The Aiwa VM17S was the second iteration of Japan's far-superior version of the RCA 77DX from the 1970's. This version introduced a new body and grill, with a superior acoustic chamber thumbwheel system. The Compared to RCA 77 mics, the Aiwa VM17S better attention to build quality, consistency, and overall sound.
The Aiwa VM17S is one the best ribbon mics we've ever heard. Compared to the earlier VM17, the "S" has a thinner ribbon and a more extended top end. As with most Japanese ribbons, it has a 5-position low roll-off switch at the bottom of the mic.
As with all 77D-style microphones, this mic sounds best in its unobstructed bi-directional pickup pattern, with full but balanced low-end, a meaty midrange, and remarkably smooth and extended top-end.
This VM17S has been fully serviced, cleaned, and re-ribboned by Cole Suddarth at Cole Picks Vintage and comes with its beautiful original suitcase, instructional manual, and original frequency response chart.
