Original 1950s Neumann/ Gefell CMV 563 Valve Microphone

Overview

A rare and historically significant opportunity: an original 1950s Georg Neumann & Co. Gefell CMV 563 valve microphone, comprehensively restored and maintained over the years by three of the most respected specialists in the field, and presented in exceptional condition for an instrument of its age.

The CMV 563 is one of the great vintage valve microphones — a piece of audio history that also happens to be a genuinely exceptional recording tool. This example has been actively cared for, not simply stored, and the pedigree of work done to it places it firmly at the top of what is available on the market.

 Restoration & Provenance

The history of work on this microphone is what sets it apart from other vintage examples:

•       Full restoration by Andreas Grosser (circa 2010), including the installation of a new old stock (NOS) transformer — one of the most respected names in vintage microphone restoration

•       Original M7s capsule reskinned by Thiersch — a world-renowned capsule specialist whose work is sought after by studios and collectors globally

•       M7s capsule subsequently re-voiced by Gunter Wagner in Australia in 2016 — bringing the sonic performance to its absolute peak

This is not a microphone that has been patched together — it has received expert, considered attention at every stage.

 What's Included

•       CMV 563 microphone body (Type CMV 563, Serial No: 9647)

•       Original M7s capsule (Serial No: 005) — reskinned by Thiersch, re-voiced by Gunter Wagner

•       Original M55k omni capsule (directional high frequencies, Serial No: 5709)

•       Spare EF86 valve

•       Original microphone holder

•       Original body screw cover and accessories

•       Original 1950s capsule box — fragile with age but present and charming, included for the new owner

•       Original 1950s microphone body box — similarly aged and fragile, included as a piece of history

•       HPRC Pelican hard case with custom foam — the primary protective case for the microphone and all accessories

The vintage boxes are old and delicate — they are included as historical artefacts and for their collector interest, not as primary protective packaging. The HPRC Pelican case is the correct storage and transport solution for this microphone.

 Condition

Very Very Good for a 1950s instrument. The microphone body shows the honest patina of age consistent with a piece from this era, but is structurally sound and cosmetically clean. The capsule performance is excellent following the Thiersch and Wagner work. All original accessories are present. The HPRC case and foam are in excellent condition.

Shipping

This microphone will be shipped with the utmost care. It will travel in its HPRC case, itself double-boxed with substantial outer packaging. Full insurance to the declared value will be taken out on every shipment. Ships from the Canary Islands, Spain (outside EU VAT area — please check your local import regulations). DHL only — note that FedEx caps liability on vintage instruments over 20 years old and is therefore not appropriate for this item. Photographed at every stage of packing before dispatch. Estimated fully loaded shipping cost (base rate + insurance to declared value of €4,200): €180–€190 to UK or mainland Europe. Final cost confirmed at point of sale based on destination.