The Manley Gold Reference Multi-Pattern Microphones are a statement, quite simply, of the finest microphones that money can buy in the pursuit of truly accurate musical recordings. The Gold Reference Series employs Manley's own design of large capsules (1.25 inch overall, 1 inch diaphragm diameter), executed to precise tolerances made possible by modern micro-milling machinery available today in California. The capsule rings and back-plates are milled from solid brass. The gold diaphragm film comes from Germany and is tensioned using proprietary techniques by David Josephson ensuring capsule-to-capsule constancy, combined with an ultra-high frequency response you have only dreamt about.

The all-tube electronics in the Manley Reference Series Microphones are built around two triodes in cascade forming an entire gain-block. Manley have recently switched to a dual-triode 12AX7WA, easily obtainable and replaceable, mounted in a ceramic socket. (Manley used to use 6072A until it became impossible to find quiet ones out of the NOS dreck left on the market.) The output is coupled through a Manley output transformer of unparalleled quality and substantial physical size employing nickel laminations with hum bucking, bi-filar windings, encased in mu-metal. The polar pattern control is continuously variable between the OMNI, CARDIOID, and FIGURE 8 positions vastly increasing this microphones versatility. The Gold Mics make it possible to exactly tailor the proximity effect to achieve the desired character.

Manley have chosen a very open weave stainless-steel grille for the capsule window which allows all the highs to reach the capsule unimpaired letting the engineer choose if, when, and how much pop screen is appropriate. As a result, the Manley Reference Gold Microphone reaches to the furthest extremes of highs and lows with gorgeous natural acoustic smoothness. The base of the microphone holds a locking 3 pin gold XLR connector for the audio signal output to allow you to use whatever audio cable you prefer. A detachable threaded 4-pin connector for the 30 foot power supply cable carries the stringently filtered B+ and regulated heater voltages from the separate dedicated power supply. The microphone body is machined from brass providing excellent shielding properties, polished to a high lustre, then plated with 24 karat gold for an impressive finish, inspiring confidence in artists and producers.

The Manley precision suspension system is provided with each Reference Microphone (the capsule itself is mounted onto a neoprene-rubber shock-mount.) Because the entire working guts of the microphone may be removed for service in one piece from the housing, it is envisioned that the microphone need not be removed from the suspension. Manley also provide a very useful swivel design with every Reference Microphone; its T-bar handle and locking clutch action require no tools to adjust. And no Manley microphone would be complete without a genuine leather capsule protector with soft velour lining which slips (and ties) onto the end of the microphone to protect the capsule when not in use.

Each Reference Microphone is packaged complete in a strong locking carrying-case.

Features:

• Continuously Variable Polar Pattern
• All-Tube triode design
• -10 dB switchable pad
• Frequency response: 10Hz - 30KHz
• Low Noise - typically - 120dB EIN
• High Max SPL: 150dB

Specifications:

• Microphone type: Dual large diaphragm capacitor
• Polar patterns: Continuously Variable
• Diaphragm size: 1 inch ; 1.25 inch overall
• Diaphragm thickness: 3 micron; gold sputtered
• Frequency response 10 hz to 30 khz, amplifier to 60 khz
• Maximum input spl: 150 dbspl at capsule
• Sensitivity: 19mv/pa
• Amplifier type: 2 triode gain block lo z output
• Active components 1) 12ax7lps tube (2 for stereo mics)
• Output type : transformer with feedback loop
• Output polarity: balanced xlr, pin 2 hot, pin 3 low
• Amplifier distortion: less than .05 %
• Amplifier noise: typically -120 db ein (tube dependent)
• Body: 24 karat gold over machined brass