Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Alistair Vance
Written by Alistair Vance

February 23, 2026

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Technical specs of Golden Age Audio microphone

  • Active
  • Polar pattern: Figure-8
  • Frequency range: 30 – 18,000 Hz +/- 3 dB
  • Sensitivity: -40 dB (0 dB=1V/Pa) @ 1 kHz
  • Max. sound pressure level: (<1% THD @ 1kHz): 165 dB
  • Output impedance: 200 Ohm sym.
  • Recommended load impedance: > 1000 Ohm
  • Dimensions: (Ø x H): 69 x 185 mm
  • Weight: 1.5 kg

Images

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active Review: Technical details and self-noise

Additional Information

Customer Review Summary

The Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active is a fascinating piece of equipment that delivers a warm, natural, and detailed sound. This ribbon microphone showcases the benefits of both ribbon and tube technology, creating a unique audio experience that is particularly impressive for vocals and instruments alike.

However, it is important to note that this microphone is quite sensitive, picking up even the slightest background noise, which can be distracting. Careful management of the gain level is essential to ensure usable recordings, as excessive noise can become problematic.

Despite this, the microphone excels in various applications, including as a room mic or for capturing piano sounds. It pairs exceptionally well with dynamic microphones like the SM57, enhancing the overall tonal quality with added richness and depth.

See also  Sennheiser MKH 8040 Review: Everything about this model

The build quality is commendable, although there have been some concerns regarding the included 7-pin XLR cable, which may not meet the high standards of the microphone itself. Upgrading to a higher-quality cable can significantly improve the signal quality and reduce interference.

Overall, the Golden Age Audio Project R1 Tube active offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio, making it a worthwhile addition for any serious audio enthusiast looking for a premium microphone.



Read more…
Alistair Vance

Based in Bristol, Al has spent over a decade mixing local bands before specialising in hybrid studio consulting. He’s obsessed with the price-to-performance ratio, helping musicians achieve a "Radio Ready" sound without the need for a £50,000 Neve console. No fluff, just honest gear reviews to get your tracks sounding professional on a real-world budget.

×
Produit
Lowest price spotted:
See the deal
The lowest price, spotted by our partner See the deal
×