The AEA R84 is a large diaphragm ribbon microphone.  It should only be used in the recording studio, as is the case with all ribbon microphones since it is so fragile.  The mic has a figure eight polar pick up pattern and comes with the swivel mount as shown in the picture above.

OVERALL OPINION

Overall, the AEA R84 is an affordable ribbon microphone that is great in a variety of situations.  I've used the mic for mostly in situations where I am looking for as much detail as possible.  Since it is a sensitive microphone, I tend to only use it in situations where there isn't going to be any bleed from anywhere else.  For these reasons I've used it on acoustic guitar and vocals in solo situations, as well as for recording overdubs of acoustic stringed instruments like violin, mandolin, and cello.  This microphone is modeled after the classic RCA ribbon microphones, but offers up this similar style and sound for a fraction of the cost.  It even has a similar logo, so I wouldn't be surprised if they had to make a licensing agreement with RCA to manufacture these microphones.  Beyond the sound quality, the price of this mic is definitely its best attribute.  They have made the microphone affordable for both professionals and amateurs alike without sacrificing sound quality or overall quality of its make up.  While only having a figure 8 polar pick up pattern is a little strange, once you decide to go with it instead of against it, you can really work it to your advantage.  All in all, if you're looking for a high quality ribbon microphone in the style of the old RCAs without the price tag, the AEA R84 is the closest that you're going to get to the real thing without getting a real RCA...