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9 polar patternsGauge Microphones ECM-47

  MSRP: $479 Multi-Pattern Condenser Tube Microphone

Gauge Microphones ECM-47

Description

The ECM-47 is a large-diaphragm multipattern tube microphone. It is described as having “the warmth of a tube 47 and the presence peak of a C12.”

The mic has a 35mm capsule, with dual 6-micron diaphragms. A switch on the external power supply allows selection of any of 9 pickup patterns, from omni to figure-of-8. The manual warns that “whenever the polar pattern is changed, please allow at least 3-minutes for the change to take full effect.”

The amplifier circuit uses a 6072 vacuum tube and has a transformer-coupled output. The transformer is a dual-bobbin design with a 6.5:1 ratio. (The Neumann BV8 transformer in the U-47 had the same ratio.)

The Gauge quality control program requires that:

  • Tubes are tested for gain and noise prior to assembly; if more than 1 in 20 tubes fails, the entire shipment is rejected.
  • Capsules are manufactured to higher tolerances than for low-priced mics.
  • Mics are burned in for 48 hours prior to shipping from the factory.
  • Each mic is individually auditioned in California by Gauge staffmembers.

The ECM-47 ships in a hardwood case with a pop filter, elastic shockmount, tube power supply and power cable, in a flight case.

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The mic was released in 2009.

Specifications

Pickup Patterns Pads & Filters
Omnidirectional (16 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Cardioid (16 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Bidirectional (16 mV/Pa; 20 - 20,000 Hz)
Capsule Dimensions Impedance SPL/Noise
Capsule diameter: 35mm
Diaphragm gauge: 6 microns 		200 Ohms (Low) Max SPL: 135 dB
Self-noise: 18.0 dB(A)
Weight Length Max Diameter Interface(s)
n/a n/a n/a
  • 3-pin XLR male (1)
Power Specifications
  • Includes tube power supply

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