Aiwa VM-17B Pair Vintage Ribbon mic w/case

Aiwa VM-17B Pair | Bidirectional Ribbon Microphones | Excellent Condition w/ Case

This listing is for a pair of Aiwa VM-17B bidirectional ribbon microphones.
Both units are in excellent condition with minimal signs of use. The sound characteristics of the two microphones are well-matched, making them ideal for use as overhead mics or room mics.
The set includes the original carrying case and a Japanese-language manual.

■ Shipping Information

Shipping will be handled via EMS or UPS.
The item will be securely packaged for international delivery. In most cases, it is expected to arrive within 7 to 20 days after dispatch; however, delivery times may vary depending on the destination and local conditions.
If your country is not listed as available for shipping, feel free to contact us to confirm availability.

Please note: Any customs duties, taxes, or import fees are the buyer's responsibility. As regulations vary by country, we recommend checking with your local customs office for details.
If the buyer refuses to accept the item for any reason, the buyer will be responsible for return shipping costs and any associated handling fees.

■ Manual (English Transcription)

The following is an English transcription of the original Japanese manual included with the microphones.
It provides detailed background on the product's design, features, and specifications.

VM-17B is a bidirectional ribbon microphone designed for speech use at radio broadcasting stations, developed with the cooperation of commercial FM stations including FM Tokyo.
The front and rear polar patterns are perfectly matched, and the frequency response is carefully adjusted to be flat without peaks or dips even in the high-frequency range, fully meeting the requirements for announcer studios and similar environments.
The soft, rich, and clear tone, which can only be achieved with a ribbon microphone, will surely satisfy your expectations.

Features

• Bidirectional ribbon microphone with exceptionally well-matched front and rear polar patterns
• Designed for symmetrical performance between the front and rear polar patterns
• Flat frequency response with excellent directionality, reducing the risk of feedback
• Underwent rigorous drop and vibration tests rarely conducted for ribbon microphones
    - Withstood six natural drops from 75 cm in its case without affecting sound quality
    - Endured vibration testing (3–1500 CPM, 20 minutes in each direction, total 60 minutes) without issue
• Equipped with a hum-free wound internal transformer and a high-quality shielded case to minimize magnetic induction noise
• Offers excellent stability in varying temperatures and humidity conditions
• Built-in 5-step low-frequency cut switch designed for speech applications
• Shock-absorbing rubber mount minimizes vibration transmission from floors or stands
• Finished with matte plating and dark brown metallic paint to reduce visual fatigue

Specifications

• Type: Ribbon Microphone
• Polar Pattern: Bidirectional
• Impedance: 600 Ω
• Sensitivity:
    -52 dB ±2 dB (0 dB = 1 V/Pa, 1 kHz, open circuit)
    -72 dB ±2 dB (0 dB = 1 V/μbar, 1 kHz, open circuit)
• Frequency Response: 30–12,500 Hz
• Minimum Load Impedance: 6 kΩ
• Tone Control: 5-step low cut (reference position: switch setting 0, see manual Table 1)
• Induced Noise: 5 dB or less (measured by BTS method)
• Max Input Sound Pressure Level: 140 dB SPL or higher
• Operating Temperature Range: -10°C to 60°C
• Output Connector: Bare wire leads
• Pin Assignment: Pins 2 + 3 = Signal, Pin 1 = Ground
• Dimensions: ⌀52 mm (maximum diameter) × 265 mm (height)
• Weight: 980 g
• Cable: ⌀5 mm SCR noise-resistant cable, 7.5 m long
• Finish: Nickel matte plating and dark brown metallic paint
• Accessories: Carrying case