RCA 44-BX Ribbon Microphone — Vintage Broadcast Classic
I've personally owned this microphone for over 10 years.
The RCA 44-BX is one of the most iconic and recognizable ribbon microphones in broadcast and recording history, produced from 1938 onward as part of RCA's legendary 44 series (following the 44A and 44B). It's a high-fidelity, bi-directional (figure-8 pattern) ribbon microphone, using a thin corrugated aluminum ribbon suspended in a strong magnetic field — the classic "velocity microphone" design that RCA itself pioneered.
The 44BX became a mainstay of golden-age broadcast studios and recording sessions, prized for its rich low end and smooth, warm midrange and highs. It requires no power of any kind (no phantom power, batteries, or tubes) and remains a favorite today for vocals, mono drum overheads, and classic-style recording techniques.
Cabling This unit has been re-cabled: it now has approximately 2m of Bando Densen microphone cable, terminated with an ITT Cannon male XLR connector.
Bando Densen(坂東電線) is a well-established Japanese cable manufacturer specializing in professional-grade audio cabling.
Condition As with any vintage piece of this age, there is some expected wear and cosmetic aging. I can't personally guarantee the exact sound quality/character, so I'll be uploading a sample recording video so you can judge the sound for yourself. This is the microphone body only — the stand shown in the photos is for reference/display purposes and is not included.
Please note: 2 of the 4 bottom plate screws are missing. The remaining 2 screws hold the plate securely in place, but a full set of matching replacement screws was not readily available (RCA's original screws appear to be a somewhat unique/non-standard size). A buyer with access to a specialist (such as AEA or a similar vintage mic repair service) should be able to source or fabricate replacements if desired.
Mounting & Adapters
The microphone holder uses a BTS thread (1/2", a Japanese broadcast-industry standard). Included adapters allow conversion to AKG (3/8") and JIS (5/16", via a Japanese "TAMA" brand adapter) threads.
Please note:
for stands using the Shure (5/8") standard — the most common size in the US — you may need an additional adapter, which is a common item available from most pro audio retailers.
A note on shipping risk
The microphone has been tested and is confirmed working as of the time of listing. However, please understand that ribbon microphones contain an extremely thin, delicate ribbon element that can potentially be affected by air pressure changes or physical shock during international air transport, despite careful packing on my end. This is a risk inherent to shipping any ribbon microphone, and it is beyond my control once the item is in the carrier's hands. I am unable to accept responsibility for any such transit-related damage to the ribbon. Please only proceed with purchase if you understand and accept this risk.
Customs & Import Charges
Any import duties, taxes, and customs clearance fees are the buyer's responsibility. These charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your country's customs office for more information before purchasing.
Packing & Shipping
This item will be carefully packed with cushioning and moisture protection for international transport from Japan.
This is a vintage item sold AS-IS; no returns or refunds will be accepted.