• All-Tube triode design 12AX7 or 7025EH  (Previous versions used 12AT7 and 6072)
• -10 dB switchable pad
• Frequency response: 10Hz-30KHz
• Sensitivity: 17mV/Pa
• Noise typically -120dB EIN
• Max SPL: 150dB
• Output Impedance: 250 Ohms
• Weight: 2.25 lbs (mic)
• Size: mic body 2" diameter x 9.7" long x 4.5" (mic suspension outside diameter)
• Shipping weight: 15 lbs

As of 6/2020 SMPS Power Supply versions REFGOLD7P####:

• Universal MANLEY POWER™ Switch Mode Power Supply; works worldwide
• Power Consumption: 8 Watts
• Weight / Dims: 2.35 lbs / 5 x 3.3 x 9.3” (with handle)
• Fuse: 250VAC 2A SLO BLO Ceramic - 5mm x 20mm
• Input Voltage: 90VAC to 250VAC (Universal)
• Mains Frequency: 50~60Hz

• Outboard Power Supply is factory set for 100V, 120V or 220-240VAC operation for original destination country's mains voltage.
• Operating Mains Voltage changeable with power transformer re-wiring via internal jumpers and fuse value change.
• Older units might have 120-220V Voltage changeover switch
• Size: 5" x 9.3" x 3.3" (PSU including handle)
• Weight: 2.6 lbs (PSU)
• Mains Voltage Frequency: 50~60Hz
• Mains Fuse Value: 250mA @ 100~120V; 125mA @ 220~240V operation
• Mains Fuse Type: 5mm x 20mm SLO-BLO Glass or Ceramic
  (older units used 1/4” x 1 1/4” size MDA or MDL type)
• Power Consumption: 70mA @ 120V = 8.4 Watts

The Manley Reference Gold is a premium, multi-pattern microphone designed for truly accurate and transparent musical recordings. Its primary application is for capturing sources that require uncompromised fidelity and detail, such as intimate vocal performances, classical instruments, acoustic guitars, and orchestral recordings. Its flat frequency response and ability to capture subtle nuances make it a reference-grade tool for capturing a source with stunning realism.

The Reference Gold features a continuously variable polar pattern control, allowing you to seamlessly transition between omni, cardioid, and figure-8 patterns, as well as all positions in between. This is a significant benefit for creative recording, as it allows the engineer to fine-tune the microphone's acoustic response and proximity effect to perfectly suit the source and the room. This provides unparalleled flexibility in a single microphone, enabling a wide variety of recording techniques and sonic characters.

The Manley Reference Gold, like our other modern Reference Series microphones, is powered by a universal Manley Power® switch-mode power supply. This external power supply is engineered to provide a highly regulated 300V B+ voltage to the tube, ensuring immense headroom and consistent, low-noise performance. It is a universal voltage device that can operate anywhere in the world (from 90 to 250V AC) without any reconfiguration, making it ideal for international use.

The 24-karat gold finish on the microphone body is more than just an aesthetic choice; it's a testament to the microphone's world-class build quality. The body is machined from solid brass, which provides excellent shielding properties. The gold plating is then applied to a high lustre for an impressive finish that inspires confidence in artists and producers, while also serving as a mark of the uncompromising quality and attention to detail that goes into every Manley product.

The all-tube triode circuit in the Manley Reference Gold is built around a dual-triode 12AX7 tube. (Previous versions of the microphone may have used a 12AT7 or 6072 tube.) Each tube is specifically selected for lowest noise and optimal performance in our purpose-built circuits. The tube is easily obtainable and replaceable, and is mounted in a ceramic socket with pure silver pins to ensure a pristine electrical connection.

Yes, despite its delicate appearance, the Reference Gold can handle high SPL (Sound Pressure Level) sources with ease. With a maximum SPL of 150 dB and an onboard -10dB switchable pad, the microphone's high-headroom all-tube circuit ensures that even very loud instruments like drums, electric guitars, and brass can be recorded without any audible distortion. This makes it a highly versatile tool for a wide variety of studio applications.