Beautiful Manley Reference Gold microphone that can be the centerpiece of a vocal studio. In excellent working order. I upgraded the mic with an NOS Mullard M8162 (12AT7 equivalent), which is extremely low noise and pleasantly warm while retaining the open top end from the Josephson capsule. This mic is ready to record.

Note: The -10DB Pad switch tip was smacked in the case and came off, but still functions with a small screwdriver to adjust. Replacement switch included in case and a mic technician can replace it.

From Manley:

Manley Reference Gold, zero-compromise tube mic, second to none

The Manley Reference Gold Mic represents the pinnacle of large-diaphragm tube microphone design, combining proprietary capsule technology with continuously variable polar pattern control for unparalleled versatility. Hand-assembled in California with an all-tube triode signal path, this microphone delivers exceptional transient response and tonal accuracy across all source material. Engineered to capture acoustic reality with minimal coloration, the Reference Gold provides the transparency and detail resolution demanded by world-class recording and mastering applications. Your vocals and acoustic instruments have never sounded this real!

Continuously variable pattern control for total acoustic command

The Reference Gold features seamless polar pattern adjustment, from Omni-directional through Cardioid to Figure-of-8. Every intermediate position is accessible via continuous control. This comprehensive pattern flexibility enables precise optimization of off-axis rejection, proximity effect, and room interaction for any source or acoustic environment. The ability to fine-tune polar response in real-time provides engineers with complete control over sonic character and spatial imaging during critical recording sessions. It's an expensive microphone, but it will improve the audio quality of any recording studio for decades to come! 

Proprietary capsule design with precision-tensioned gold diaphragm

At the core of the Reference Gold is a meticulously crafted one-inch capsule featuring a 24-karat gold-sputtered diaphragm, tensioned using proprietary techniques developed by David Josephson. The microphone body is precision-machined from solid brass with 24-karat gold plating, ensuring both optimal acoustic properties and exceptional build integrity. This attention to mechanical and acoustic detail ensures consistent performance and long-term stability under demanding professional conditions.

High-voltage tube sound for exceptional dynamic range

The Reference Gold employs an all-tube triode circuit operating at high voltage, delivering an astounding 150 dB maximum SPL capability, with exceptionally low noise and wide dynamic range. Powered by the Manley Power supply, the Reference Gold provides pristine output with extended headroom and minimal distortion across the full audio spectrum. This combination of tube amplification and premium capsule technology yields an open, transparent, and dimensionally accurate representation of any vocal or acoustic source.