MANLEY
REFERENCE
MICROPHONES
OWNER’S MANUAL
Reference Cardioid
Reference Mono Gold
Reference Stereo Gold
rev9-2-11cd
CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
INTRODUCTION 3
POWER SUPPLY 4
MICROPHONE CONTROLS 5
GENERAL NOTES 6
MAINS CONNECTIONS 7
TROUBLESHOOTING 8
STEREO GOLD ADDENDUM 9
SPECIFICATIONS 10
VOLTAGE CONVERSION 11
INTRODUCTION
THANK YOU!...
...for choosing a Manley Laboratories REFERENCE SERIES MICROPHONE.
This manual covers the following models: Reference Cardioid, Reference Mono
Gold, and Reference Stereo Gold.
GENERAL NOTES
Manley microphones will beat all others on grounds of sheer naturalness of
sound without coloration or perceivable sonic signature. The design is optimized
for extremely wide frequency response and exceptionally accurate transient
response.
Visually impressive, the Mics inspire condence in artists and producers. The
Reference Gold’s microphone body is machined from brass providing excellent
shielding properties, polished to a high lustre, then plated with 24 karat gold
for an impressive nish. The Reference Cardioid has a classic black anodized
aluminum casing. We have chosen a very open weave stainless-steel grille for
the capsule window for zero-loss acoustical transmission. You may notice the
that the capsule will move slightly when the Microphone is moved. This is a
second defense to prevent unwanted vibrations from being picked up by the
capsule. The capsule itself is mounted onto a neoprene-rubber shock-mount such
as those used for aerospace gyroscopes.
The Manley Gold Reference Multi-Pattern Microphones use our own design of
large diaphragm capsule (1.25 inch overall, 1 inch diaphragm diameter) which
are executed to precise tolerances made possible by modern micro-milling
machinery available today in California. The capsule rings and back-plates
are milled from solid brass and are mounted on Teon insulator rings. The
gold diaphragm lm comes from Germany and is tensioned using proprietary
techniques which ensures capsule-to-capsule constancy. We have found the 5
micron gauge gold lm to exhibit inherently stable characteristics over years
(unlike thinner diaphragms) while still maintaining the speed, “air”, and ultrahigh frequency response. (The Reference Cardioid uses 6 micron on its one
“live” side.)
The tube electronics found in the Manley Reference Series Microphones consist
of two triodes per capsule in cascade forming an entire gain-block. The tube
employed is a dual-triode 12AT7, easily obtainable and replaceable, mounted in
a ceramic socket with pure silver pins. The output is coupled through a custom
built output transformer of unparalleled quality and substantial physical size
employing pure nickel laminations, “humbucking” bi-lar windings, all encased
in mu-metal. The polar pattern control is continuously variable between the
OMNI, CARDIOID, and FIGURE 8 positions on the Gold series.
The base of both the Reference Gold and the Reference Cardioid microphones
houses a 6-pin connector which carries power and signal between the power
supply and the mic itself. The audio is picked off at the supply, and then
delivered to the mic pre via an XLR output.
Our precision suspension system is provided with each REFERENCE
MICROPHONE. Because the entire working “guts” of the microphone may
be removed for service in one piece from the housing, it is envisioned that the
microphone need not be removed from the suspension. We also provide a very
useful swivel of our own design with every microphone; its T-bar handle and
locking clutch action require no tools to adjust.
3
The open mesh design of the mic allows all the highs to reach the capsule
unimpared and allows the engineer to choose if, when and how much pop screen
is appropriate. Vocal “pops” may distort the capsule without a pop screen. Air
movement and wind can overload a good capacitor mic capsule much easier
than loud levels.We strongly recommend a good 2 layer nylon pop screen with
this mic on close vocals. A built in foam screen needs built in HF boost - not
here. Of course, no Manley microphone would be complete without a genuine
leather capsule protector which slips (and ties) onto the end of the microphone
to protect the capsule when not in use. Each Reference Microphone is packaged
complete in a sturdy case.
The STEREO version of our GOLD REFERENCE microphone is identical
in every respect to the MONO GOLD REFERENCE but with two complete
systems installed in one case with the upper capsule being xed and the lower
capsule being continuously ROTATABLE through 90° for M-S and X-Y
BLUMLEIN-STYLE coincident pair recording technique. Each capsule has its
own continuously variable PATTERN control and individual -10dB PAD switch
for close miking of extra-ordinarily powerful brass and other instruments. Also,
due to the power and audio requirements of having two complete microphone
systems in one housing, the stereo mic has a dedicated 4-pin power cable that
goes to the base of the mic. Audio is carried out from a single jack that is then
split into two separate XLR cables (see page 9 for details).
