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Hello and welcome to The House of Chrome.
If you had to ask me what 1960's era mic is comparable or better to The American made Shure SM-58 model mic I would name a few but this Altec Lansing model would certainly be in that top 10 list in both ruggedness, reliability and tone.
This is the harder to find 650B with the classic stick mic profile that has a gorgeous satin chrome finish that's a little more midcentury modern with the slimmer handle and pronounced head. This mic comes with both the mic clip and cable in which to operate.
Pic # 2 shows this very model in an old data sheet I have. The 650B was very similar to the Altec 654A but the 650B was certainly the more expensive upgraded model. The mic is appx 7 1/2 inches long X 2 inches wide at the head and fairly lite weight.A very elegant design with an on / off switch as well as the practical bass drop off switch located on the bottom of the handle and both work with zero issues.
This was and continues to be a quality studio mic. It's not as bass heavy as a Shure SM-58 but in the 250 OHMS setting it has a very warm and smooth tone that just sounds perfect. Excellent for broadcasting and singing as it was designed. 50 to 15,000 HZ. I rarely come across any of these that no longer work. Altec Lansing was a quality company with several quality mics.
The 650B is a bit flashier than your typical mic but it's a very handsome model that will be an instant conversation piece and the output on this mic is strong. The dynamic cardioid element picks up mostly only what's in front of it blocking out unwanted background noise. It's an all metal design.
The mic has been thoroughly cleaned. The on / off switch, bass drop off switch and the XLR pins have all been addressed and this mic takes a standard XLR cable.
As you can see there is just lite wear on this example. The handle shows some tarnish but has a beautiful luster and the chrome grill is free of any unwanted dent's, tarnish or odors. The mic was never dropped. The Altec label has lite wear but completely legible. You can't hardly ask for a better 650B to use and I'd rate it a conservative 8 + on a scale of 1 - 10.
The mic comes with the new Auray brand mic clip that grips the mic firmly allowing you to hang the mic upside down without worries of it coming out. The tension on the upper clip is adjustable via side thumb screw. The clip will screw onto any desk or floor stand you have.
The cable provided is a balanced 27 foot example that is soft, pliable and free of damage. It comes with the quality Switchcraft female XLR connector for the mic and the Switchcraft male XLR end connector for you audio equipment. More than enough length to work with for any studio or stage work. This mic is ready to go.
If you need a special older mic to gig with or know somebody who loves quality older stage mics then the 650B will not disappoint. It just might be your new favorite model.
MICROPHONE STAND SHOWN IS NOT PART OF THIS SALE...USED FOR DISPLAY PURPOSES ONLY.
As with all my vintage items...
I can promise you will be happy with it for the price paid. If not...I have a no hassle return policy. The shipping will be on you as I believe that's fair but the purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS are welcome as well. Buyer must pay within 24 hours or an unpaid case will be opened and item relisted. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.
