Overview

Exceptional 1950s Neumann/Gefell CMV 563 valve microphone system with M7S and M55K capsule heads, professionally restored and maintained by some of the most respected specialists in vintage microphones.

The microphone underwent extensive restoration by the late Andreas Grosser in Germany, with subsequent capsule work by Siegfried Thiersch and comprehensive servicing by Günter Wagner in Australia.

This is a carefully maintained professional system with a documented technical history, rather than an unrestored vintage example of uncertain condition.

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

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

Comparative recordings made in 2025 alongside other microphones are available to interested buyers, together with Wagner's detailed technical report and service invoice.

Restoration & Provenance

Andreas Grosser — Extensive Restoration

The CMV 563 underwent extensive restoration by Andreas Grosser in Germany, including replacement of the internal electronic components and a complete rebuild of the power supply with a modern, stabilised low-noise circuit.

The original output transformer was also replaced during this restoration.

When I purchased the microphone from Madooma Microphones in Germany, approximately 2012–2013, I was informed that Grosser had arranged for a replacement transformer to be specially manufactured to original Gefell specifications. I no longer have documentation confirming the manufacturing details.

During his subsequent inspection in 2016, Günter Wagner noted that the replacement transformer was physically smaller than the original. Although he could not identify its exact specifications, his measurements confirmed that the amplifier's frequency response, noise and distortion were within specification.

Wagner described Grosser's restoration workmanship as excellent and very professional.

M7S Capsule — Thiersch Work

According to Wagner's technical assessment, the M7S contains either a Thiersch-manufactured M7 capsule or an original Gefell M7 re-diaphragmed by Thiersch.

He was unable to establish which, and the diaphragm material (PVC Blue Line or Mylar Red Line) has not been independently verified.

Wagner also identified a non-original or modified adapter section on the M7S head, although he considered the internal capsule assembly to appear largely original.

M55K Capsule — Thiersch Re-Diaphragm

The M55K is an original capsule head whose internal capsule was re-diaphragmed by Thiersch.

Wagner confirmed that the M55K performed to its original specifications.

Günter Wagner — Inspection, Repairs and Service, 2016

In January 2016, Günter Wagner inspected and serviced the microphone and both capsule heads in Australia.

All remedial work identified during his inspection was subsequently completed, including addressing low-frequency rumble in the M7S capsule and repairing the damaged connector thread.

Wagner also supplied a new microphone cable.

His detailed technical report and service invoice are available on request. The original invoices for the earlier Grosser and Thiersch work are not available.

What's Included

• CMV 563 microphone body (Type CMV 563, Serial No. 9647)
• M7S cardioid capsule head (Serial No. 005) — Thiersch-manufactured or Thiersch re-diaphragmed M7, as identified by Günter Wagner
• Original M55K capsule head (Serial No. 5709) — re-diaphragmed by Thiersch
• Power supply, extensively rebuilt during the earlier Andreas Grosser restoration
• Replacement microphone cable supplied by Günter Wagner in 2016
• Spare EF86 valve
• Original microphone holder
• Original body screw cover and accessories
• Original 1950s capsule box
• Original 1950s microphone body box
• HPRC hard case for secure storage and transport of 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.

Condition

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

The microphone body shows honest age-related patina, as expected, but remains structurally sound and presents very well.

The microphone and capsule heads received comprehensive professional servicing by Günter Wagner in 2016, with all identified issues addressed.

Please examine the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Wagner's technical report includes photographs of the microphone's internal amplifier circuitry and replacement output transformer. Close-up photographs of the M7S diaphragm surface and the interior of the power supply are not currently available.

Additional photographs, the service documentation and comparative audio recordings are available to interested buyers.

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.

UPS is my preferred courier, subject to confirmation of suitable insurance coverage for the full sale value. The packing process will be photographed before dispatch.

The microphone is located in the Canary Islands, Spain, which are outside the EU VAT area. Buyers should check any applicable import duties, taxes or customs clearance charges for their destination.

Shipping from mainland Spain may also be possible by prior arrangement, depending on logistics and availability, but cannot be guaranteed. Please contact me before purchasing if this would be important for your delivery.

Estimated shipping cost to the UK or mainland Europe: approximately €180–€190, subject to destination, insurance and current courier rates. The final cost will be confirmed before dispatch.