Golden Age Project R1 MKII Review

The Golden Age Project R1 MKII is a corded electric microphone from Golden Age Project, finished in Golden and listed with a Foil material type. My read of the spec sheet is that this is not a casual plug-anywhere mic; the detail I would plan around first is the RCA connector, because that decides what other hardware has to sit between the mic and the recorder.

How I’d Think About the RCA Connection

If I were building a chain around the R1 MKII, I would not assume it drops straight into a modern recording setup without checking the input path carefully. Many people shopping for microphones are thinking in terms of USB into a computer or XLR into an audio interface. This one is listed with an RCA connector, so I’d verify exactly what the receiving device accepts before ordering anything.

An adapter may solve the physical plug problem, but it does not automatically solve the recording-chain problem. I’d still want the right preamp, mixer, interface, or compatible input arrangement for microphone-level work. That is the main practical caution here: the microphone itself is only one part of the system, and this connector makes the rest of the system harder to ignore.

Desk, Stand, and Cable Planning Matter Here

At 3.45 pounds and 15.98 x 9.02 x 7.01 inches, I would treat the Golden Age Project R1 MKII as a fixed-room microphone rather than a grab-and-go accessory. I’d want a stable stand, a sensible cable route, and enough space that the cable is not pulling at the mic while someone is recording.

The corded electric power source is simple in the sense that there are no batteries to manage. The flip side is that placement is tied to available cable length and input location. For a compact desk setup, I’d think through strain relief and where the connected gear will sit before assuming it will stay neat.

What I’d Check Before Buying the R1 MKII

The listed Foil material type is another reason I’d be careful about handling expectations. I would not buy this assuming it should be treated like a throw-it-in-a-bag stage mic. I’d plan on controlled placement, protected storage, and a setup where it is not constantly being moved around.

• Model number: 4330236105
• Date first available: February 9, 2012
• Manufacturer: Golden Age Project

I’d skip the Golden Age Project R1 MKII if I needed plug-and-play USB recording, a lightweight travel microphone, or guaranteed compatibility with an XLR-only setup without extra hardware. I’d consider it only if the connector, stand requirements, and fixed-studio workflow all make sense before purchase.