niki small dynamic Late 1950s–Early 1960s - XLR

Niki (W ba) – West German Industrial Dynamic Microphone – Converted to XLR

built for communication. This compact Niki dynamic microphone originates from West Germany’s post-war industrial and broadcast environment, where reliability and speech intelligibility mattered more than extended bandwidth. Originally designed for paging, desk communication, and control-room use, it now finds a second life as a characterful studio tool.

Small and solid, this is the kind of microphone that just has vibe

OPTICAL CONDITION

Good vintage condition.
The red phenolic housing shows visible surface marks and scratches consistent with age and professional use. Brass grille is intact and straight, with natural patina. Logos and markings remain clearly legible.

TECHNICAL CONDITION

Fully functional

Converted to standard XLR 

BUILD & DESIGN

Originally part of fixed installations or arm-mounted systems, these microphones were engineered for durability, clarity, and long-term service.

• Type: Dynamic (moving-coil)
• Housing: Phenolic / early industrial plastic
• Grille: Fine brass mesh
• Form factor: Ultra-compact desk / palm microphone
• Origin: West Germany
• Era: Late 1950s – early 1960s
• Connector: Converted to XLR

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

~350 Hz – 8,000 / 9,000 Hz

• Strong midrange presence
• Rolled-off lows and highs by design
• Excellent speech intelligibility
• Natural compression when driven

(Estimated based on practical testing)

SOUND CHARACTERISTICS

Mid-forward, focused, and intentionally bandwidth-limited.
This microphone shines on:

• Talkback and control-room use
• Lo-fi or effect vocals
• Guitar amps for gritty textures
• Sound design and experimental recording

Not a hi-fi microphone — but a purpose-built tone tool with unmistakable character. Love this item? Explore more! Check out our store for more amazing Microphones. You might discover a new favourite mic!