Neumann U87 Early Prototype Introductory Edition

This is an exceedingly rare 1st version of the Neumann U87. Notice that the capsule clamping ring is not brass but a brown fiber-resin material, and the capsule holder is the original octagonal shape. But most importantly is the early transformer mounted parallel to the length of the mic. We have purchased 100's of these before Wunder Audio, during Misty Hill Audio, and have never seen this early version. We just had this on the test bench at Wunder Audio and it performs to spec and sounds extraordinary rich. Vintage-wise this is a cool mic but is meant to be used! ****Photo #5 shows a typical late 1960's U87 (on the right) The mic on the left mic in photo#5 is the one we are listing, and the mic on the right is a typical late 1960's U87. Notice the orientation/ direction of the large transformer in the middle of the circuit board on the left mic, this is the rare prototypical feature. Also there is an extra round circuit board above the transformer that is not in the regular production run. The battery compartment on the other side is different as well, as just about everything inside the mic. The early RED WIMA caps are desirable as well.