Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
You are looking at a rare find that almost never comes around. This is a quality 1st generation dynamic microphone manufactured by Electro Voice during the early 1950's to late 1950's and sold under license to RCA Radio Corporation. This 636 model mic was first manufactured in the early 1950's but the 2nd generation 636 was made well into the late 1960's. This 1st gen 636 comes with the newer cast iron desk stand shown as well as the short Belden 8422 cable in which to operate.
I have only ever seen two of these 636 variant mics before. It was quite common for Electro Voice and Shure to sell many of their mics to other brand name mic manufacturers. The 636 was also sold via The DuKane Corporation but the RCA version is very rare. I believe this RCA model was called the SK-39 but you'll see that the label on the mic is very well worn. If any of you can refresh my memory so that I can properly label this mic it would be greatly appreciated. It's been about 8 years since I last saw an RCA 636 variant. Anyways, this RCA mic has been cleaned and tested and has a strong 100% output with zero issues.
The 636 was a rugged affordable dynamic microphone that generally held up very well over the decades and was used for a wide variety of purposes.
Pic # 2 shows this very 1st generation mic in a 1950's E.V catalog along with quite a few other models.
In pic # 3 you'll see Richie Valens using one of these at a live performance. These were pretty decent sounding mics back in their day and still sound very nice even 70 years later.
It should be noted that this 636 has an omni-directional element in the hi Z setting. If you have never used one of these mics before in the Hi Z setting this was ideal for a HAM radio with Hi Z inputs. The tone of the mic is very "rockabilly" being void of bass. Very bright and clear. It could be used for sing and great if you want that old school sound. This can be used for general broadcasting and recording.
If you want a 636 with touch of bass then the Low Z setting is the way to go. This mic won't work with a Low Z set 4 pin cable as the mic itself is factory set at Hi Z. You'd have to get inside the mic to switch that and that my friend is a major piece of work to do. Just but a Low Z 636 if that's what you are looking for.
The on / off switch and joint mechanism work just fine.
The polished chrome housing has held up very well with a minimum of cosmetic wear. Just some tiny scratches and scuff marks but zero corrosion or pitting as seen in the pics provided it has an impressive luster. There are zero dents on this old girl. The threads for both the cable and stand are in perfect condition...no issues. I would rate this mic a conservative 8 + on a scale of 1 - 10 physically speaking.
The 4 pin cable is included and it's just 7 inches long. It's soft, pliable and it's a Belden 8422 model with the male Switchcraft end connector. Simply leave the short cable on the mic at all times then attach any longer XLR cable of choice to operate the mic. It's a practical set up. I built the cable myself so it should last at least 50 years.
MICROPHONE STAND SHOWN IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...USED FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY.
If you need a period stand for the mic please just ask and I'll send you several links of what I have.
If you need something exotic to use on the daily or just something to show off in the vintage mic collection...look no further.
As with all my vintage microphones...
I can promise you will be happy with it for the price paid. If not...I have a no hassle return policy. The shipping will be on you as I believe that's fair but the original purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS ARE WELCOME as well. I have had problems recently collecting on payment for items sold so PLEASE do not purchase this item unless you are capable of paying within 24 hours. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.
| Listed | 5 months 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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