Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome. 

You are looking at a classic 1960's Shure Brothers 55S model dynamic cardioid microphone with a smooth warm tone making this one of the best dynamic cardioid mics of it's time and it still sounds incredible even today compared to most newer models being sold. This particular model came with the early 60's era black silk screens and rectangular silver Shure badge.   Shure Brothers changed the design of the 55S in 1961. Previously it had blue silk screens and a royal blue Shure badge but they gave it the black silk screen to change the look of the mic in 1960 and around 1964 they converted to black foam until the mic was discontinued around 1969. 

 This mic comes with the original long cable and vintage case in which to store everything.

 Pic # 2 shows this very model as well as the 556S model from that era and it's basic characteristics.

 Pic # 3 shows a young Elvis performing live with the 55S model mic.

 Shure Brothers was trying to go with a an edgier mid century look while still retaining the infamous look of the mic when the 55S model changed slightly in 1960. The actual head of the mic never changed over the 30 year run...just the lower pistol grip. It should be noted that I had to professionally replace the inner shock mounts to secure the loose inner element. This is a common problem and any older 55S with original shock mounts will need to be replaced as they help greatly with sound characteristics. Do not attempt to do this unless you properly ground the mic as static electricity will damage or destroy that element. You can ruin a 55S quickly if you don't know what you're doing. I learned the hard way many years ago folks. :) Don't ruin a good 55S.

 This legendary microphone was used by many famous artists and politicians over the years including Elvis Presley and even the young revolutionary Fidel Castro. Those clean lines and deco styling make this mic stand out from all the others produced over the last century. Made in Evanston, IL U.S.A. This mic is a nice piece of midcentury Americana.

 It should be noted that this mic has an excellent working dynamic cardioid element with strong output and works perfectly on low and medium and high setting. Many of these older mics barely work at all or lack the bass associated with a good working 55S. This one was well taken care of over the decades as it sounds very nice. A warm smooth tone that makes it perfect for singing and broadcasting. The mic has just a bit of warm bass to it. Very nice sounding with a strong clean signal. The uni-directional characteristics on these mics are outstanding drowning out almost all background noise. 

 As seen in the pictures provided this mic the satin chrome shows virtually no cosmetic wear and the finish has a very nice luster. Just a few scuff marks here and there. There are zero bent or fractured ribs on this mic and was very well taken care of. No holes or rip in the black silk screens and it's free of unwanted odors. The Shure label looks very nice as well. Overall this mic is a very conservative 8 on a scale of 1 - 10. This mic is solid...no loose parts inside or out.

 The threads for the cable are excellent and the joint mechanism holds strong. The threading for the stand is perfect as well and this will screw onto any desk or floor stand you wish to use.

 The mic comes with an original Shure model cable that's appx 15 feet in length giving you plenty of room for studio and stage work. Soft, pliable and free of damage. It comes with a quality male XLR end connector so you can use this mic with most modern and some older audio equipment.

 Also, a very beautiful vintage mic case. It has a nice brown marble vinyl exterior that looks incredible and it will protect the mic keeping it safe and snug inside. The case is appx 15 inches wide X 11 1/2 inches deep X 3 inches tall and has two new foam pads inside.

 The case also has a practical carrying handle and two locking mechanisms to keep it firmly shut. It's a very nice accessory to have for this precious mic and will come in handy for transporting. The case shows virtually no wear.

  A very cool package deal all around. If you demand a great working daily 55S then this will be a fun mic to use. 

 MICROPHONE STAND SHOWN IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY.

           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 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 an unpaid case will be open and item relisted. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.

  If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.

Listed5 months ago
ConditionExcellent (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
Brand
Model
  • 55S Unidyne Microphone
Finish
  • Metal
Categories
Year
  • 1956
Made In
  • United States
Microphone Type
  • Dynamic
Wired/Wireless
  • Wired
Electronics
  • Analog
  • Solid State
Polar Pattern
  • Cardioid

Product safety information may be available here.

The House of Chrome

Escondido, CA, United States
Joined Reverb:2018

Reverb Protection

Simple Returns, Secure Transactions, Human Support

Learn more

Secure Checkout

Promoted similar listings













Product reviews

Reverb Gives

Your purchases help youth music programs get the gear they need to make music.

Oops, looks like you forgot something. Please check the fields highlighted in red.