This is one of the only known fully working Sony C19b microphones in existence, and it is in exceptional condition inside and out. Direct from Russian Recording’s working mic locker, this small-diaphragm tube condenser from the late 1950s remains a complete, fully original set with its matching CP2 power supply, cable, mount, and fitted wooden case.

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Sony C19b (Late 1950s)
Extremely rare small-diaphragm tube condenser with CP2 power supply and original case

The Sony C19b is an impossibly rare small-diaphragm tube condenser microphone manufactured for a short period in the late 1950s, and as far as we know, this is the only example ever to reach the market. It is an omnidirectional side-address design using a 20 mm gold-sputtered diaphragm that feeds a 6AU6 tube in a cathode follower circuit, the same configuration found in the Sony C37a. Power is supplied by the CP2 power supply, which houses the large output transformer and allows the microphone body to remain remarkably compact. This is the same PSU used on early “old-logo” era C37a microphones before being replaced by the more common CP3 and CP3b.

In essence, the C19b is a C37a with a small-diaphragm omni capsule, and it sounds every bit as refined as that comparison suggests. One of its most charming design details is the highly ergonomic swivel mount connector that showcases Sony’s exceptional engineering of the era.

This particular example is a complete, museum-grade original set. It remains in impeccable, like-new condition and includes every original component:

Included:
• Original Sony C19b Microphone
• Original CP2 Power Supply (near-mint)
• Original Sony C19b wooden suitcase and fitted mic case
• Original cable
• Original machined swivel stand mount

We’ve used this microphone with great success as a room mic, as the mid mic in an M/S configuration, and on a variety of acoustic instruments. We’ve yet to try it on vocals, but it would likely excel there as well.

If you’d like to hear the C19b in use, we can share the original recording session, including stems, unprocessed mixes, and a final mix.

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SERVICE AND BACKGROUND

This microphone has been fully serviced, inspected, tested, and verified to perform to original specifications.

At Russian Recording and Soviet American Audio Systems (SAAS Vintage), we specialize in sourcing, restoring, and preserving rare and obscure recording equipment from the Soviet Union, Japan, and beyond. Every microphone is bench-tested before shipping, and every stage of packing is photographed for transparency and documentation.

With over two decades of experience researching and restoring hundreds of rare microphones, Mike Bridavsky founded Soviet American Audio Systems (SAAS) to provide accurate information and make reliable, functional examples of historically important microphones available to other engineers.

Soviet American Audio Systems (SAAS Vintage) and Russian Recording have supplied restored and hard-to-find equipment to engineers and artists worldwide, including Sylvia Massy, John Congleton, Ben Baptie, Jonathan Rado, Sufjan Stevens, Kenny Beats, Wayne Sermon (Imagine Dragons), D.A. Got That Dope, and others.

We can provide detailed photos, audio samples, or video demonstrations upon request and are happy to answer any technical questions in full detail.

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SHIPPING
• Domestic U.S. shipping included.
• International shipping calculated by destination.
• All international shipments declared at full value; buyer pays duties and taxes.

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CONDITION AND POLICY

These are vintage microphones, typically between 30 and 80 years old. Although serviced and tested for full functionality, all vintage equipment will eventually require maintenance.

All sales are final unless the microphone is non-functional within three days of delivery.

Ships securely from Russian Recording in Bloomington, Indiana.