OWNER’S MANUAL REFERENCE TUBE MICROPHONES REFERENCE CARDIOID | REFERENCE SILVER | REFERENCE GOLD 1
table of contents CONTENTS PAGE table of contents introduction Reference models power supply general microphone controls polar patterns circuit topology troubleshooting servicing specifications 3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 Pattern Adjust Tool (MRAG Only) Swivel Spare Suspension O-Rings XLR Cable IEC Power Lead Capsule Protector Microphone & Suspension Power Supply Silica Gel Packet Manual 3
introduction Thank you for selecting a Manley Reference Series Microphone! This manual covers the Reference Cardioid, the Reference Silver, and the Reference Gold Microphones, all handcrafted at our factory in Chino, California USA. These designs are optimized for extremely wide frequency response and exceptionally accurate transient response, and all feature very open-weave stainless steel grilles for the capsule window for zero-loss acoustical transmission.
Reference models Reference Cardioid The REF-C microphone, as it is commonly called, went into production in 1990. Its trademark black and red body makes it very recognizable. It has that “finished” sound right out of the box, making it the world’s #1 modern tube vocal microphone for top producers and voiceover artists alike. The center-fixed single-sided-active capsule features a 6 micron gold sputtered diaphragm based on the vintage U47.
power supply A separate and dedicated power supply unit (PSU) is required for each of the Manley microphones. The tube electronics which are the amplifying devices in the microphone require this separate high voltage source to power the B+ and heater supply. The PSU connects to the microphone through the dedicated multipin XLR cable provided. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER CABLES FOR THIS PURPOSE. It also has a 3 pin XLR output which provides the audio for your microphone preamplifier.
general Manley microphones will beat all others on grounds of sheer naturalness of sound without coloration or perceivable sonic signature. The designs are optimized for extremely wide frequency response and exceptionally accurate transient response. Visually impressive, our microphones inspire confidence in artists and producers. We have chosen a very open weave stainless-steel grille for the capsule window for near zero-loss acoustical transmission.
microphone controls -10 dB Pad Switch, Reference Cardioid & Reference Gold This tiny switch near the base of the microphone body reduces the signal by 10 dB. Rather than changing the capsule voltage or adding a resistor to the signal path, we chose a better technique: we alter the amount of negative feedback! While the tube circuit will handle any signal the capsule can deliver, the pad may be needed with some preamps. If you suspect that the mic is distorting, first try a different mic pre.
microphone controls Remember that proximity effect is primarily affected by the polar pattern. Often with vocalists, one wants a certain amount of bass boost associated with certain mics and certain distances. Rather than just hoping that the CARDIOID setting will do the right thing, this time try adjusting the PATTERN SELECT CONTROL to “dial in” the amount of proximity effect for this particular vocal. More OMNI will give less proximity effect, while more FIGURE 8 will bring in more lows.
microphone controls Pattern Select Control, Reference Silver (continued) Cardioid Omni Turning the screw clockwise closes the vent (omni) while turning counterclockwise opens it (cardioid). These patterns are marked on the control port as above. The Reference Silver mic achieves its directional response by subtracting sound that enters from the rear of the capsule, from the sound entering the front of the capsule.
polar patterns Examples of Typical Polar Patterns 0˚ 330˚ 330˚ 30˚ 300˚ 60˚ 0˚ 300˚ 60˚ 90˚ 270˚ 240˚ 120˚ 210˚ 330˚ 120˚ 210˚ Cardioid 90˚ 270˚ 240˚ 120˚ 180˚ 150˚ Omni-Directional 60˚ 90˚ 240˚ 150˚ 120˚ 210˚ 180˚ 150˚ Hyper-Cardioid 330˚ 60˚ 210˚ 180˚ 30˚ 300˚ 30˚ 300˚ Super-Cardioid 0˚ 0˚ 90˚ 270˚ 240˚ 150˚ 180˚ 330˚ 30˚ 0˚ 30˚ 300˚ 60˚ 90˚ 270˚ 240˚ 120˚ 210˚ 180˚ 150˚ Figure-Eight 11
circuit topology The tube employed in the Reference Gold and Reference Cardioid is a dual-triode 12AX7, forming an entire gain-block. The tube used in the Reference Silver is a 5670 dual-triode. Both tube types are easily obtainable and user-replaceable, and are mounted in ceramic sockets inside the microphones. Removing the two Philips screws at the base of the microphone body allows the complete microphone body & suspension to be removed so the tube may be replaced easily.
troubleshooting NO POWER, NO INDICATORS - Check the IEC cable is plugged in firmly. The Switch Mode PSU may be in protection mode, try turning the PSU OFF, wait 2 minutes then switch on again. Check the fuse on the back panel. A blown fuse often looks black inside, and an open fuse measures OPEN on a multimeter. Try replacing the fuse with one of the same value and size. If it blows then prepare to send the unit back to the dealer or factory for repair.
servicing 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Turn the power supply off, disconnect it from the wall, and disconnect the supplied cable from the microphone. Allow 10 minutes for voltages to discharge. Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the two Philips flat head screws and star washers on the microphone body that hold it to the base of the microphone. Gently pull the base of the microphone out from inside the body. The guts of the microphone will come out as one assembly.
Reference Gold CAPSULE TYPE: Dual Edge Terminated Large Diaphragm Capacitor (Condenser) POLAR PATTERNS: Continuously Variable (omni through cardioid through Figure of 8) DIAPHRAGM SIZE: 1 Inch; 1.
Designed & Handcrafted in the USA by: Manley Laboratories, Inc. 13880 Magnolia Avenue Chino, CA 91710 USA Tel: +1 (909) 627-4256 www.manley.com This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
