• Condenser Transducer based on vintage Sony C-37A Hand Made in USA by Josephson Audio
• Single-Sided Large Diaphragm Capsule Edge Tensioned
• 5 Micron Evaporated Gold Diaphragm 1" diameter
• Dual Pattern Cardioid or Omni Directional adjustable via vent on the backplate
• 5670 Internal Vacuum Tube Head Amplifier
• Constant Current Source for Tube Minimizes Noise and Tube Selection
• Hand Wound Nickel Core Manley Iron Output Transformer
• Output Impedance: 30 Ohms
• High Pass Filter Switch -3dB @ 55Hz 6dB/8va
• FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10Hz-30kHz, AMP to 60kHz
• MAXIMUM 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)
• AMPLIFIER NOISE: Typically -108 dBV “A Weighted”
• BODY: Etched Silver Anodized Aluminum
• Mic Weight: 1.5 lbs
• PSU Weight: 2.35 lbs
• Size: mic body 2" diameter x 9.7" long x 4.5" (mic suspension outside diameter)
• PSU Size: 5" x 3.3" x 9.3" (including handle)
• Custom Designed Outboard Switched Mode PSU 90V ~ 250VAC Universal Voltage Operation 50Hz-60Hz
• Power Consumption: 8 Watts
• PSU Mains Fuse: 5mm X 20 mm, 2A @ 250V, CERAMIC, Slo-Blo

The Manley Reference Silver is a versatile studio microphone that excels at capturing a "warm and rich tone" with its inspiration drawn from the vintage Sony C-37A. It is often a go-to for instruments that require a nuanced, full-bodied sound, such as female vocals, saxophones, and brass. Its unique low-end response and mid-range focus also make it an exceptional choice for sources like drum overheads, acoustic guitars, and banjo, where it provides a smooth, non-sibilant, and "problem-solver" character.

Unlike the Reference Cardioid's fixed pattern, the Reference Silver features a unique adjustable acoustic chamber on the rear of the capsule. This allows you to mechanically switch between cardioid and omni-directional polar patterns. This physical adjustment provides more control over the microphone's response to the room, giving you the versatility to capture either a focused, close-mic sound or a wider, more open room tone with a single microphone. It's a key feature that makes the Silver a highly adaptable tool.

The Manley Reference Silver is powered by a custom-designed, low-noise, switch-mode power supply. This modern power supply operates at frequencies well above the audible range, which results in a cleaner, quieter signal path with zero 50/60Hz chassis ripple. It is also highly efficient and can accept any mains input voltage from 90V to 250V AC, making the microphone a true "travel-ready" device that requires no reconfiguration for worldwide use.

While a ribbon microphone typically has a smooth, natural sound and a distinct proximity effect, the Reference Silver offers a similar warmth and non-fatiguing quality but with the added benefits of a high-output condenser mic. The Silver's sound is rich and full-bodied, particularly in the low-midrange, but unlike a ribbon, it has a high-frequency extension and transient response that gives it a more detailed and "present" quality. It's a great choice when you want the richness of a ribbon but with the clarity and output of a condenser.

The Manley Reference Silver utilizes a mic-grade 5670 vacuum tube in its head amplifier circuit. This tube works in conjunction with a FET constant current source, which helps minimize noise and ensures stable, reliable performance. This hybrid design delivers a robust signal with a characteristically rich and warm tone that is a modern re-imagination of classic tube microphone circuits.

Yes, the Reference Silver is an excellent choice for loud sources. With a maximum input SPL of 150 dB at the capsule, the microphone is built to handle high-volume instruments with ease and without distortion. This makes it a natural fit for applications such as drum overheads, snare drums, electric guitars, and horns, where its rich, warm tone and ability to capture dynamic peaks without clipping are a distinct advantage.