Microfiles: The Primo UD-863, A Distinctive (Looking) Microphone Circa The 1960s
The functionality and aesthetics of a cardioid dynamic design with a non-metallic diaphragm.
March 14, 2024
Microfiles
Microfiles: The Stylish Teisco TM-4 Microphone
A dynamic design from a Japan-based manufacturer with switchable impedance via a high/low switch mounted under the head with impedance stated as “Hi-50K Ohms, Lo-600 Ohms.”
September 22, 2023
Microfiles: The Lafayette 99-45460, An Omnidirectional Child Of The 70s
This mic had all of the features I needed, including high impedance, an on/off switch, built-in stand mount – and a low price!
July 27, 2023
Microfiles: Electro-Voice 664, The Legendary “Buchanan Hammer”
A single-element cardioid dynamic model originating in the mid-1950s that’s the first model to incorporate the company’s patented Variable-D design.
May 8, 2023
Microfiles: The RCA Aeropressure MI-6207-G, Providing “Semi-Directional” Performance
An early “pressure” design with a Paracoustic baffle to help control directionality; plus a bit of RCA history…
March 2, 2023
Microfiles: The American D-22, Form & Function In One Package
A micro-metal alloy diaphragm dynamic design from the early 1950s designed for a range of applications and with aesthetics optimized for television.
October 28, 2022
Microfiles: Audio-Technica AT811, A Handheld Cardioid Electret Condenser From The 1970s
“The 811 was designed for use in professional recording applications and is equally suited for serious amateur recording, high-quality sound reinforcement and other demanding sound pickup situations.”
September 26, 2022
Microfiles: Altec Lansing 681A, A Dynamic Handheld Model That Checks The Boxes
An inexpensive omnidirectional design for general purpose applications such as public address systems that also proved popular with garage bands and working musicians.
August 9, 2022
Microfiles: The Stromberg-Carlson MD-56CS, A Mic By Many Other Names…
A dynamic-type design public address and general purpose microphone dating back to the late 1940s.
June 17, 2022
Microfiles: The Sears 6591, A Dynamic Handheld From The Then “World’s Largest Retailer”
A classic cardioid design from the mid-1960s with a “frequency response tailored for use with guitar amplifiers.”
April 4, 2022
Microfiles: The Astatic Metro 788, A Striking Model From The 1950s
A dynamic design that “has a wide range for voice and music reproduction in PA, recording and TV.”
March 1, 2022
Microfiles: The AIWA DM-51, Reflecting The Design Ethos & Styling Of The 1970s
An omnidirectional dynamic model that while more traditional looking than many earlier Art Deco designs still has a “mid-century modern look” all its own.
January 24, 2022