REFURBISHED - VINTAGE - Uher 517 1970S CARDIOID DYNAMIC

A mic that immediately stands out for its size, tone, and unique tonal control. The Uher 517 was designed during the golden era of German portable recording gear, pairing excellent build quality with a smart onboard M–S (Music/Speech) filter switch. Despite its modest appearance, this microphone delivers a large, warm sound that feels surprisingly full-bodied and musical for its class.

OPTICAL CONDITION

Very good overall condition with only minor handling traces.

TECHNICAL CONDITION

Fully functional and recently refurbished. The ON/OFF or remote start switch has been bypassed for reliability. The microphone has been professionally modified to XLR connection and performs perfectly on standard microphone inputs. The M–S filter switch works and has a strong tonal impact, shaping the sound from a full, rich mode to a thinner, more speech-focused response.

BUILD & DESIGN

Cylindrical silver body with top mesh grille and built-in Music/Speech (M–S) filter switch. The original Uher remote/record control system has been bypassed, and the mic now terminates in a standard XLR connector.

• Capsule: Dynamic capsule with front-address cardioid pickup, built for durability and consistent tonal balance.
• Circuit: Passive dynamic design, transformer-balanced output.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: Approx. 80 Hz – 12,000 Hz (variable via M–S filter)
Sensitivity / Impedance: Medium output, 200 Ω nominal
Output: Balanced (XLR)

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

Frequency Response:
80 Hz – 12,000 Hz

• Strong low-end body and warmth
• Prominent midrange presence around 2–4 kHz
• Noticeable high-frequency roll-off above 10 kHz
• M–S filter introduces steep low-frequency attenuation in “Speech” mode

SOUND CHARACTERISTICS

This microphone offers a big, warm, almost ribbon-like tone with a natural, rounded low end and smooth midrange. The M–S filter switch produces a very noticeable tonal change: “Music” mode gives a full, rich sound ideal for vocals, guitar, and room pickup, while “Speech” tightens the response and reduces low frequencies dramatically. Great for capturing vintage character on electric guitar amps, retro vocals, or broadcast-style voice.

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