Well, obviously, this microphone is a bit different from others out there and requires a little bit more care than others. Just a little bit.

 

The best way to think about caring for your mic, is to treat it like you would a violin. Keep it in a humidity controlled environment; between 35% to 55% humidity. This would apply to all microphones outside of dynamics. If you cannot control the humidity in your studio (which you should be doing if you keep instruments in the studio), always keep the mic in its case. The case is a quality water tight case with a vent for changes in pressure. If you live in an extremely humid environment, place some desiccant in the case with the mic. A couple of small packets should do the trick. If you get static shocks every time you touch a door knob, you need a humidifier.

 

Just like a violin, DON’T DROP IT! It does not like to be dropped. Having lived with these microphones for some time now, they are surprisingly durable.

 

Unlike a violin, which is fine with you blowing on it. Do not blow into the microphone. There is only 1 screen and some incredibly acoustically transparent mesh protecting the ribbon element. The ribbon could be damaged or require repair if you blow into this microphone too hard.

 

Speaking of repairs, I have 2 kids now, and for some weird reason their instinct is to blow into microphones. Why do they do this? I have no earthly idea, but they do. Each microphone comes with 1 free ribbon replacement within the first 5 years in case something like this happens to you. You only need to pay shipping to and from. I will replace the ribbon as quickly as possible and get the mic back to you promptly.

 

To further avoid the need for a repair, always use the provided sock to cover the mic when not in use, or store it in the provided storage case. The sock should prevent gusts of wind from something like a slammed door and will help to keep dust out. Sadly, the sock does make the microphone look like a Guantanamo Bay prisoner......

 

If you travel with the microphone. Use the case provided and close the vent. When you reach your destination, make sure to crack the vent open slowly and let it acclimate to the new environment. If the mic has been sitting in freezing/cold temperatures such as in the luggage area of a bus or plane, allow a couple of hours for it to reach something close to room temp prior to opening the valve to avoid condensation on the metal components of the mic.

 

Scratches and scuffs. The Cocobolo mic uses no finish other than the natural oils within the wood. It is hand sanded and highly polished/buffed to achieve the surface finish. The other mics only use hand rubbed tung oil. Tung oil can be found at most specialty woodworking shops. I prefer Wood River Tung Oil. Please do not use nail polish, unless you really like the look…

 

Apon request prior to ordering, I can also finish the mics with a satin finish that provides UV protection.