Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
You are looking at a very unique and somewhat rare Astatic model K-2 crystal microphone from the 1950's that comes with the period Astatic F-11 adapter as well in which to operate. This interesting looking microphone was originally an entry lever model for somebody who needed something reliable and cheap in which to record or for general broadcasting purposes. These were popular with HAM radio operators as well.
Pic # 2 is from my late 1940's era Astatic catalog that shows the mics specs of the K-2 model mic. You don't come across this model very often and she's a real gem. It should be noted that the mic was tested and the original crystal element no longer worked so I took liberties to remove the element and install a quality Shure dynamic element that makes this mic good to go. It's a strong 533SA element and basically sounds like a crystal element on steroids. It's omni-directional as well just like a crystal element.
This is a very light weight mic that's smaller and easy to hold. You angle it just right and get a strong signal and crazy good overdrive so if you are a harp player and need something special for that harmonica...this mic will not disappoint. A dirty, gritty sound. Very "rockabilly" in nature.
The K-2 was manufactured by Astatic in Youngstown, Ohio and has a beautiful industrial flair to it making it different from almost any other microphone made in the past century. The top of the mic shows it's model type and it's very legible. The polished chrome body is free of any deep scratches, corrosion or dents. Very lite scratches only and pretty much on top of the mic. I installed a new inner black foam pop filter. There are no odors, tarnish or dents on the mics screen. I would rate the cosmetic condition a very conservative 8 + out of 1 - 10.
The mics F-11 adapter is just as nice and comes with a 5 foot Belden 8401 model cable. The cable is soft, pliable and in great working condition. I rebuilt this cable myself so it will last for decades to come. These F-11's are usually in rough shape wiring wise so it's always good to rebuild them from top to bottom. The cable has a quality male 1/4 inch end connector for use with most audio equipment and all guitar amplifiers.
You'll need the F-11 adapter to screw the mic onto any microphone desk or floor stand you have.
MICROPHONE STAND SHOWN IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...USED FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY.
As with all my vintage microphones for sale...
I can promise you will be happy with it for the price paid. If not...I have a no hassle return policy. The return shipping will be on you as I believe that's fair but the purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. International buyers are welcome as well. BUYER MUST PAY WITHIN 24 HOURS or will lose rights to this item, unpaid item report will be filed and will be relisted. If you don't intend on buying this...do not commit to buy please. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.
| Listed | 5 years ago |
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| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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