Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
You are looking at an uber rare and obscure Turner TC-5 model crystal microphone from the 1930's that comes with an original period desk stand in which to display.
I have never even seen the Turner TC-5 model mic until now. This is probably one of the top 3 rarest Turner mic ever made and the mic doesn't even come with a label like many mics did. I only know of it's existence from an old Turner catalog I have as seen in pic # 2 with some basic info on this model. I'm assuming it was a very low production mic. It's extremely rare. If you are a collector of such unique early American models then you won't want to let this one pass you by.
When Turner first started as a company they offered a handful of mic models that you just don't around today. The TC-5 is one of those. The TC-5 actually incorporates a Brush model crystal element as seen in pic # 3. Brush sold their elements to several American companies under contract. The mic has been tested but no longer works as to be expected from a 95 year old microphone. Hard to believe it's that old.
The TC-5 was a mic that could either be mounted to a desk stand like the one provided or it could be suspended by 4 springs. You'll notice that there are 4 threaded holes on the bezel of the mic giving the user that option but this one was sold with the stand.
It should be noted that this mic is not 100% original. I did have to replace the cable as the original cable was absolutely falling apart. The new cable is soft, pliable and wired correctly in case you ever want to replace the element with a working example but due to rarity and condition i would leave the mic be for value purposes.
This mic was originally sold for basic broadcasting purposes. Because this TC-5 no longer works so this should be used for display, prop or repair purposes only.
The TC-5 is an all metal design with a polished chrome finish finish and has the classic "lollipop" design. The element is a high impedance omni-directional type. It comes with the original lower swivel that allowed the user to tilt the head in any direction needed and the swivel works perfectly.
The TC-5 itself shows typical lite wear on the chrome. The font screen and inner pop filter look great. Everything inside is tight. No loose parts. It's far from perfect again, 95 years old so not bad considering.
The mic head with swivel is appx 4 1/2 inches tall X 3 inches wide X 1 inch deep.
The newer cable is appx 14 inches long and properly wired. It runs down the riser of the stand and has the Switchcraft female 1/4 inch end connector.
The stand that is included is which is a very rare 1930's era American model microphone desk stand. I'm not sure if it's a Turner design but it was sold with the mic and the exact same model as seen in pic # 2. It has the deco 3 tier "waterfall" design with polished chrome finish.
It's got some weight to it and it really compliments the TC-5. It's actually just a bit nicer than the microphone. Just very lite wear on the chrome base cover but the riser is perfect. Zero dents, pitting or fractures.
The 3 bottom felt pads are still present but worn.
With the mic and stand it's appx 12 inches tall X 5 1/2 inches wide.
This TC-5 will make a great conversation piece anywhere it's used or sits in the home, studio or office. If you demand ultra rare...the TC-5 is that mic. I doubt we'll see another example of these for many years to come.
And as with all my items...
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 opened due to too many unpaid mics lately. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.
| Listed | a month ago |
|---|---|
| Condition | Non Functioning (Used) Non-functioning items do not work as they should. All known issues should be described in the listing description.Learn more |
| Brand | |
| Model |
|
| Finish |
|
| Categories | |
| Year |
|
| Made In |
|
Product safety information may be available here.

























