Neumann/Gefell CMV 563 with M7s & M55k Capsules

Overview

Exceptional 1950s Neumann/Gefell CMV 563 valve microphone system with original M7s and M55k capsules and extensive specialist restoration history.

This is not simply a CMV 563 body assembled with miscellaneous modern parts. It is a carefully maintained professional system that has been restored and serviced by highly regarded specialists in vintage microphones.

The CMV 563 itself was restored by the late Andreas Grosser and fitted with a NOS transformer. The original M7s capsule was professionally reskinned by Siegfried Thiersch and subsequently re-voiced by Gunter Wagner.

I’ve owned this microphone as part of my own professional collection and am selling it only as part of a wider studio downsizing and shift towards post-production monitoring.

Sonically, it has the rich, dimensional valve presentation for which well-maintained CMV 563/M7 systems remain so desirable.

Given the age and value of the system, I’ve tried to document its condition and provenance as thoroughly as possible. I’m very happy to answer detailed questions or provide additional photographs for serious buyers.

Restoration & Provenance

The history of specialist work on this microphone is an important part of this particular example:

• Full restoration by Andreas Grosser (circa 2010), including installation of a new old stock (NOS) transformer
• Original M7s capsule professionally reskinned by Siegfried Thiersch
• M7s subsequently re-voiced by Gunter Wagner in Australia in 2016

Rather than being patched together over the years, the microphone and capsule have received specialist, considered attention when required.

What’s Included

• CMV 563 microphone body (Type CMV 563, Serial No. 9647)
• Original M7s capsule (Serial No. 005) — reskinned by Thiersch and re-voiced by Wagner
• Original M55k omni capsule (directional at high frequencies, Serial No. 5709)
• Spare EF86 valve
• Original microphone holder
• Original body screw cover and accessories
• Original 1950s capsule box
• Original 1950s microphone body box
• HPRC hard case with custom foam — the primary protective case for the complete system

The original boxes are understandably delicate after more than six decades and are included for their historical and collector interest rather than as primary protective packaging. The HPRC case provides secure storage and transport for the microphone and accessories.

Condition

Very good condition for a microphone system dating from the 1950s.

The microphone body shows honest age-related patina, as would be expected, but remains structurally sound and presents very well. The M7s performs beautifully following the specialist Thiersch and Wagner work.

Please examine the photographs carefully as they form part of the description. I’m also happy to provide additional detailed photographs on request.

Shipping

This microphone will be packed with exceptional care. The complete system will travel inside its HPRC hard case, which will itself be securely double-boxed with substantial protective packaging.

Shipping will be fully insured to the sale value, and the packing process will be photographed before dispatch.

Ships from the Canary Islands, Spain (outside the EU VAT area — buyers should check any applicable import taxes or charges for their destination).

DHL only. FedEx limits liability for certain vintage instruments over 20 years old and is therefore not appropriate for this shipment.

Estimated fully insured shipping cost to the UK or mainland Europe: approximately €180–€190. Final shipping cost will be confirmed based on the buyer’s destination.