trigger housing. This fail-safe back-up triggering system ensures that your show will run smooth.Secure XLR connector Wide dynamic range Rugged metal housing Precision response Easily replaceable transducer Works with popular drum modules Dual triggers with toggle switch to select alternate transducer without having to switch XLR cables |
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Rode Microphones NT4 Dual-Element Stereo Microphone $529 The RØDE NT4 Dual-Element Stereo Microphone is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone specifically designed for stereo recording. It features dual heads in a 90° XY configurationgreat for acoustic guitar, live concerts, and when mono-compatibility is an issue. Its compact size and design allows for effective and subtle positioning which is crucial when close miking. The NT4 is supplied with a custom case, stereo breakout cable, stand mount, and windscreen.Requires phantom power. |
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Rode Microphones Nt4 Dual-Element Stereo Microphone $529 The RDE NT4 Dual-Element Stereo Microphone is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone specifically designed for stereo recording. It features dual heads in a 90 XY configurationgreat for acoustic guitar, live concerts, and when mono-compatibility is an issue. Its compact size and design allows for effective and subtle positioning which is crucial when close miking. The NT4 is supplied with a custom case, stereo breakout cable, stand mount, and windscreen.Requires phantom power.XY-stereo coincident-pair elementsCompact sizeHigh SPL/low noiseGreat sound |
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Audio-Technica Atm250de Dual-Element Instrument Microphone $299 The Artist Series ATM250DE dual-element instrument microphone features cardioid condenser and hypercardioid dynamic capsules combined in a single housing. Audio-Technica's innovative use of two polar patterns is ideal for kick drum: the hypercardioid dynamic element focuses tightly on the aggressive attack of the beater, while the condenser captures the round tonalities of the shell. The elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship, something practically impossible to achieve with two separate microphones. Not just for kick drum, Metallica is now using the ATM250DE in concert, on all guitar cabs, and it's also stellar on bass amps. Includes a professional isolation clamp to provide secure mounting, versatile positioning and effective dampening of unwanted mechanical noise.Audio-Technica's proven dual-element design features two elements (condenser and dynamic) enclosed in a single housing Neodymium dynamic element provides punch and attack, while the condenser element captures the full audio spectrum Elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship, something practically unachievable with two separate microphones Perfect for kick drum, guitar amps and instrument use Integral 80 Hz HPF switch and 10 dB pad (condenser element) Versatile mounting options and effective dampening of mechanical noise thanks to included AT8471 isolation clamp Corrosion-resistant contacts from gold-plated XLRM-type connector Rugged, all-metal design and construction for years of trouble-free use |
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Used Audio-Technica Ae2500 Dual-Element Kick Drum Microphone $499.59 The Audio-Technica AE2500 kick drum mic has a dynamic element that delivers the aggressive attack of the beater while the condenser captures the round tonalities of the shell. The dual elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship, which is practically unachievable with 2 separate microphones. Robust design provides enduring dependability on the road. The AE2500 microphone features an integral 80Hz HPF switch and a 10dB pad. Includes the Audio-Technica AT8471 isolation clamp.Revolutionary dual-element design Condenser and dynamic elements are contained in a single housing Elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship Robust design provides enduring dependability on the road Integral 80Hz HPF switch and a 10dB pad Includes the AT8471 isolation clamp |
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Audio-Technica Ae2500 Dual-Element Kick Drum Microphone $549 The Audio-Technica AE2500 kick drum mic has a dynamic element that delivers the aggressive attack of the beater while the condenser captures the round tonalities of the shell. The dual elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship, which is practically unachievable with 2 separate microphones. Robust design provides enduring dependability on the road. The AE2500 microphone features an integral 80Hz HPF switch and a 10dB pad. Includes the Audio-Technica AT8471 isolation clamp.Revolutionary dual-element design Condenser and dynamic elements are contained in a single housing Elements are positioned in a perfect phase relationship Robust design provides enduring dependability on the road Integral 80Hz HPF switch and a 10dB pad Includes the AT8471 isolation clamp |
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Shure Mx396c Microflex Multi-Element Boundary Microphone Dual $349.99 The MX396 Tri-Element Boundary Microphone features three cardioid elements that are adjustable to 120-120-120 degrees, a mute output, and an LED input. The cable can exit from either the back or bottom exit of the unit. The Shure MX396 Tri-Element microphone is a unique and versatile tool for conference room installations, providing full coverage of large tables using fewer microphones, and a low profile design. Clean and simple in appearance, the MX396 boundary mic is ideal for use in boardrooms and other installations where aesthetics are important. The Shure multi-element plate microphone is also available in a dual element configuration.End of table (300 degrees ), center of table (360 degrees ), or cross table (bidirectional) coverage patternsLow profile, aesthetic designWide dynamic range and smooth frequency responseIndividual control of each elementBi-color status indicatorProgrammable mute switchLogic input/output for remote LED and mute controlRadio Frequency filtering with CommShield technologyConfigurable mute switch with logic output |
