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Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone

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$3,199.00 to $3,499.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (7)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

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30 wishlisted

51 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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4.5 (51)

$3,499.00

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5.0 (1)

$3,499.00

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5.0 (13)

$3,499.00

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5.0 (18)

$3,250.02 10 available New

$2,043.78 23 available Used

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5.0 (2)

$3,499.00

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5.0 (3)

$3,199.00

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$3,499.00

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4.8 (32)

$3,399.00

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5.0 (10)

$3,499.00

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Average Price: $3,289

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone. This studio-grade mic shares the same electronic attributes as the Gold Reference Series but distinguishes itself with a fixed cardioid-only capsule and a thicker gauge (6 micron) gold-sputtered diaphragm. It's known for its rich tonal balance and liquid character, making it a favorite for recording instruments like guitars, drum overheads, and saxophone. Yet, where this mic truly shines is in vocal recordings. If you're looking for the mic that brought life to the hits of Britney Spears, N'Sync, and The Backstreet Boys, you've found it.

Its sound quality is reminiscent of the vintage European tube mics, such as the revered U47, when they were brand new. If your current mic is leaving you leaning heavily on compressors or boosting 5K or 10K for a bit more impact, the Reference Cardioid could be just the solution you're seeking. It offers the clean, intimate sound that has become the hallmark of the Manley brand.

Key Features:

Cardioid-only capsule
All-Tube Triode Design with 12AX7
-10 dB Pad switchable
Frequency range: 10 Hz - 30 kHz
Sensitivity: 17 mV/Pa
Noise typically -120 dB ON
Peak SPL: 150dB
Output Impedance: 200 O
Includes supply module

Owner's manual

Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone User Manual

Product specs

Microphone Type	Tube Condenser
Mono/Stereo	Mono
Polar Pattern	Cardioid
Diaphragm Size	0.98" (25mm)
Frequency Response	10Hz-30kHz
Max SPL	150dB SPL
Output Impedance	200 ohms
Sensitivity	17mV/Pa
Pads	-10dB
Tube	12AT7 vacuum tube
Power Source	Custom-designed outboard switched-mode power supply
Connector	7-pin XLR (mic), 3-pin XLR (power supply)
Weight	2.25 lbs.
Included Accessories	Hardshell Case, Custom Suspension, Mic Cable, Capsule Cover

FAQs

What is the primary application of the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone?: The Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone is primarily designed for studio recording, excelling in capturing vocals with warmth and clarity, making it a favorite for professional vocal recordings.
What polar pattern does the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone use?: This microphone utilizes a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for isolating the sound source directly in front of the mic while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear.
How does the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone handle high sound pressure levels?: The Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone can handle a maximum sound pressure level of 150dB SPL, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources without distortion.
What type of tube does the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone use?: This microphone is equipped with a 12AT7 vacuum tube, contributing to its rich, warm sound characteristic that is highly sought after in studio recordings.
What is the frequency response range of the Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone?: The Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone has a frequency response range of 10Hz to 30kHz, allowing it to capture a wide spectrum of audio frequencies with precision.

Videos

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A Dude Named Miguel

Manley Reference Cardioid Vs Neumann U87 Ai

A Dude Named Miguel

Manley Reference Cardioid Review / Test (vs. U67, LCT1040, AT2020, NW700)

Podcastage

Manley Reference Cardioid Microphone In Action

Doctor Mix

Manley Reference Cardioid Mic | Microphone | Vintage King

Vintage King

Manley Reference Cardioid Demo & Review

Alec Brits

Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone Review

Brent Allen Hagel

Is This Mic REALLY That Good?? | Manley Reference Cardioid | MMP:EP47

Carl Moore Music

Manley Reference Cardioid Mic Review

A Dude Named Miguel

Reviews

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PROS

High-end clarity is unparalleled, ideal for achieving a radio-ready sound
Top choice for rap and pop vocals, prevalent in professional studios
Simplifies the recording process, reducing reliance on post-processing
Excellent for both live and studio recording applications
Provides a warm, smooth, and detailed sound profile
Recognized for its presence, with sweet highs and smooth lows
Works well with various musical genres, from country to metal
Compatible with different preamps, offering versatile sound characteristics
Reputed to outperform other high-end mics like the Neumann U87
Enhanced with a high voltage power supply for improved performance

CONS

Some users report it can sound harsh or sibilant with certain voices
May exhibit a slight harshness or "laser beam" effect in the 10-12k range
Swivel nut and assembly can be tight and challenging to adjust
Has a distinct sound that may not suit all recording or musical styles
Requires a high-quality preamp for optimal smoothness and warmth

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone.

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Ensure the mic’s power supply is connected to the wall outlet; buzzing can occur if not properly powered.
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Replacing tubes can resolve buzzing; tubes wear down after approximately 5000 hours and are easy to replace.
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Build quality

0 0

Loose housing can cause buzzing; check if the mic’s housing is tightly secured.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Previous owner used a Telefunken tube; swapping back to the original tube didn't resolve buzzing, suggesting a different issue.
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Features and functionality

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The Manley Reference Cardioid is noted for its professional aesthetic, which can enhance client perception in studio settings.
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Value and pricing

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The Manley Reference Cardioid typically retails for around $2800 new, but used options might be available closer to a $2000 budget.
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Use cases and applications

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It's considered versatile, performing well across various vocal styles and singers, making it a step up from many sub-$2k mics.
Source

Comparisons

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Compared to the Vanguard V13, the Manley Reference offers a professional look and feel, important for client impressions.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone

mixonline.com

The Manley Reference Cardioid Tube Microphone impresses with its robust build and distinctive sound. Notably, its punchy and booming kick drum capture stands out, offering a smooth top and solid mids. The mic's unique bottom end and ability to maintain its character under compression make it a reliable choice for various applications. While its $2,700 price tag may deter budget-conscious musicians, its performance justifies the investment for those seeking top-notch audio quality.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

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