RUFA CARDIOID CRYSTAL MICROPHONE 1960S - XLR

A mic from RUFA, a German manufacturer active during the 1950s and 1960s, producing microphones primarily for tape recorders and recording applications. Like many crystal microphones of the era, it offers a condenser-like sensitivity and reach while remaining completely passive, requiring no external power. This design allows it to capture fine detail and high-frequency information with remarkable clarity, giving it a uniquely articulate and present sound signature.

OPTICAL CONDITION

Very good used condition.

The plastic housing is clean and well preserved, with only minor signs of age. The surface finish remains intact, and the microphone presents overall in very well-maintained original condition.

TECHNICAL CONDITION

Fully functional.

• Crystal capsule operational
• Converted to standard XLR connector

The microphone has been tested and performs reliably, with output and moderate self noise consistent with crystal capsule technology.

BUILD & DESIGN

The microphone features a lightweight molded plastic housing typical of German microphones from this era. square from the front and triangular in profile — allows the microphone to rest naturally on flat surfaces without requiring a stand. The original design remains fully intact and visually striking. It has been professionally converted to XLR, ensuring compatibility with modern recording equipment.

Capsule
This microphone uses a crystal capsule based on piezoelectric transducer technology. Crystal capsules generate signal directly from diaphragm movement

This design allows extremely fast transient response and condenser-like sensitivity, particularly in the upper frequency range.

Circuit
Passive piezoelectric crystal transducer. No external power required.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Crystal microphone
Polar Pattern: cardioid
Frequency Response (estimated): 350 Hz – 10,000 Hz
Mounting: Self-standing housing design
Output: Balanced

SOUND CHARACTERISTICS

This microphone delivers a highly articulate and sparkly tonal character, with exceptional clarity in the upper frequency range.

A noticeable presence boost around approximately 4 kHz gives the microphone a bell-like brilliance, enhancing intelligibility and detail. High frequencies are open and precise, capturing subtle textures clearly.

Low-frequency response is limited, with usable pickup beginning primarily in the mid-low range. The overall sound is lean, focused, and highly detailed rather than warm.

Its condenser-like reach allows it to capture distant or subtle sound sources more easily than most dynamic microphones, while adding the distinctive tonal character of crystal transducer technology.

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

Estimated Frequency Response: 350 Hz – 10,000 Hz

• Presence boost around 4 kHz
• Highly detailed and sparkly high end
• Limited bass and sub-bass response
• Fast and precise transient behavior

SUMMARY

This RUFA crystal microphone represents a classic example of mid-century German crystal microphone engineering, offering passive operation combined with condenser-like sensitivity and a uniquely detailed sonic character.

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