POWER SUPPLY
FRONT BACK
A B C D E F
A. Power light: When power is on, this light will glow red. When power is off,
this light will, in fact, not glow at all.
B. IEC Power Connector: Connector for AC power input.
C. Fuse Holder: Replace with 250mA SLO-BLO fuse for 100-120V operation,
or 125mA SLO-BLO fuse for 220-240V operation. This PSU uses 5x20mm
fuses.
D. Power Switch: Pressing this switch up will turn the supply on.
E. 6-Pin Microphone Cable Input: Where the supplied power/audio cable is
attached.
F: XLR Out to Micpre: Where the XLR cable goes out to your micpreamp.
(Reference Cardioid and Mono Reference Gold)
POWER SUPPLY
4
MICROPHONE CONTROLS
A: PATTERN SELECT CONTROL (GOLD MODELS)
***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 POT 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. In other words,
while this is only true for close miking, the PATTERN SELECT can be an effective
bass control.***
TIP: You may notice that as the pattern becomes more FIGURE 8 that certain air
conditioning rumbles and room noise exibit reduced pick-up. Conversely, if you want
more room sound, try moving the pattern select closer to OMNI...
Compared to many microphones, the Manley Reference Gold Microphones exibit less
proximity effect for a given close distance. This, we feel is a clear advantage. Most
engineers we consulted preferred the options of bass control from the console rather
than the typical situation where a few inches of distance can make or break a take. We
also chose to allow the frequency response of the Reference Mics to extend below 20
Hz. Some mics seem to have a low frequency resonance that can be desirable at times
while boomy or tubby at other times. Our goal is “at and natural”.
B: - 10 dB PAD SWITCH (ALL MODELS)
This control provides the user with a choice of any
typical polar pattern. Many high quality condenser
microphones give the user 3 or 4 patterns only;
we chose to provide you with an innite number
of patterns via this control. For example, a setting
between the “heart shaped” CARDIOID and
FIGURE 8 will result in “SUPER-CARDIOID”
and “HYPER-CARDIOID” patterns.
OMNI FIGURE 8
CARDIOID
0 dB
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 into the signal path we
chose a better technique. We change the amount of negative feedback derived from
a dedicated transformer winding. While the tube circuit will handle any signal the
capsule can deliver the pad may be needed with some pre-amps. If you suspect that
the mic is distorting, rst try a different mic pre. The capsule is rated for 150 dB SPL
but wind or air movement are exceptions. A pop lter will be needed for close vocals.
-10 dB
5
GENERAL NOTES
CONNECTIONS
MONO REFERENCE GOLD & REFERENCE CARDIOID MODELS - connect
6-pin cable (supplied with mic) between PSU and mic. Audio comes from
separate 3 pin XLR on the PSU.
STEREO REFERENCE GOLD MODEL - carefully connect the 4 pin power
cables to the mic and power supply. Line up the groove and ridge of these
connectors to prevent accidental damage. Next connect a known good mic cable
to the power supply, and you’re ready to record.
If possible, use a short cable and a high quality microphone preamplier (with
the phantom power turned off) located near the mic. This is usually the best
for audio quality. Try to avoid running the mic signal thru a patch bay or extra
connectors and wires. Attach the mic securely to a good mic stand and and lay
the cables so that people cannot trip over the cable or topple the stand. Connect
the power supply to the wall outlet and turn on the supply. Let the mic warm up
for at least 5 minutes before using.
If any of the connections at the base of the microphone become loose over time,
they can be easily tightened with a 1/16” allen key.
WATER & MOISTURE
As with any electrical equipment, this unit should not be used near water or
moisture. In rare situations moisture from breath may temporarily cause loss of
output from condenser mics. Do not use a blower or heat to accelerate drying.
Extreme humidity may comprimise the performance of some high value ( 500
MΩ and 200 MΩ ) resistors in the circuit. If liquid enters the unit, it must be
immediately returned to your dealer for servicing.
SERVICING
The user should not attempt to service this unit beyond that described in the
owner’s manual. Refer all servicing to Manley Laboratories.
WARNING!
TO PREVENT THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT OPEN THE POWER SUPPLY CABINET OR
REMOVE THE SHELL FROM THE MICROPHONE.
-------- HIGH VOLTAGES --------
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONEL
www.manley.com/service.php
6
Your REFERENCE MICROPHONE Power Supply has been factory set to the
correct mains voltage for your country. The voltage setting is marked on the serial badge,
located on the underside of the power suppy. Check that this complies with your local
supply.
Exportunitsforcertainmarketshaveamouldedmainsplugttedtocomply
withlocalrequirements.Ifyourunitdoesnothaveaplugttedthecolouredwiresshould
be connected to the appropriate plug terminals in accordance with the following code:
GREEN/YELLOW EARTH
BLUE NEUTRAL
BROWN LIVE
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead may not correspond with the
coloured marking identifying the terminals in your plug proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN/YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the
plug which is marked by the letter E or by the safety earth symbol or coloured GREEN or
GREEN and YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is
marked by the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal in the plug which
is marked by the letter L or coloured RED.
