Colossal Fine Art, Asian, & Antiques - April Day 2
Sun, Apr 19, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 2120
(2) Vintage Altec 639B "Birdcage" Microphones
Estimate: $800 - $1,200
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $10 |
| $100 | $25 |
| $250 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,500 | $250 |
| $7,500 | $500 |
| $20,000 | $1,000 |
| $50,000 | $2,500 |
| $100,000 | $5,000 |
| $250,000 | $10,000 |
(2) Vintage Altec 639B "Birdcage" Microphones. Two vintage microphones, including a dark ribbon-style microphone mounted on a desk stand and a second bullet-shaped "birdcage" model resting horizontally beside it.
Sizes: 6 x 6 x 16 1/2 in. 4 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 9 1/2 in.
The Altec 639B Birdcage Microphone is a classic dual-element microphone introduced in the mid-20th century by Altec Lansing, prized for its distinctive “birdcage” grille design and versatile performance. It combines both ribbon and dynamic elements within a single housing, allowing engineers to switch between or blend tonal characteristics, making it especially useful for broadcast, film, and early studio recording applications. Known for its smooth, natural sound and strong presence, the 639B became widely used in radio and television studios during the 1940s and 1950s, and it remains a sought-after collector’s item and functional vintage microphone among audio enthusiasts today.
Condition
All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.
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6 x 6 x 16 1/2 in.