I have a 1970 catalog with RE-20 listed. I think they were available a few years before that, but not as early as 1963 (I don't have catalogs inbetween these years).
Models using some of the ideas/patents included in the RE-20 were available earlier. The model 668 (expensive!) used a similar continuously-variable constant-D system (proximity-effect reduced cardioid) and the casting is similar (smaller). Electrically/feature-wise the newer RE-27 is a closer match to the 668 with plug-programmable EQ in-mic.
Both RE-20 and RE-27 are current product from E-V. Theory of operation for RE-20 is extensively explained in the 1974 microphone book by Burroughs.
Karl
how have i never thought about finding old catalogs to look through? thats going to help. what does an old re-20 sound like compared to a newer one other than the obvious?
What are you looking for? What do you want to spend? If I bought an old mic it'd be an RCA 44 or 77. :D
Mike
i've always wanted to buy one of those but ive always been afraid that my hope for it sounding exactly how it looks will be crushed. tell me i'm wrong?