DO NOT CONNECT/SWITCH ON THE MAINS SUPPLY UNTIL ALL OTHER
CONNECTIONS HAVE BEEN MADE.
Note: Units are purpose built for original destination country’s mains voltage: 100V,
120V, or 220-240VAC as indicated on the serial number badge. Power transformer
can be rewired for another country’s mains voltage via internal jumpers and fuse
change. See page 11 for details.
100V and 120V operation: 250mA SLO-BLO fuse.
220-240V operation: 125mA SLO-BLO fuse.
***Fuses for ALL VOLTAGES are 5x20mm GDC packaged fuses.***
MAINS CONNECTIONS
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Information for customers:
The European Parliament and the Council of the European Union have issued the Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment Directive. The purpose of the Directive is the prevention of waste of electrical and electronic equipment, and to promote the reuse and recycling and other forms of recovery of such waste. As such the Directive
concerns producers, distributors and consumers.
The WEEE directive requires that both manufacturers and end-consumers dispose of electrical and electronic
equipment and parts in an environmentally safe manner, and that equipment and waste are reused or recovered for their materials or energy. Electrical and electronic equipment and parts must not be disposed of with
normal household wastage; all electrical and electronic equipment and parts must be collected and disposed of
separately.
Products and equipment which must be collected for reuse, recycling and
other forms of recovery are marked with the following pictogram:
Small products may not always be marked with this pictogram in which case this is present in the instructions for
use,ontheguaranteecerticateandprintedonthepackaging.
When disposing of electrical and electronic equipment by use of the collection systems available in your country,
you protect the environment, human health and contribute to the prudent and rational use of natural resources.
Collecting electrical and electronic equipment and waste prevents the potential contamination of nature with the
hazardous substances which may be present in electrical and electronic products and equipment.
Your MANLEY or LANGEVIN retailer will assist with and advise you of the correct way of disposal in your
country.
7
NO POWER, NO INDICATORS, NADA - Probably something to do with AC
power. Is it plugged in? Murphy’s Law. Check the fuse on the back panel. A blown
fuse often looks blackened inside or the little wire inside looks broken. A very
blackened fuse is a big hint that a short occured. Try replacing the fuse with a good
one of the same value and size. If it blows too then prepare to send the unit back to
the dealer or factory for repair. The fuse is a protection device and it should blow if
there is a problem. If the unit works with a new fuse, ne.
LIGHTS BUT NO SOUND - This typically indicates a cabling problem. Check
to ensure the XLR mic cables you are using are not damaged. If the XLR and
micpreamp (and the rest of the signal path) are known to be good, it may be the mic.
LEVELS SEEM TO BE WRONG, NO BOTTOM - Most likely one of two
scenarios. One, a partially broken cable. You would then be missing half the balanced signal, and levels would be down approximately -6dB. Second possibility,
the signal’s polarity has been reversed somewhere. Try ipping the phase on your
micpreamp (if it has a phase switch), and see if that helps.
**Put on some headphones, close your eyes, and speak into the mic from a distance
of about one foot. Your voice should be full and clear with a solid low-end. With the
phase reversed, this solidity goes away and your voice will sound like it is swim-
ming all around your head with no clearly dened center image.**
HUM - This is most likely a ground loop. Try a 3-pin to 2-pin AC adaptor (about
a dollar at a hardware store). We do not recommend breaking off the power cable’s
grounding pin.
BUZZ - This is most likely a faulty ground somewhere in the chain. Make sure all
the philips screws holding the mic body to the mic base are tight. Stereo models or
older models might have loose set-screws that hold and ground the connectors to the
body system. Use a 1/16” hex key to tighten these set screws around the base of the
microphone. It might also be the tube making a bad noise - read on...
EXCESS NOISE, DISTORTION, SNAPS CRACKLES & POPS - Probably a
tube. Luckily for you, they are very easy to change:
1. Turn the power supply off, disconnect it from the wall, and disconnect the
6-pin cable from the microphone.
2. Using a philips screwdriver, remove the two philips screws on the mic body
that hold it to the base of the microphone.
3. Gently, gently pull the base of the mic out from inside the body. The guts of
the mic will come out with it.
4. When you’ve pulled the insides all the way out (be VERY careful not to touch
the delicate capsule!), you’ll clearly see the tube. (hint: it’s the glass bottle with
some metal and no air inside it.)
5. Gently grasp the tube between your thumb and forengers, and wiggle it out
of the socket.
