HMV / EMI 2351E / 2350H
Manufacturer:
HMV / EMIModel:
2351E / 2350HCountry of Manufacture:
United KingdomMicrophone Type:
RibbonPolar Pattern:
Figure 8Production Start Year:
1949Rarity:
3
Audio Recordings:
Speech (male) recorded with an HMV ribbon microphone.
Multiple quality options available
Nylon string guitar recorded with an HMV ribbon microphone.
Multiple quality options available
Frequency Response:
Microphone History:
Made in Hayes, Middlesex by EMI, and marketed under both the EMI and His Master's Voice (HMV) brands, these microphones are essentially identical in design and construction, with differences primarily in branding and mounting options.
The H.M.V. Ribbon Microphone is a precision instrument designed to exacting professional standards. For recording or sound reproduction it is capable of faithfully and naturally translating the complex sound waves of a full orchestra, speech or other sounds into equivalent and accurate electrical impulses necessary for high fidelity work. This microphone will respond perfectly to the softer shades and overtones of instruments and voices and when used under condions of high sound intensity is particularly free from distortion. Reference to the specification shows its excellent electrical characteristics.
MoMics note: These are beautifully made with an intricate motor that appears to be designed with the intention of maximising the high frequnecy response. However, in our experience these mics sound rather dark and can even seem muddy if they are not connected correctly to the next amplification stage. They have a very low impedance and greatly benefit from a matching transformer when used with modern preamps. We have also seen models that have high impedance output transfomers.
Technical Description:
The EMI 2350E model was intended for stand or table use, while the 2351E variant featured hooks for suspension boom or floor stand mounting. These microphones were also sold under the HMV brand, with the 2350H and 2351H models corresponding to the EMI versions.
Manufacturer Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 10 kH
- Sensitivity: -85 dB on 1 mW/BAR into 20 ohms
- Output Impedance: 20 ohms
Model 2350H has the stirrup drilled for fixing the microphone to table or floor stands. Model 2351H has two hooks fitted to the stirrup so that the microphone may be suspended from a boom for film or television sound recording.
