This style of Shure mic is possibly the most famous of all time, a machine age classic that is still made in almost the same form that it was before rock and roll.
classic microphones
Microphones are a classic gadget because, even today, their design is often based upon Art Deco or Machine Age styling. Here is a chart of vintage and vintage style microphones designed to show how that style evolved and how it is still copied today. Vote for your faves.
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After an initial version was released in the early 1950's it set the standard for microphone design, and instantly become popular with famous personalities such as Edward Murrow. Hit the link to hear an audio sample recorded with this device.
Introduced in 1938, this classic ribbon mic was nicknamed the Birdcage, and can be purchased after the link.
Obviously, the wide angle close up does add to the curious look of this mic, however we love its robust and simple design.
The microphone used on 15 June 1920 by Dame Nellie Melba for the first live public entertainmant broadcast.
A $1200 Blue studio mic shows how, at the high end very little has changed in microphone design, as far as styling.
This simple table top mic has the classic control room look that is copied in many cartoons.
Although the word microphone was coined in the first half of the 19th Century, it was properly developed by Emile Berliner for use in transmitting sound for a telephone in 1876
This item is from the late 20s, complete with lightning bolt NBC logo. It is for sale for $8500.
This was the type of mic traditionally used for BBC outside broadcasts such as sports events. There are many other fabulous mics at the site linked to here.
This Pair of RCA 77-A's mounted on a 1930's RCA floor stand with CBS flags is for sale for $12500
This is an example of the first type of carbon microphone a technology which became widely used in early microphones.