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Royer R-101 Ribbon Microphone Black $799 The R-101 is a mono, passive ribbon microphone utilizing a patented offset-ribbon transducer and a 2.5-micron ribbon element. The R-101 is hand-built in Royer's Burbank, CA facility and delivered at a price point suitable for home studio use and live applications. The R-101 is a new breed of modern ribbon microphone, designed for studio work and demanding live applications (particularly live electric guitar and brass). It incorporates many features pioneered by Royer Labs, including an advanced multi-layered wind screen for superior protection from air blasts and plosives, a patented offset-ribbon transducer, and an internally shock mounted ribbon transducer system which provides greater isolation from shocks and vibrations, and reduced proximity effect for closer miking with less bass buildup. Throw it on a guitar cabinet, hit record, play it back, smile. The ribbon element's smooth frequency response and phase linearity impart a warm, analog feel to digital recordings, where the depth and realism on playback feels more like tape rolling than digits being computed. A perfect choice for electric guitars, brass instruments and drums, the R-101's figure-8 pattern also conveys superb ambience and depth when used for room miking applications. Patented Offset Ribbon Technology The R-101 incorporates Royer's patented offset-ribbon technology and a low mass, 2.5-micron aluminum (99.9% pure) ribbon element. The ribbon transducer's flux-frame and rare earth Neodymium magnets create a powerful magnetic field which increases sensitivity while reducing stray magnetic radiation. The R-101's offset-ribbon transducer (Patent # 6,434,252) positions the ribbon element towards the front (logo) side of the microphone body. This proprietary arrangement gives the ribbon element more room to move within the prime magnetic field and maintain full frequency response during high SPL recordings. It's an integral part of the magic in all Royer R-series microphones. The offset-ribbon transducer also gives you the option of a brighter response when recording lower SPL sound sources on the backside (3 feet and closer; phase reversed in this position). The backside of the mic is often preferred on vocals, acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments.Like all Royer mics, the R-101 comes with a lifetime warranty to the original owner and the first re-ribbon is free.High SPL capabilities for electric guitar and percussionMulti-layered windscreen provides superior protection to ribbon elementNo internal electronics to overload or produce distortion up tomaximum SPL ratingExtremely low residual noiseRibbon element not affected by heat or humidityAbsence of high-frequency peaks, "ringing" and phase shiftsEqual sensitivity from front or back of elementLifetime warranty, 1st re-ribbon is freeApplications:Close mikingElectric & acoustic guitarsDrum overheads, kick drum Percussion instrumentsBrass, horn sectionsStrings-solo & sectionsAcoustic pianoVocalsLive events-recording and soun |
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Mxl 990 Ribbon Microphone $79.99 A modern classic, the MXL 990 Ribbon mic is the result of great engineering. With an amazingly smooth and natural frequency response, the 990 Ribbon mic excels in the most demanding recording applications. It can be used to enhance string and woodwind instruments, along with mellow, edgy vocals and overly bright horns. It is equally at home when used in conjunction with a grand piano or even in front of a guitar cabinet pushing high SPL levels. When it comes to unprecedented versatility, the MXL 990 ribbon mic is a top-notch choice.The MXL 990 Ribbon microphone uses an aluminum ribbon transducer, which by nature is a bidirectional (figure-8) pickup pattern. A figure-8 pattern will pick up sounds from the front and back sides of the microphone with equal sensitivity while maintaining a large amount of rejection 90 degrees off access. The front of the microphone is indicated by the MXL logo where the audio signal is in-phase while the backside has an inverted phase. Ribbon mics typically have a lower output than condenser microphones and may require a preamplifier with a lot of gain. It is highly recommended to use a preamp with low noise, high gain, and an input impedance of 1500 or greater. It is strongly advised to experiment with placement and isolation requirements with the gain initially set low to avoid possible equipment (and hearing) damage.Important Power RequirementsThis microphone does not require a power supply. Use of phantom power with this microphone is not recommended as it can severally damage the ribbon element and causes the microphone to be unusable.Aluminum ribbon transducerBidirectional (figure-8) pickup patternLarge amounts of rejection 90 degrees off accessThe front of the microphone is where the audio signal is in-phase while the backside has an inverted phaseSmooth and natural frequency responseDoes NOT require a power supplyDo NOT use phantom power, which will severely damage the microphoneWired with Mogami cable |
