Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
You are looking at a very nice early 1960's Shure Brothers 55SW model dynamic cardioid microphone based on the similar 55S of that time. The 55S series mic was introduced in 1951 and was the smaller version of the 55 "Fatboy" sold during the 1940's. The 55 was discontinued in 1950 and the 55S model took it's place. The 55S was sold until the late 1970's until it evolved into the 55SH and was then discontinued. It had a long run and was one of the most successful models sold from Shure Brothers. It comes with a period cable in which to operate.
The 55SW model was the upgrade variant of the 55S as it had the practical on off switch and was the first of the 55S series to incorporate an on / off switch.
In 1960 Shure Brothers changed the look of the 55S while introducing the 55SW. Shure phased out the silk blue screens that year and the 55S and 55SW were sold with black silk screens only until about 1964 or 1965.
Pic # 2 shows this very model and all of it's basic characteristics.
Pic # 3 shows a younger Elvis using a 55S model mic while performing live.
It should be noted right away that the mic itself is 100% complete and the original element is in excellent working order on all 3 settings (high, med & low impedance). This will be a great mic to use while singing or broadcasting as it was intended. It has just the right amount of bass with a smooth tone. The mic is bright in nature and will be very fun to use for singing and broadcasting as it was designed.
As you can see the satin chrome shows almost no cosmetic wear. there is a slight blemish just below the front grill on the neck but otherwise the mic is fantastic. The mic has a gorgeous luster still after 60 + years of use. There are zero bent or fractured ribs on this mic. The black silk screens are incredible. Free of any rips or holes. The Shure label shows no wear and completely legible. This mic is solid...no loose parts inside or out.
I take the time to secure the inner element as it's held in place with 3 shock mounts that wear out with age. The mic needs to be properly grounded to do so as the element is very sensitive to static shock and you can ruin the mic if that's not done. I come a cross a lot of these mics where somebody attempted to do so and ruined the element. If you don't have any experience let somebody do it that does.
The threads for the cable are excellent and the joint mechanism holds strong. The threading for the stand is perfect as well and this will screw onto any desk or floor stand you wish to use.
The mic also comes with the original longer 18 foot cable and it's in very nice physical and working condition. Soft, pliable and free of any cracks or dry rot. I applied the Switchcraft male 1/4 inch end connector as the original plastic one was beat up pretty good. You can use this on most modern audio equipment and all guitar amplifiers. No grounding issues.
If you need a period desk or floor stand for this mic just ask and I'll show you what's available to choose from.
Again, very nice physical condition. This is a mic that will go up greatly in value as the years go by and a real conversation piece.
MICROPHONE STAND SHOWN IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY.
As with all my vintage microphones...
I can promise you will be happy with it for the price paid. If not...I have a no hassle return policy. The shipping will be on you as I believe that's fair but the purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS are welcome as well. Buyer must pay within 24 hours or an unpaid case will be open and item relisted. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.
| Listed | 5 days ago |
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| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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