Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
You are looking at one of Electro Voices most elegant microphones ever manufactured and sold as a variant by The Ampex Corporation. These Ampex H-1390 dynamic microphones are a bit rarer than the Electro Voice 623's that were made during the 1950's. Clean, modern, simplistic...the 623 (H-1390) microphone is a 1st generation "general purpose" mic that was an affordable option to the more expensive dynamic cardioid mics of the day. It comes with the short cable shown in which to operate.
Pic # 2 is from the E.V 623 (same microphone as the H-1390) showing the mics basic characteristics. It should noted right away that this mic has been tested and has an excellent working element.
The Ampex-1390 is an omni-directional microphone picking up more sound making it ideal for a singer who would play the guitar or other handheld instrument. It was an all metal design with polished chrome finish and this particular example is quite beautiful. Most of the Ampex and E.V 623's I come across rarely work anymore. This one has defied the odds and sounds like new.
The mic is currently wired to low impedance. It's a dual Z mic but the cable is Low Z. Even though it's Low Z there is very little bass in the tone and this would make a great "rockabilly" mic. Also great if you're looking for an old school blues tone. It' a little dirtier in nature and very bright. The signal strength is very good but it will sound really nice if you can add a bit of gain to it. I find these mics are stronger in the Hi Z setting.
The polished chrome housing has held up very well with typical lite wear. Just a few tiny scratches and scuff marks on this mic. The chrome has come off in areas of the tip exposing the brass material beneath but this mic is still extremely nice and I did replace the inner pop filter as the original was all but wore out.
Please le the detailed pics be your guide. The Ampex badge shows no wear and completely legible. A very good looking mic overall and I'd rate it a true 8 on a scale of 1 - 10.
The joint mechanism works perfectly with plenty of adjustable tension and the threads for both the cable and stand are perfect. This mic takes a standard screw on 4 pin cable which is included. Same cable used by the E.V 664 and Shure 545 / 545 S.
The cable shown is a short model. It's soft pliable and works excellent. It has the older Switchcraft male XLR end connector so you can simply leave the cable on the mic at all times and add a longer XLR cable as an extension only when needed. It's a very practical set up really. I built the cable myself so it should last for several decades to come.
This would make a very fine addition to any vintage microphone collection but don't be afraid to use this daily as well.
MICROPHONE STAND IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...USED FOR DISPLAYPURPOSES ONLY.
As with all my vintage microphones...
As with all my vintage microphones...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 original purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS ARE WELCOME as well. I have had problems recently collecting on payment for items sold so PLEASE do not purchase this item unless you are capable of paying within 24 hours. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.