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MXL 990 Ribbon Microphone $99.95 A modern classic, the MXL 990 Ribbon mic is the result of great engineering. With an amazingly smooth and natural frequency response, the 990 Ribbon mic excels in the most demanding recording applications. It can be used to enhance string and woodwind instruments, along with mellow, edgy vocals and overly bright horns. It is equally at home when used in conjunction with a grand piano or even in front of a guitar cabinet pushing high SPL levels. When it comes to unprecedented versatility, the MXL 990 ribbon mic is a top-notch choice.The MXL 990 Ribbon microphone uses an aluminum ribbon transducer, which by nature is a bidirectional (figure-8) pickup pattern. A figure-8 pattern will pick up sounds from the front and back sides of the microphone with equal sensitivity while maintaining a large amount of rejection 90 degrees off access. The front of the microphone is indicated by the MXL logo where the audio signal is in-phase while the backside has an inverted phase. Ribbon mics typically have a lower output than condenser microphones and may require a preamplifier with a lot of gain. It is highly recommended to use a preamp with low noise, high gain, and an input impedance of 1500 or greater. It is strongly advised to experiment with placement and isolation requirements with the gain initially set low to avoid possible equipment (and hearing) damage.Important Power RequirementsThis microphone does not require a power supply. Use of phantom power with this microphone is not recommended as it can severally damage the ribbon element and causes the microphone to be unusable. |
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CAD Trion7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone List Price: $299.00 Sale Price: Too low to display  |
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Thick and rich, the dual ribbon "rounds out" guitar stacks, brass, and woodwinds. A narrow strip of ultra thin aluminum suspended in a magnetic field oscillates symbiotically with your sound source. Electrical current is the result... |
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CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone Bundle with 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth List Price: $319.00 Sale Price: $199.99 |
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Bundle includes CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone, 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth.Thick and rich, the dual ribbon "rounds out" guitar stacks, brass, and woodwinds. A narrow strip of ultra thin aluminum suspended in a magnetic field oscillates symbiotically with your sound source... |
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CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone Bundle with Gator GM-4 Padded Mic Bag, Headphones, Velcro Cable Ties, 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth List Price: $359.00 Sale Price: $229.99 |
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Bundle includes CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone, Gator GM-4 Padded Mic Bag, Headphones, Velcro Cable Ties, 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth.Thick and rich, the dual ribbon "rounds out" guitar stacks, brass, and woodwinds... |
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CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone Bundle with Headphones, Velcro Cable Ties, 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth List Price: $339.00 Sale Price: $209.99 |
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Bundle includes CAD Trion 7000 Dual-Element Ribbon Microphone, Headphones, Velcro Cable Ties, 20-Foot XLR Cable, Windscreen, and Polishing Cloth.Thick and rich, the dual ribbon "rounds out" guitar stacks, brass, and woodwinds... |
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GE CleanDesign JP356BMBB 30 Smoothtop Electric Cooktop - Black Surface with Black Accents Sale Price: $719.00 |
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GE 30" JP356BMBB BLACK BUILT-IN CLEANDESIGN ELECTRIC COOKTOP - JP356BK. CERAMIC GLASS COOKTOP. RIBBON HEATING ELEMENTS. POWERBOIL ELEMENT. CONTROL LOCK CAPABILITY. HOT SURFACE INDICATOR LIGHTS. DISHWASHER SAFE KNOBS... |
Printing ID Card Bages In-house Vs Outsource Printing
When purchasing your new or used ID card printer you need to keep in mind the consumables. There are a variety of ribbon and card options available for a variety of applications. The major cost of your ID card printer is the cost of the ribbons and card consumption.
Price brake down:
- Average price for a Singe-Sided ID card printer is New $2,200.00, used $1,000
- Average price for a 500 blank ID cards is specialty $200.00 or standard $70.00
- Average price for ID card printer ribbon 250 Card Prints is **YMCKO or multi color $200.00 to Mono or single color $50.00
- Average price for Cleaning Kit: includes 25 swabs, 50 cleaning cards $80.00
That is an average price per card is $0.94
For then average business they print around 1,500 cards on an YMCKO single sided printer per year. This cost for an average business is:
Owned ID card Printer
Singe-Sided ID card printer
$1,600.00
Blank ID cards (standard)
$210.00
ID card printer ribbon 250 (** YMCKO)
$1,200.00
Cleaning Kit
$80.00
Average Yearly total with ID card
$3,090.00
Average Yearly total without ID card
$1,490.00
Outsource of print jobs
Fist initial setup fee
$75.00
Per Color ID card $3.00 per card
$4,500.00
Variable data fee
$65.00
Shipping for 1,500 cards
$50.00
Average Yearly total
$4,690.00
Note:The cost of what ID card printer ribbon and supplies depend on what type on what printer model you are using, and then the specific job. Cost may very depending on the amount of cards need to be printed.
