Collection of Twelve American Modernist Microphones

a definitive survey of the form, comprising (from left to right):
Western Electric, Model 1D Carbon Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1925, in brass and cast iron
Webster, Carbon Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1930, in chromium-plated brass
Amperite, Model SR80 Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1935, in chromium-plated brass
Rauland, Model W1248 Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1937, in chromium-plated brass and bakelite
RCA, Model 44B Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, designed by John Vassos, 1937, in chromium-plated brass
RCA, Model 77B Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, designed by John Vassos, 1937, in chromium-plated brass and bakelite
Electrovoice, Model 731 Cardyne Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1938, in chromium-plated brass
Altec, Model 639, Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, 1938, in chromium-plated brass
Shure, Model 550 Cardoid Unnidyne Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1939, in chromium-plated brass
American, Model D9 Dynamic Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1939, chromium-plated brass
Turner, Model 101 Dynamic Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1939, in chromium-plated brass
Amperite, Model RBHG Ribbon Microphone and Floor Stand, ca. 1946, in cast and polished aluminum and chromium-plated brass

A superb encyclopedic collection of microphones. Each microphone with the floor stand which was originally designed to accompany the model. Each microphone in original condition with only minor cleaning. All adjust with ease and with minor wear consistent with age. Eight of the microphones are currently functional. The third microphone from the left with some minor oxidation and corrosion to the screen. The sixth microphone from the left with a small chip to the Bakelite, measuring approximately ¼ inch to the reverse. The eighth microphone from the left showing age to the painted base. And the 10th microphone from the left with some minor separation of the fabric from the metal. A unique opportunity to acquire a large assembly of early American microphones in superb condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For additional photographs of this lot, please see pages 6-7.