A ribbon microphone works by using a thin strip of metal (the ribbon) to convert sound waves into an electrical signal. When sound waves enter the microphone, they cause the ribbon to vibrate within a magnetic field. These vibrations produce an electrical current proportional to the sound waves, creating the microphone's output signal. The ribbon's movement within the magnetic field generates the electrical signal, capturing the nuances of the sound with a natural and warm quality. Ribbon microphones are known for their fragility, requiring careful handling to avoid damage to the delicate ribbon element. They typically do not require phantom power, and it's important to always check before applying phantom power, as doing so incorrectly can damage the microphone.