The LOMO 19a4 is a tube small diaphragm condenser manufactured in small quantities by the LOMO plant from 1963 - 1968. It is estimated that approximately 300-400 19a4s were produced in that time. The microphone uses the 6S6B subminiature tube, which is also used in the 19a10, 19a13, 19a14, and 19a18 microphones, and is the Soviet equivalent of the AC701K. It can be deduced by looking at it that the microphone was inspired by the Schoeps 221b, and like the 221b has a rotating capsule head that allows the user to cover or open the capsule’s rear vents, thereby changing the mic’s polar pattern from cardioid (vented) to omni (closed). And while we have not compared the two mics side-by-side, the 19a4 has a similar rich and velvety sound with a slightly rounded top end. Despite being somewhat dark sounding, it has excellent transient response and is still able to capture incredible detail without any harshness or midrange emphasis making it both natural and euphonic at the same time. This makes it a fantastic choice for room mics, acoustic guitars, overheads, guitar amps, and bowed instruments.
