Reslo CR

MoMics View.

The Reslo CR ribbon microphone was introduced in 1957, using many of the same components the RB model, including the ribbon motor assembly and transformer. This was probably a cost effective way to launch a unidirectional ribbon microphone. We suspect that CR is short for "Cardioid Ribbon" but have not yet seen any documentation to confirm that.

The CR is an end-address microphone with a cast alloy body and the same grill as the RB. The transformer sits in a slot behind the magnets, and the microphone is mounted via a flexible steel chrome-plated gooseneck which terminates in Reslo's proprietary three pin connector. The output wires run down the inside of the gooseneck.

Unlike the RCA BK5 or the Beyerdynamic ribbon microphones, Reslo did not use an acoustic labyrinth behind the ribbon, although perhaps the inside of the gooseneck contributes a little back pressure. In the most part, the CR is unidirectional by virtue of blocking the rear of the ribbon with the transformer. The vents at either side of the microphone give the CR some hypercardioid character.

A Reslo CR ribbon microphone appears on the cover of the record "Shakin Up a Storm" by Gene Vincent, released in 1964

In 1967 the CR was replaced by the CR2, which was essentially the same microphone but with a more streamlined body and a removable gooseneck.

Frequency response above 1000 Hz and below 200 Hz closely approximates to model RB ; between 400 and 800 Hz. it is not quite so smooth, but remains entirely suited to high class usage with an output level bettering any other ribbon microphone near its price range.

The RESLO pre-set detachable ribbon is retained with improvement in rigidity and clamping, service is further simplified.

Theent finish is in baked polychromatic grey enamel with satin chrome front and fittings.

A flexible arm attaches to the standard 3-contact plug.

Standard models are :-

CR-L 30/50 ohms.

CR-M 250 and 600 ohms.

CR-H 30/50 ohms and high impedance,

lmpedance change with dual instruments is effected by use of two cables, one only at choice is supplied inclusive. Cables are suited to the purpose, thus coaxial for high impedance and balanced line for others. Cables are colour coded with a dot at plug centre thus :

30/50 ohms White; 250 Green; 600 Blue; High impedance Red

View the Reslo CR product information sheet.

A timeline of Reslo microphones at the Xaudia blog