Manley Reference Silver Microphone
Best premium tool for capturing studio quality audio.
This handcrafted tube condenser microphone delivers a warm, rich, and creamy tone, inspired by a legendary studio classic. It excels on vocals, instruments, and drum overheads, offering a versatile sound profile. Featuring a dual-pattern capsule with an adjustable acoustic chamber, it seamlessly switches between Cardioid and Omni pickup patterns. The microphone utilizes a 5670 vacuum tube and a hand-wound Manley IRON output transformer for a distinctive sonic character. Meticulously hand-assembled in the USA, it includes a custom power supply, suspension shock mount, and a protective carrying case for a complete professional setup.
$4999.00
More Reference Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 3373
#272 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+621%
Above average
High Pass Filter Switch
35568
/ -dB @ Hz dB/va
Who it's for
- Professional recording artists and engineers seeking ultimate audio fidelity.
- Producers and musicians desiring a classic, analog sound for their tracks.
- Studio owners and engineers making a long-term investment in equipment.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians and aspiring home studio owners.
- Engineers without a fully optimized high-end studio environment.
- Producers needing a versatile workhorse microphone for diverse projects.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
Delivers a lush, vintage-inspired warmth that flatters almost any sound source.
SPL Handling
Handles high-decibel sources like brass and drums with remarkable composure.
Build Integrity
Meticulously hand-assembled in the USA with premium, road-ready components.
Versatility
Dual-pattern design excels across diverse studio applications from vocals to overheads.
Noise Floor
Exceptional signal clarity ensures pristine recordings even in quiet, delicate passages.
Frequency Range
Captures an expansive spectrum with smooth, natural detail across the board.
Key Specs
High Pass Filter Switch
-3dB @ 55Hz 6dB/8va
Output Impedance
30 Ohms
Frequency Response
10Hz-30kHz, AMP to 60kHz
Max input SPL
150 dB SPL at Capsule
Sensitivity
7mV/Pa
Amplifier Type
2 Triode Gain Block Lo Z Output
Output Polarity
Balanced XLR, Pin 2 Hot, Pin 3 Low
Amplifier Distortion
Less Than 0.05 % THD+N BW 22-22 kHz (1kOhm Load, 1kHz -40dBV Output)
Know before you buy
The Reference Silver is designed to provide a warm, rich, and creamy tone. It is directly inspired by the classic Sony C-37a, making it an excellent choice for sources that need a smooth, vintage-leaning character, such as vocals, brass, or drum overheads.
The microphone features a unique adjustable acoustic chamber on the capsule itself. This allows you to physically toggle between Cardioid and Omni-directional pickup patterns.
Yes, it is built to handle high sound pressure levels up to 150 dB SPL. Its robust design and high-quality components make it well-suited for loud instruments like snare drums, toms, and brass sections without distortion.
The microphone comes with its own dedicated external power supply unit, which is included in the box. This unit features universal voltage compatibility, so it can be used in different regions without needing specialized power converters.
The 5670 tube serves as the heart of the head amplifier, contributing to the microphone's signature harmonic richness and depth. This specific tube choice is integral to achieving the warm, musical sound profile that defines the Reference Silver.
Yes, the microphone includes a proprietary precision suspension system. It is specifically engineered to isolate the capsule from mechanical vibrations and handling noise, ensuring a clean recording signal.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$4999