With cost in everyone’s mind now a day, buying a printer is a great way to affect your bottom line. The average saving per year is $3,200.00.
After you make the diction to buying an ID card printer you need to know what type of print job you need to do. IF you need a printer just for a single-sided monochrome (one color) you are looking at spending about $0.16 per card. But with monochrome cards you are stuck with just one color. Monochrome card are usually used by Simple organizations like libraries and club memberships.
**YMCKO or multi color card ribbons are much more expensive than monochrome. With colored card ribbon you could print brilliant colored ID card with full colored photos. This allows you to show off our business logo and be more secured with colored photos. With color card ribbon being more expensive it will cost you around $0.95 per card. This is usually used by business who want to print there own ID card, business cards, gift cards or membership cards.
To reduce the cost of per card you could print one-color logo on monochrome (single) colored card ribbon to reduce your cost per unit. Example Reduce your logo to a single color like blue, buy the blue ribbon print all your cards with the single blue ribbon and just print your blue logo. Then take out your blue ribbon and place in your black ribbon and print the text in just the black ribbon. This may take longer will save you around $0.63 per card. With 1,500 cards to print the cost will add up. Also if you have to print on both sided you don’t need to buy a dual-sided printer. Just buy a single sided printer and print one side at a time. All though, this will take twice the time it will save you money on the price of the printer.
Methods used for printing on card
Full color printing
- Color ID card is usually done using dye sublimation ribbon. Dye is released by exposure to tiny, heated metal pins on the print head and bonds chemically with the plastic surface being printed. Since the amount of dye used can be minutely controlled and each color blends easily into the next, this method of printing renders very high quality images.
Thermal transfer printing
- Single color uses resin that is melted onto the plastic in small dots of color. Resin ink is usually the fourth panel on a color cartridge (the K in the YMCK designation stands for black). Resin is the perfect medium for printing crisp lines and is used for bar coding and most monochrome applications. Single color doesn't necessarily mean black - the full range of primary colors is available. There is also metallic cartridge as the printing option.
Full color and Thermal transfer printing can both be carried out in one of two ways. In "direct to card" applications the print head releases dye or ink directly onto the surface of each card. "Retransfer" involves printing the image on the reverse side of a strip of plastic film and then fusing that film to the card. The dye/ink is layered between the card surface and the protective topcoat making it impervious to wear. The direct to card option is often standard in less expensive printer models while retransfer printing is available on many high-end units.
Special Applications and Finishing Options
Dye sublimation printing works best with a UV resistant topcoat to keep the image from fading. Look for an O (overlay) or T (topcoat) in the printer ribbon description to find this finishing option. To save money and reduce waste on reprints, buying a ribbon with an overlay to protect the ID card printer from the elements or user damage. For added security, choose a special custom holographic overcoat for each card. Custom holographic overcoat make it easily visible for identification and protects against id tampering or forgery. A second K in the description is a resin panel for printing black text on the reverse side of a card and is only for use in dual-sided printers. Scratch off ribbon is a popular add-on for covering pin numbers. Signature printer ribbon is used for a card that requires a signature on the card (like credit cards).
Regular Maintenance
Buying an ID card printer is a big investment. Maintaining them is important in extending the life of the printer and keeps the quality of each printed card. Especial if you use your card printer on a regular basis, consider buying ID card cleaning kit. After excessive uses then printhead and rollers becomes dirty. Regular cleaning will save repair cost on your ID card printer. Remember to order any printer ribbons and cleaning supplies.
Name Brand vs. Off Brand
All ID card printers are designed to work best with there consumables provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) since consumable supplies are there number 1 important revenue stream. This doesn't mean you can't use a generic brand*, just be cautious. Non-OEM printer ribbons may not give you the quality you get with OEM.
*Note: Don't let a printer manufacturer void your warranty because you used off brand consumables - this is a violation of federal law per the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act of 1975.
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Printer Ribbon definition
Y
Yellow
M
Magenta
C
Cyan
K
Black
O
Overlay
About the Author
For more info on ID Card printers or Outsource Custom Cards visit
http://stores.allid.com/catalog/Complete_Manufactures_List.html
http://stores.allid.com/catalog/allid_custom_card_creation-2.html
http://www.allid.com