The Professional's Source Since 1973
  • Help
Ask Our Experts800.606.6969
Hello, Log InAccount & Orders

Join Bild Expo 2025 - Presented by B&H

Video Chat with a Pro Audio Expert - Live

Manley Labs Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone

BH #MAREFCARD • MFR #REFCARD
Print
Manley Labs Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone
Key Features
  • Modern Tube Vocal Microphone
  • Cardioid Polar Pattern
  • Open Weave Stainless-Steel Grille
  • Hand-Wound Output Transformer
The Manley Labs Reference Cardioid (commonly known as REF-C) is a large-diaphragm tube microphone offering a wide, 10 Hz to 30 kHz frequency response and accurate transient performance without coloration or any perceivable sonic signature. The rich tonal balance and liquid character make this center-fixed cardioid mic an excellent choice for obtaining a very forward, immediate sound when recording acoustic guitars, drum overheads, saxophones, and especially pop vocals and voiceovers—with a "finished" sound right out of the box.
More Details
In Stock
Free Expedited Shipping
Protect Your Gear
Add a protection plan from $439.99

Business Financing Options Available

Ask an Expert
800.606.6969

Manley Labs REFCARD Overview

The Manley Labs Reference Cardioid (commonly known as REF-C) is a large-diaphragm tube microphone offering a wide, 10 Hz to 30 kHz frequency response and accurate transient performance without coloration or any perceivable sonic signature. The rich tonal balance and liquid character make this center-fixed cardioid mic an excellent choice for obtaining a very forward, immediate sound when recording acoustic guitars, drum overheads, saxophones, and especially pop vocals and voiceovers—with a "finished" sound right out of the box.

The Reference Cardioid features a 1" gold-sputtered diaphragm that is 6 microns thick based on the vintage U47. It has the ability to withstand sound pressure levels up to 150 dB. The open-weave stainless steel grille allows the capsule to capture signals with zero-loss acoustical transmission, which translates to less dampening of high-frequency content.

The electronics of the Reference Cardioid include two triodes in cascade forming an entire gain-block. The dual-triode 12AX7 tube is easily obtainable and was chosen for its high gain and low noise properties. The audio signal and power connect from the microphone to the filtered B+ power supply via a single 30', 6-pin XLR cable. The audio output exits the power supply via 3-pin XLR through a custom-wound output transformer, which employs nickel laminations and "humbucking" bi-filar windings, all enclosed in mu-metal.

The REF-C features a proprietary suspension system that is attached to the black & red anodized casing. The capsule itself is mounted to a neoprene-rubber shockmount to prevent unwanted vibrations from being picked up by the diaphragm. Handmade in the USA, the microphone ships with a leather capsule cover, locking carrying case, and IEC power cable.

REF-C Modern Tube Vocal Microphone
1" diaphragm
Open weave stainless steel grille for zero-loss acoustical transmission
Neoprene-rubber shockmount
All-tube design with 12AX7 dual triode
-10 dB pad
150 dB maximum SPL
Filtered B+, regulated heater voltages
30' 6-pin XLR power cable
Hand-wound output transformer with nickel laminations and mu-metal casing
Precision suspension system
Leather capsule protector
Locking carrying case
UPC: 890833000298

Manley Labs REFCARD Specs

Key Specs
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Controls
Pad
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 30 kHz
Maximum SPL
150 dB
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
External PSU
Microphone
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Diaphragm
1" / 25.4 mm
Orientation
Side Address
Controls
Pad
Pad
-10 dB
Circuitry
Tube
Performance
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 30 kHz
Maximum SPL
150 dB
Sensitivity
17 mV/Pa
Equivalent Noise Level
-120 dB
Connectivity
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Cable Length
30' / 9.1 m
Power
Power Sources
External PSU
Operating Voltage
Not Specified by Manufacturer
AC Input Power (PSU)
90 to 250 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
Physical
Color
Black
Dimensions
ø: 4.5 x L: 9.7" / ø: 114.3 x L: 246.38 mm
Weight
1.5 lb / 0.7 kg (Microphone)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
16.45 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
22.4 x 14.8 x 10.2"

Manley Labs REFCARD Reviews

See any errors on this page?
Whatever You Need, We've Got It