Download about a million pages of product information regarding the complete MILAB microphone line circa 1981 (presented in two parts due to file size):
DOWNLOAD PART 1: Milab_1981_1
DOWNLOAD PART 2: Milab_1981_2
For the low low price of (no fkkn dollars), you’ll get: The MILAB 1981 catalog, price list, product sheets (some of which are quite extensive) on the DC20, DC21, DC63, DC73, DC96, MSXY-8 ETC., as well as a price list and a very confusing attempt at an explanation of what MIPOW phantom-power is (seems like normal Phantom Power except that pin 1 is +48v rather than pins 2 and 3 being +48v relative to pin 1????).
I’ve never used, seen, or, to my knowledge, heard any of these microphones; frankly, I haven’t even read these documents. It’s too hot out and i’ve had too much wine. I would imagine that they are pretty decent tho; been hunting for one on eBay for a year now, no luck yet. Something odd about Swedish products: while Swedish culture itself has a reputation in America for sex-i-ness (cemented by this classic film, BTW), Swedish products have quite the opposite affect.
Anyway, here’s some pictures of old microphones.
5 replies on “More Than You Ever Wanted To Know About Old Swedish Microphones”
Hey Mon, you’ve let the BIG SECRET out!!. Now there is going to be a ‘run’ on these Nordic mics. Also check out PML… I think the founder of Rode mics (from down under) is also from Scandinavia…Think of the higher end RODE mics as relatives of MILAB and PML and don’t forget SANKEN mics from Japan. Cheers, Ton.
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(seems like normal Phantom Power except that pin 1 is +48v rather than pins 2 and 3 being +48v relative to pin 1????)
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I think it’s just labeled unfortunately. If you look at the graph, the center tap of the transformer (between XLR2 & XLR3) goes to the “+” terminal of the amplifier. Hence XLR2&3 is +48V relative to XLR1 (GND), just as it’s the standard today on every desk.
I’m sure you have heard them, they have a very impressive user list – and they are still in production:
Also note that historic models can be manufactured upon request. 🙂
Just bought a batch of 14 old mics; as well as a couple of nice Beyers (which is what I spotted in the photos) their is a Milab F-69 in the lot, it looks in very nice condition. If it is anything like as good as some people say I will keep it in my collection. I gather it is best as an instrument mic and I’ve heard it’s good for guitar amps but does anyone know what other instruments it might excel on. Is this a Swedish SM57? Or a lot better?
I’m setting up a new workshop and I plan to put a lot of my classic analogue gear up for hire to studios and PA companies although some gear will only be for studios and some pieces will only appeal to PA companies. My mic collection is large (about 200 probably more) and covers most of the industry standards from Shure, Senheiser and some Audix and Audio-Technica, Rode etc and much more. I have a quite few nice classic mics; old Beyers, Calrecs and AKG mics (C451s and a D12 from the 50s + others.)
This Milab F-69 though is not a mic I have ever used or come across, I haven’t the faintest idea what it may be worth secondhand, although I haven’t found a cheap Milab yet but this one doesn’t seem to be anywhere. I think it has probably found the right home now but anyone with experience of using one I would be grateful to hear from.
Chris I’ll definitely download the info you are providing; thank you.
It seems like kind of autotransformer to me. The capsule is not galvanically isolated from xlr.