6. Taking care to align the pins properly, insert the new tube into the socket,
and repeat these steps (again, CAREFULLY) to return the guts to the inside of
the mic. Make sure to properly tighten the screws at the base for a good chassis
ground connection!
For additional information, contact our Service Department:
www.manley.com/service.php
TROUBLESHOOTING
8
STEREO GOLD ADDENDUM
4-pin power connector
Power Supply: Instead of a six-pin
power/audio connector, the Stereo
Gold mic’s PSU holds merely a 4-pin
power connector. When connecting
the included cable, ensure each of the
pins are oriented correctly. (The cable
should screw on easily if the tab is
lined up within the connector.)
MIC BASE
6-pin audio connector
PSU
INCLUDED Y-CABLE
XLR Male connectors
(out to micpreamps)
1
2
6
5
4
3
Pin Out:
1. “Rotate” capsule Pin 2 (+)
2. “Rotate” capsule Pin 3 (-)
3. (GROUND)
4. “Fixed” capsule Pin 3 (-)
5. “Fixed” capsule Pin 2 (+)
6. (GROUND)
FIXED
ROTATE
9
SPECIFICATIONS
REFERENCE GOLD SERIES
CAPSULE TYPE: DUAL LARGE DIAPHRAGM CAPACITOR
POLAR PATTERNS: CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE (omni through
cardioid through Figure 8)
DIAPHRAGM SIZE: 1 INCH; 1.25 INCH OVERALL
DIAPHRAGM THICKNESS: 5 MICRON; GOLD SPUTTERED
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10 HZ to 30 KHZ, AMPLIFIER to 60 KHZ
MAXIMUM INPUT SPL: 150 dB SPL AT CAPSULE
SENSITIVITY: 19mV/Pa
AMPLIFIER TYPE: 2 TRIODE GAIN BLOCK LO Z OUTPUT
ACTIVE COMPONENTS: (1) 12AT7 TUBE (2 for STEREO MICS)
OUTPUT TYPE : TRANSFORMER COUPLED
OUTPUT POLARITY: BALANCED XLR, PIN 2 HOT, PIN 3 LOW
AMPLIFIER DISTORTION: LESS THAN .05 %
AMPLIFIER NOISE: TYPICALLY -120 dB EIN (TUBE DEPENDENT)
BODY: 24 KARAT GOLD OVER MACHINED BRASS
REFERENCE CARDIOID
CAPSULE TYPE: CENTER-FIXED LG. DIAPHRAGM CAPACITOR
POLAR PATTERN: FIXED CARDIOID
DIAPHRAGM SIZE: 1 INCH; 1.25 INCH OVERALL
DIAPHRAGM THICKNESS: 6 MICRON; GOLD-SPUTTERED
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 10 HZ to 30KHZ
MAXIMUM INPUT SPL: 150 dB SPL AT CAPSULE
SENSITIVITY: 17mV/Pa
AMPLIFIER TYPE: 2 TRIODE GAIN BLOCK LO Z OUTPUT
ACTIVE COMPONENTS: (1) 12AT7 TUBE
OUTPUT TYPE: TRANSFORMER COUPLED
OUTPUT POLARITY: BALANCED XLR, PIN 2 HOT, PIN 3 LOW
AMPLIFIER DISTORTION: LESS THAN .05%
AMPLIFIER NOISE: TYPICALLY -120dB EIN (TUBE-DEPENDENT)
BODY: BLACK ANODIZED ALUMINUM
POWER SPECS (all models)
POWER CONSUMPTION: 8.4 watts (REFCARD/REFGOLD)
100V and 120V operation: 250mA SLO-BLO fuse
220-240V operation: 125mA SLO-BLO fuse
***Fuses for ALL VOLTAGES are 5x20mm GDC packaged fuses.***
10
VOLTAGE CONVERSION
All servicing described below should be referred to a qualied technician.
1. Unplug PSU from wall and disconnect microphone cable(s). Let sit for at least
15 minutes to let the capacitors discharge.
2. Remove PSU cover, held in place by 4 x philips screws.
3. Observe the jumpers located on PCB0718B, and the accompanying diagram
printed on the PCB itself.
4. For 100V: solder jumpers W2, W3, W6
For 120V: solder jumpers W1, W4, W6
For 220/230V: solder jumpers W2, W5
For 240V: solder jumpers W1, W5
Example 1: The board below is set for 120V operation:
Example 2: The board below is set for 220/230V operation:
PCB0718B
W4 W1
W2
W5
W6
5. BE SURE TO CHANGE THE FUSE TO THE APPROPRIATE VALUE
BEFORE USING THE MICROPHONE:
100-120V: 250mA SLO-BLO
220-240V: 125mA SLO-BLO
PCB0718B
W4 W1
W2
W5
W6
11
Loading...