Ardente Ribbon (unidentified)

This is an early British ribbon microphone by Ardente Acoustic Laboratories, who had addresses in Oxford Street, London and Guildford in Surrey. Ardente were known for making public address equipment as well as hearing aids and speakers. The name 'Ardente' was derived from the company's founder, a Mr R H Dent.

This microphone was designed to be mounted on a stand but also has hooks for use in a suspension ring. This feature suggests that it was made sometime in the 1930s. The chrome plating is excellent with a stylish design and striking logo that appears to based on the letters A and a reversed R. The aluminium slotted grill has faired less well.

The form of the microphone indicates that it was almost certainly a ribbon transducer. Unfortunately our example is missing its motor. It shares some design features with the Shaftesbury RT ribbon microphones, including the slotted grill and tilting mount, although we are unaware of any formal relationship between the two companies.

About Ardente at Graces Guide.

Vintage Microphone World have an Ardente dynamic microphone in their collection.