How to Care for Your Ribbon Microphone

A ribbon microphone is a living thing. Treat it right, and it will reward you with decades of faithful service. Treat it carelessly, and that delicate aluminum ribbon, thinner than a human hair, can collapse, stretch, or tear. Here’s how to keep your Potofone ribbon microphone performing perfectly for years to come.

Keep It Upright and Protected

Store your ribbon microphone vertically in its case when not in use. The ribbon element hangs under its own weight, and long periods of horizontal storage can let gravity slowly loosen the tension. When traveling, cushion it well and avoid letting it bump or rattle around in gear bags. Think of it like a fine instrument, not a hammer.

Avoid Air Blasts and Phantom Power

Ribbon microphones hate sudden gusts of air. Always use a pop filter for vocals and keep a few inches of space between the mic and a loud sound source like a guitar amp. Never blow into it to “check if it’s on.” That’s a quick way to end its career.

Also, do not apply phantom power (48V) to a passive ribbon mic. It won’t make it sound better; it can fry it. Active ribbon mics (with built-in electronics) are the exception, but Potofone models are passive, so leave phantom power off.

Mind Your Placement

Ribbon mics can handle high sound pressure, but distance is your friend. Six to twelve inches from a guitar cabinet or brass bell gives warmth without blast. For vocals, one to two feet away with a pop filter is the sweet spot. Avoid pointing it directly at moving air, fans, vents, or drums, as strong bursts of air will all shorten its lifespan.

Watch the Environment

Humidity and temperature extremes can corrode or slacken the ribbon. Keep it in a dry, climate-controlled space, not a damp basement or hot car trunk. If you live in a humid region, toss a small silica packet into the case to absorb moisture.

Know When to Re-Ribbon

Even with perfect care, ribbons age. If your mic starts sounding dull or losing level, the ribbon may need a simple re-tensioning or replacement. Potofone offers service options to restore your microphone to factory performance, because a good ribbon mic is worth maintaining, not replacing.

The Potofone Promise

Every Potofone ribbon microphone is hand-built with precision components and tested for durability. With mindful care and respectful handling, your mic will last for decades and age like a well-played instrument, warmer, wiser, and uniquely yours.