Audio Engineering Associates (AEA) is a US-based company founded in 1976 by Wes Dooley, renowned for its dedication to preserving and advancing ribbon microphone technology. Originally focused on servicing and restoring classic RCA ribbon mics, AEA went on to design and build its own range of modern ribbon microphones and high-performance preamps, combining vintage-inspired craftsmanship with contemporary engineering. Today, AEA is respected worldwide for producing microphones and preamps that deliver the warmth, detail, and natural sound of ribbons, making them a trusted choice for professional recording engineers and musicians across genres.