The 121 does not use phantom power. The 122 does use phantom power. The 121 will, acording to Royer, only be damaged if phantom power is applied to the cable when it is connected thus jarring the ribon.... The mic was $900, NIB. I'm trying it out. No verdict yet. Sounds a little dull compared to a conderser mic. Only tried vocals and acoustic guitar so far. Too busy remodeling right now. Thanks, John